Powerful and Efficient Performance
Under the hood, the 2026 Kia Sportage gets a responsive 2.5-liter inline-four-cylinder engine rated at 187 horsepower. This capable four-cylinder powerplant features direct injection and continuously variable valve timing to optimize output and efficiency. When paired with the smooth-shifting eight-speed automatic transmission, the Sportage delivers a refined driving experience whether you're navigating city streets in downtown Santa Barbara or cruising along the freeway.
Sportage shoppers in Lompoc and San Luis Obispo will have their choice of front-wheel drive or available all-wheel drive to tailor the SUV's performance to their needs. FWD models showcase excellent fuel economy, with EPA-estimated ratings of 25 mpg city, 32 mpg highway, and 28 mpg combined. Upgrading to AWD provides enhanced traction and control in inclement weather or on uneven surfaces while still maintaining competitive fuel efficiency numbers. Ventura drivers who opt for an all-wheel drive equipped Sportage can expect 23 mpg in the city, 27 mpg on the highway, and 25 mpg combined.
Bold Exterior and Spacious, Well-Appointed Interior
The 2026 Kia Sportage makes a striking first impression with its dynamic exterior design. The SUV's sleek lines and sculpted contours convey a sense of athleticism and forward motion, while available LED lighting and a range of bold wheel designs, from 17-inch alloys on the LX to 19-inch gloss black alloys on the SX-Prestige, add visual interest from every angle. Roof rails come standard across all trims, providing flexibility to carry extra gear for your trips to the beach or mountains.
Inside the cabin, the new Sportage welcomes up to five passengers with a thoughtfully configured interior. Cloth upholstery comes standard on the LX, while all other trims receive durable and easy-to-clean premium leatherette seating surfaces. Driver and passengers alike will appreciate comfort and convenience features like the standard dual-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats (standard on EX and above), and available ventilated front seats (SX-Prestige and X-Pro Prestige). For those seeking an extra touch of luxury, the EX trim's optional Premium Package adds a panoramic sunroof to let in ample natural light and fresh air on pleasant drives through Paso Robles wine country.
Intuitive Technology and Premium Audio Options
The 2026 Sportage aims to keep you connected, informed, and entertained throughout your journeys in the Santa Maria region. Even the base LX trim comes generously appointed with a user-friendly 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system featuring wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration, allowing you to easily access your music, apps, and contacts on the go. Moving up to the EX trim and above brings a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen display with onboard navigation to help you find your way.
Audiophiles in Santa Barbara will want to consider the available Harman Kardon premium sound system, included on the SX, SX-Prestige, X-Pro, and X-Pro Prestige trims. This high-end audio setup delivers 400 watts of power through eight speakers, transforming the Sportage's cabin into a mobile concert hall. Whether streaming your favorite playlists or enjoying your music library, you'll be treated to immersive, studio-quality sound.
Advanced Driver Assistance and Safety Features
The 2026 Kia Sportage prioritizes your peace of mind with a robust suite of Kia Drive Wise driver assistance technologies and safety systems. All trims come standard with essential features like Forward Collision Avoidance-Assist with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Keeping Assist, Lane Following Assist, Driver Attention Warning, and High Beam Assist. Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist and Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist are included on EX models and above, while the range-topping SX-Prestige and X-Pro Prestige add Parking Distance Warning and Surround View Monitor for effortless maneuvering in tight spaces around Lompoc.
Drivers in California's Central Coast region have an exciting new option to look forward to in the compact SUV segment-the 2026 Kia Sportage. Slated to arrive at Kia Santa Maria in the near future, the Sportage combines bold styling, impressive versatility, and cutting-edge technology to elevate your daily drives and weekend adventures alike. With seven well-equipped trims to choose from, including the LX, EX, SX, SX-Prestige, X-Line, X-Pro, and X-Pro Prestige, there's a 2026 Sportage to suit a wide range of preferences and lifestyles in the Santa Maria area.
Reserve Your 2026 Kia Sportage at Kia Santa Maria Today
With its head-turning design, well-appointed interior, advanced technology, and comprehensive safety features, the 2026 Kia Sportage is poised to make a splash in the compact SUV segment when it arrives at Kia Santa Maria later this year. Kia Santa Maria serves customers throughout the Central Coast, including San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, Ventura, and Paso Robles. If you're eager to be among the first to experience the all-new Sportage for yourself, we invite you to contact our friendly sales team using the inquiry form on this page. As your trusted Kia dealer in Santa Maria, we'll be happy to provide additional information and work with you to reserve your ideal 2026 Sportage configuration.
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Kia Santa Maria
2175 S. Bradley Road
Santa Maria, CA 93455
- Sales: (805) 268-7980
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