If you’re shopping for a medium SUV and still want the option of diesel power, your choices just became very limited. The 2025 Kia Sportage stands alone as Australia’s last mainstream medium SUV offering a diesel engine option, making it a unique proposition in an increasingly electrified market.
Why the Diesel Sportage Matters to Australian Families
While other manufacturers have abandoned diesel in the medium SUV segment, Kia has listened to Australian customers who still value diesel’s benefits. The numbers speak volumes – diesel variants account for approximately 36% of all Sportage sales in 2025, with the GT-Line diesel being the most popular model in the entire range.
This popularity isn’t surprising when you consider what diesel offers families: excellent fuel economy for long road trips, impressive towing capacity for caravans and boats, and the driving range that many Australian families need for their lifestyle.
Engine Options That Actually Make Sense
The refreshed Sportage lineup offers four distinct powertrain options to suit different driving needs:
| Engine Type | Power/Torque | Transmission | Drive |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2.0L Petrol | 115kW/192Nm | 6-speed auto | FWD only |
| 1.6L Turbo Petrol | 132kW/265Nm | 8-speed auto | AWD only |
| 1.6L Hybrid | 172kW/367Nm | 6-speed auto | FWD/AWD |
| 2.0L Turbo Diesel | 137kW/416Nm | 8-speed auto | AWD only |
The diesel engine delivers that crucial low-end torque that makes towing feel effortless and provides the kind of real-world fuel economy that actually matches the official figures.
What’s New for 2025
The facelifted Sportage brings meaningful improvements that address previous owner feedback. The updated model features improved sound insulation, making highway cruising quieter and more refined. The suspension has been retuned specifically for Australian road conditions, promising better ride comfort without sacrificing handling.
Inside, you’ll find Kia’s latest infotainment system with over-the-air updates, wireless smartphone connectivity, and a more intuitive interface. The dual 12.3-inch display setup remains, but the software is faster and more responsive.
Design That Doesn’t Shout for Attention
The exterior updates are subtle but effective. New LED lighting signatures help modernize the appearance, while revised bumpers and fresh alloy wheel designs keep the Sportage looking contemporary without being overly flashy. This approach suits families who want a vehicle that looks good without drawing unwanted attention.
The interior maintains the practical focus that makes the Sportage work for real families. Rear seat space remains generous, and the boot capacity ranges from 543 litres to 1,872 litres with seats folded – perfect for everything from weekly shopping to camping gear.
Technology That Actually Helps
The 2025 Sportage includes safety features that genuinely make driving easier and safer. The highway driving assist system reduces fatigue on long trips, while the parking assistance features help in tight urban spaces. These aren’t just marketing features – they solve real problems that Australian drivers face daily.
The Reality of Diesel’s Future
While the New Vehicle Efficiency Standard looms over the industry, Kia Australia has committed to keeping the diesel option for at least the next couple of years. The penalties for diesel vehicles will be offset by credits from Kia’s growing electric vehicle lineup, including the upcoming EV5 and EV3 models.
This gives families who rely on diesel’s benefits time to transition at their own pace, rather than being forced into alternatives that might not suit their specific needs.
Pricing and Availability
The 2025 Sportage is expected to arrive in Australian dealerships during the first half of 2025. While official pricing hasn’t been announced, expect the diesel variants to remain competitively positioned within the medium SUV segment.
Who Should Consider the Diesel Sportage?
This vehicle makes particular sense for:
- Families who regularly tow caravans, boats, or trailers
- Those who frequently drive long distances
- Buyers who prioritize fuel economy over acceleration
- Anyone wanting AWD capability without hybrid complexity
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long will Kia continue offering the diesel engine?
A: Kia Australia has committed to keeping the diesel option for at least the next couple of years, monitoring market demand and regulatory changes.
Q: Is the diesel Sportage reliable for long-term ownership?
A: Kia’s 7-year unlimited kilometer warranty provides peace of mind, and the diesel engine is proven technology with a good reliability record.
Q: How does fuel economy compare to hybrid alternatives?
A: The diesel typically delivers excellent real-world economy, especially on highway driving and when towing, often matching or exceeding hybrid efficiency in these conditions.
