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I intended to provide an update on the MY26 in comparison to my prior MY24 Sportage GT-Line S PHEV. Prepare a beverage, as this is an extensive discussion.

Although my PHEV is over two years old, I opted for the MY26 GT-Line S HEV, mainly because the MY26 PHEV is not yet available and my little mileage does not warrant the additional expense. Although it is merely a refresh of the NQ5, there are numerous distinctions from the preceding models. The aesthetics are subjective; however, the MY26 appears more contemporary than its predecessor, primarily due to the headlights (four-stack vertical lights) and the variations in the front and rear bumpers.


The interior features contemporary seating, characterised by white accents on the upper sections and headrests, while the glossy black plastic has been substituted with a textured, non-smudging plastic. The configuration of buttons has been altered; for instance, the drive mode button has been relocated from the central area to a tab on the steering wheel. The wheel is distinctly unusual and is adorned in an elegant cream and black hue. Although it resembles a 1980s Austin Allegro steering wheel, it is rather comfy. The buttons, however, are positioned entirely differently than before.

The HUD is exceptional—likely the most significant feature I missed—and provides extensive information, especially in Highway Drive settings. The comprehensive road markings are displayed in the HUD alongside new safety warnings, including those for schools and curves. When I owned an EV6 its HUD displayed other vehicles as random blobs whereas the MY26 Sportage shows other vehicles as cars, coaches, trucks and trailers. Significantly more contemporary. Indeed, both CarPlay and Android Auto are wireless, and specifically with CarPlay, navigation directions can be transmitted to the driver's display and heads-up display (HUD). I can identify numerous vehicles that allow non-native navigation to be displayed on the heads-up display (HUD). This is an excellent feature. The HUD (on/off, content, brightness, vertical adjustment, and tilt) and dipping mirrors are now integrated into the seat memory.

The adaptive high beam (matrix) lights are significantly superior to those in the preceding Sportage. They are broader, taller, more luminous, and more polished. The new adaptive high beams go seamlessly from low to high, eliminating the presence of blocky lights that previously filled in gaps and smoothly navigate the road. The GTLS headlights consist of four blocks, whereas the GTL and Pure models contain only three. The upper two are dipped beams, while the lower two are high beams. The GTLS is distinctive in that the large DRLs also function as indicators. The GTL and Pure models include a distinct indicator bulb positioned below the headlights, specifically occupying the bulb 4 high beam location from the GTLS. The solitary reversing light positioned in the lower section of the bumper is significantly superior to the two located in the tail lights of my last Sportage. Fortunately, significantly more illumination. Regarding tail lights, although the design remains consistent, the arrangement of the LEDs is entirely distinct and exhibits a dynamic illumination pattern upon activation.

The vehicle, naturally, operates the relatively new ccNC infotainment system. The visual design is somewhat simplistic, particularly the driver's display, and the vibrant weather screen has been eliminated; nonetheless, it is likely that this system will offer greater update capabilities than the previous Gen5W systems. Aside from enhanced graphics for the various options, I cannot ascertain whether it is an improved system.

All of the satin trim has been removed and replaced with glossy black. This aligns more closely with the GTL and GTLS configurations. I previously had glossy black roof rails with satin accents along the doors and a 'Z' form extending to the roof. It has all vanished. The front and rear undertrays, as well as the bumpers, exhibit distinct variations. Indeed, the sole aspect that has yet to appeal to me is the USA-style 'over riders' on both bumpers. The front features fog lights, while the back includes vertical reflectors.

The HEV wheels are now 19 inches and are equipped with Michelin Primacy 235/50 R19 103V tires. I was not fond of the 18-inch rims on the previous HEV due to my disapproval of the bronze hue. The design of the new 19s resembles that of an EV3.

The audio quality appears and sounds consistent with the prior H/K configuration. I am unable to ascertain whether there are any differences. It is likely not. Radio transmission was stable in my region, with no dropouts; yet, the sound quality was identical to the previous broadcast.

The new automatic gearbox operates more smoothly than its predecessor, and the modified engine may produce a little more refined sound.

The regenerative braking is exceptional, offering settings of 1-3 and an automatic mode. Controlled by the paddles while in Eco mode. The vehicle will halt entirely in both 3 and Auto modes. It is nearly equivalent to one-pedal driving. In Sport mode, the paddles function identically to earlier iterations, namely, they facilitate gear shifting.

I apologise for the verbosity; I may have overlooked certain details, but the refresh is markedly distinct from its predecessor, while being merely a refresh.

Thank you for this prompt evaluation; it is quite intriguing. I have recently registered here as I anticipate the arrival of my MY26 GT Line S in the forthcoming weeks.

Is there sufficient space for a space saver in the wheel well? I anticipate needing to remove the foam storage tray for one to fit, but there is nothing else obstructing?

Unlike the MHEV and PHEV, which utilise a 12v battery and components, the HEV is appropriate for a space saver.

I neglected to mention the Digital Key. After configuration (preferably via the app rather than the vehicle), you can utilise your phone and/or watch to lock, unlock, or start the car without the physical keys. I possess an iPhone and an Apple Watch, and their functionality is excellent. The black lock/unlock button on the front door handles has been replaced by a depression that requires covering, eliminating the need for a button to press. When grasping the handle, your thumb partially obscures the sensor, enhancing the whole experience.

It appears you are deriving as much pleasure from your new toy as I am from mine.

Excellent description. However, I believe you will discover that a sensor located on the rear of the door handle is responsible for locking and unlocking.


I have now mastered the remote's forward and backward functions. However, it is exceedingly loud.

Which hue did you select? I anticipated a delay when I purchased a Lunar Silver AWD in September; nonetheless, there were nine AWD Lunar Silver vehicles available in Immingham. It arrived at the dealership at the end of September. I anticipated a delay of 3 to 4 months.

Blue Flame Two-Wheel Drive. I formerly owned a Hyundai in a similar colour and have consistently missed the ease of locating it. Additionally, it is striking with the GTLS black trim. It is located in Immingham.

Pleasant hue. If it is at Immingham, then delivery is forthcoming. Typically, 1 to 2 weeks to your dealer. The dealer often requires a few days to prepare it. Ensure that the tyre pressures are adjusted to the appropriate levels and not maintained at the transportation pressures, which typically range from the 40s to the 50s PSI. For some reason, reducing the tyre pressures is not included in the Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI).

Thank you for the advice.

I envy both of you; I should have remained at the dealership to acquire a MY2026 instead of opting for a MY2025 in June this year, following deception by a dishonest salesman prioritising his own interests over those of the customer.I will acquire a MY2026 sooner rather than later, as it appears there have been numerous enhancements from the MY2025 to the MY2026.

I typically exchange my vehicle every three years and am astonished by the nuanced variations that occur within each three-year interval, as I consistently perform like-for-like trade-ins. Notably, there are discrepancies between the MY2022 and MY2025 models; for instance, I now possess heated front seats, a feature that was omitted in the MY2022 but was available in the MY2019. There are several such differences.


I hope you both love your new MY2026 Sportages; please excuse my slight jealousy.

A brief update. I utilised Apple CarPlay for navigation today, and it is impressive with the heads-up display. The vehicle's standard ADAS features are still displayed in the HUD, however it utilises CarPlay instead of a native interface. I believe Android Auto functions comparably, although I doubt that Google Maps is operational. The Qi charger functions flawlessly. How frequently does your phone fail to align correctly for charging, however functions perfectly in the new car? Large, substantial mat that functions effectively.

I am clearly impressed with the MY26.