The SUV Making Double Waves in Britain: Sales Champ Twice Over in 2025

In the midst of the hybrid surge, Kia’s Sportage is disrupting the UK automotive sector, which is largely ruled by luxury marques.

With the decline in subsidies for electric vehicles, consumers' interest has returned to hybrid models. Amidst this shift, the Sportage has emerged as the leader in UK sales charts not once but twice, leaving a notable mark in the market.

The Sportage Surpasses All, Claims Top Sales Position in the UK Yet Again

The figures published by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) on May 10 reveal that Kia's compact SUV, the Sportage, achieved 3,514 unit sales in April, placing it at the summit for monthly sales. It previously held this position back in January as well.

Between January and April 2025, the total number of units sold amounted to 16,380, just slightly below Ford’s Puma model, which managed to sell 18,241 units. In terms of brand performance for the previous month in the UK market, Kia secured the second spot with 8,320 units sold, coming right after Volkswagen. Additionally, an impressive 40% of these sales were attributed specifically to their Sportage model.

Hybrid Capitalizes on Challenges Facing Electric Vehicles

Lately, the demand for electric vehicles in Europe has decreased because of lower subsidies. Consequently, hybrids and plug-in hybrids are becoming more popular choices, and the Sportage has effectively capitalized on this trend.

The Sportage offered in Europe comes equipped with multiple engine types such as gasoline, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid versions. Notably, the hybrid variant is quite favored, making up more than 60 percent of all Sportage sales in the UK.

The Sportage was also recognized at the esteemed UK automotive awards event, What Car Awards, claiming victory in the Family SUV category for three consecutive years starting from 2023.

A Balance of Design and Practicality

The Sportage’s design also appeals to European consumers. Its signature tiger-nose grille and sharp daytime running lights create a bold first impression.

The geometric patterns on the wheels, along with the LED taillights and the broad rear bumper, enhance both the fashionable look and robust feel of the vehicle.

Inside, a 12.3-inch digital dashboard and navigational system are integrated into a curved screen, providing a cutting-edge appearance. Additionally, the vehicle features heated and cooled seating for every occupant, individual temperature settings, and an air purification system.

When it comes to livability, it scores very well. The generous interior space, boasting an overall length of 4,685 mm and a wheelbase measuring 2,755 mm, guarantees a comfy experience for lengthy journeys.

Performance, Efficiency, and Ease of Use Combined

The Sportage comes equipped with a 1.6-liter turbocharged petrol engine combined with an electric motor, producing a total power output of 230 horsepower along with a peak torque of 35.7 kg·m. In terms of fuel economy, the 2WD variant achieves up to 16.3 km per liter, whereas the 4WD model offers around 15.2 km per liter.

The vehicle comes with advanced driver assistance features such as highway driving assist, navigational adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping aid, all designed to minimize weariness during extended trips.

Upscale trim levels come equipped with advanced amenities like fingerprint identification, a digital key system, and an intelligent automatic rear door. Additionally, Kia secured the number four spot in total sales across all manufacturers within the British automotive industry for the year 2024. Looking ahead to 2025, the brand plans to cement its high-end status through a comprehensive range of models encompassing the Sportage, Picanto, Ceed, EV6, and EV9.