The Return of the King: Kia Sportage 5th Gen L (Hybrid & Petrol) – Can it Dominate Pakistan’s SUV Market Again?
Vibe Check: Futuristic Design Meets Game-Changing Efficiency
The 5th Generation Sportage L (Long Wheelbase) arrives with a bold, aggressive design and, crucially, a Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) option. This is a complete revolution, bringing the popular crossover up to global standards of luxury, technology, and segment-leading fuel economy. It is the new benchmark for the locally assembled crossover segment.
1. Key Specifications & Features (The Dual-Powertrain Advantage)
The new Sportage L is offered in three variants: Alpha (Base), FWD (Mid), and HEV (Flagship), giving buyers a clear choice based on priorities.
| Feature | Sportage L HEV (Hybrid Flagship) | The Vibe for Pakistan |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 1.6L SmartStream T-GDI Hybrid | The HEV offers more power with significantly lower fuel cost. |
| Combined Output | 227 HP / 350 Nm Torque | Thrilling power and performance for an SUV. |
| Fuel Economy (HEV) | 16-20 km/L (Reported) | The HEV’s fuel economy is the biggest reason to choose the flagship. |
| Interior | Panoramic Dual 12.3-inch Curved Integrated Display | The curved screen design makes the interior look truly futuristic. |
Design & Interior (The Digital Revolution)
- Exterior: Features the dramatic “Boomerang” LED DRLs and the aggressive Star Chain Grille Design.
- Premium Comfort (HEV): Includes a Panoramic Sunroof, Heated and Ventilated Seats (a life-saver in summer), and premium interior accents.
- Space: The Long Wheelbase (L) variant ensures superior rear legroom and comfort.
2. Safety & Technology (DriveWise ADAS Suite)
The 5th Gen Sportage brings a comprehensive safety package, with the HEV variant fully equipped with the latest Kia DriveWise (ADAS) features.
- Full ADAS Suite (HEV): Includes Smart Cruise Control, Lane Following/Keeping Assist, and Forward Collision Avoidance.
- Parking Aids (HEV): Features the 360° Surround View Monitor for easy maneuvering.
- Airbags: Equipped with a full complement of 6 Airbags.
3. The Review Buzz: What the Buyers Are Saying
The Good (The Zabardast Points)
- Hybrid is the Hero: The HEV model has changed the value equation by offering massive fuel savings (up to 20 km/L).
- Looks and Luxury: The aggressive exterior and the high-tech, curved digital cockpit place the Sportage HEV in the high-end luxury bracket.
- Space: The Long Wheelbase model addresses previous complaints by providing excellent rear legroom.
The Drawbacks (The Challenging Points)
- Price Hike: The price jump to the new HEV flagship (around PKR 11,599,000) is significant, making it a high-end purchase.
- The Alpha Variant: The base Alpha variant is heavily stripped down, lacking the key ADAS, digital cockpit, and sunroof features that define the new generation.
4. Final Verdict: The Segment Benchmark
The launch of the 5th Generation Kia Sportage L is a defining moment. The Sportage L HEV is the clear choice and the new segment benchmark for locally assembled crossovers.
* Buy it if: You are upgrading and want a major leap in technology, safety, and fuel efficiency. You want the highest feature-set (ventilated seats, ADAS, dual screens) in a CKD vehicle.
* Skip it if: Your budget is strictly limited to the base Alpha variant, which compromises on the technology that makes the 5th generation truly special.
The new Sportage is poised to reclaim its title as the most popular crossover in Pakistan.