The award reinforces the Sportage’s family appeal through its refined ride, versatile cabin and intuitive technology
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Winning an automotive award is a mark of excellence. Winning the same title four years in a row is a testament to a vehicle’s enduring appeal and consistently high standards.
The Kia Sportage has achieved this distinction, having been named ‘Best Family SUV of the Year 2026 by What Car?’ for the fourth consecutive year.
In one of the automotive industry’s most competitive categories, the Sportage demonstrates why a well-rounded driving experience can be just as important as outright performance or an extensive list of features.
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The Balance Between Comfort and Control
One of the Sportage’s defining characteristics is its ability to combine a comfortable ride with confident handling.
According to What Car?’s assessment, the SUV delivers a supple ride at different speeds while remaining composed through corners. This balance helps it avoid the trade-off between comfort and agility that can affect larger, family-oriented vehicles.
It is particularly important for an SUV expected to handle daily commutes, motorway journeys and family trips with equal ease. A comfortable suspension enhances ride comfort, while predictable handling and responsive driving characteristics build confidence behind the wheel.
Designed Around Everyday Life
Beyond its driving dynamics, the Sportage has also been recognised for its thoughtfully designed and practical interior. The cabin accommodates five occupants, with reclining rear seats and an elevated driving position contributing to comfort and everyday usability.
The dashboard features two integrated 12.3-inch displays alongside physical knobs for commonly used functions, including climate control and audio volume. The switchable infotainment and climate control panel further simplifies the dashboard, allowing users to switch between the two functions according to their preferences.
This approach recognises an important principle: technology is most effective when it enhances the driving experience without compromising ease of use.

What Makes the Sportage an Award-Winning Family SUV?
The ‘What Car? Car of the Year Awards’ evaluate vehicles through expert road testing and comparisons with competing models. In the family SUV category, key considerations include driving dynamics, ride comfort, practicality, interior quality and performance
The Sportage stands out for bringing these qualities together. Its comfortable ride and agile handling make it engaging to drive, while its spacious cabin, generous boot space and well-integrated technology support everyday family needs.
The judges’ recognition reflects the Sportage’s well-rounded appeal rather than a single standout feature. Retaining the title for four consecutive years further highlights the model’s consistent performance across the qualities that matter to family SUV buyers.

International Recognition. A New Chapter for Pakistan.
The fifth-generation facelift of the Kia Sportage, introduced in Pakistan by Lucky Motor Corporation on 31 July 2026, builds on a nameplate that has been part of the local automotive market since 2019.
Now available with front-wheel-drive (FWD) and all-wheel-drive (AWD) hybrid powertrains, the latest Sportage combines a 1.6L turbo-hybrid engine delivering 235 hp and 368 Nm of torque with a premium cabin and contemporary technology, bringing an elevated driving experience to Pakistani customers.
For Pakistani consumers, the latest Sportage builds on an established legacy, bringing together international recognition, modern technology, comfort and performance in a new chapter for the nameplate.

Experience the Kia Sportage
Discover a family SUV that brings together turbo-hybrid performance, comfort and everyday practicality. Explore the latest Kia Sportage and find the variant that suits your driving needs.
Visit your nearest Kia dealership or explore the range at Kia Pakistan website here.