2026 Kia Sportage PHEV Trim Guide: Safety Tech and Features for Ontario Drivers

The 2026 Kia Sportage Plug-In Hybrid arrives in three distinct trims—EX, EX Premium, and SX—with progressively advanced safety systems and technology features. For drivers in Pickering and across Ontario navigating winter commutes, understanding which trim delivers the right balance of driver assistance, connectivity, and cold-weather comfort shapes your daily driving experience.

This guide breaks down the safety technology and infotainment features across all three PHEV trims, highlighting how each configuration supports Canadian driving conditions from Highway 401 commutes to weekend trips north.

What Powers the 2026 Sportage Plug-In Hybrid

All three PHEV trims share the same powertrain: a 1.6-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder engine paired with a 72 kW electric motor, delivering 268 hp and 271 lb-ft of torque through a 6-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel drive comes standard across the lineup, providing confident traction on snow-covered roads and icy intersections.

The 13.8 kWh lithium-ion polymer battery enables electric-only driving for short trips, while the 42-litre fuel tank ensures extended range when needed. Towing capacity reaches 907 kg (2,000 lbs) when properly equipped, suitable for small trailers or recreational gear.

EX Trim: Core Safety and Connectivity

The entry-level EX trim establishes the Sportage PHEV's foundation with Forward Collision Avoidance Assist 1.5, designed to detect pedestrians, cyclists, and vehicles ahead. The system uses sensors and a camera to scan the road and can automatically apply brakes when a potential collision is detected.

Standard safety features include:

• Forward Collision Avoidance Assist 1.5 with pedestrian, cyclist, and car detection
• Parking Distance Warning (front and rear)
• Hands-on Detection sensors to monitor steering wheel contact
• Smart Cruise Control 2 with stop-and-go capability

Technology features centre on a curved 12.3-inch touchscreen display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, plus Kia Connect with over-the-air updates. The 4-inch LCD/TFT instrument cluster provides essential driving information, while a wireless phone charger keeps devices ready.

For winter comfort, heated front seats and a heated steering wheel come standard, along with dual-zone automatic climate control and an automatic defog system. Keyless entry and push-button start simplify cold-weather access.

EX Premium: Enhanced Driver Assistance and Premium Audio

The EX Premium trim upgrades the safety suite significantly, introducing Highway Drive Assist 2 and Forward Collision Avoidance Assist 2 with direct oncoming detection and avoidance. These systems use forward-facing cameras, radar sensors, and navigation data to maintain predetermined speeds and distances from vehicles ahead, while also assisting with steering wheel control during lane changes activated by the turn signal.

Additional safety upgrades include:

• Parking Collision Avoidance Assist (reverse)
• Parking Distance Warning (front, side, and rear)
• Blind View Monitor for checking blind spots
• Surround View Monitor providing 360-degree visibility
• Remote Smart Parking Assist for tight spaces

The technology package expands with a 12.3-inch Supervision LCD/TFT instrument cluster replacing the smaller 4-inch display, plus an LCD/TFT heads-up display projecting key information onto the windshield. The Harman Kardon premium audio system delivers enhanced sound quality throughout the cabin.

Digital Key functionality allows compatible smartphones to lock, unlock, and start the vehicle remotely. LED headlights with 4-cube projection and low beam assist improve visibility during dark winter mornings and evenings.

SX Trim: Top-Tier Features and Refinement

The SX trim builds on the EX Premium's comprehensive safety and technology suite without adding further driver assistance systems. Instead, it focuses on premium materials and convenience features.

Interior refinements include leather seating surfaces, a power-adjustable passenger seat with lumbar support, ventilated front seats for summer comfort, and a power liftgate with smart opening. The leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob add tactile quality, while ambient lighting creates a refined cabin atmosphere.

Exterior styling upgrades feature 19-inch alloy wheels and additional dark satin finish elements. The panoramic sunroof opens up the cabin, though it reduces headroom slightly compared to lower trims.

Cold-Weather Performance Across Trims

The 13.8 kWh battery in all PHEV trims uses lithium-ion polymer chemistry, which maintains better cold-weather performance than older battery technologies. However, electric range naturally decreases in sub-zero temperatures as energy diverts to cabin heating and battery thermal management.

All trims benefit from:

• Preconditioning capability to warm the cabin while plugged in
• Heated front seats and steering wheel (standard across lineup)
• Dual-zone climate control with rear ventilation
• AWD torque distribution optimized for low-traction surfaces

The electric motor's instant torque delivery aids winter starts on slippery surfaces, while regenerative braking provides controlled deceleration on icy roads when used properly.

Key Specifications

Choosing Your Sportage PHEV Trim

The EX trim suits budget-conscious buyers prioritizing core safety features and electric driving capability without premium audio or advanced parking assistance. Daily commuters covering predictable routes will find its safety suite and connectivity features sufficient.

The EX Premium trim appeals to drivers seeking comprehensive driver assistance for highway travel and urban parking challenges. The heads-up display and surround view monitor are particularly valuable during winter when visibility drops and parking spaces shrink from snow accumulation.

The SX trim targets buyers wanting maximum comfort and refinement alongside the EX Premium's safety technology. Ventilated seats, power passenger seat adjustment, and premium materials justify the price increase for those spending significant time behind the wheel.

Experience the 2026 Sportage Plug-In Hybrid at Bessada Kia

The 2026 Kia Sportage Plug-In Hybrid lineup offers three distinct approaches to electrified driving. Visit Bessada Kia in Pickering to compare trims in person and discuss which configuration fits your driving patterns across Ontario's varied conditions.

To learn more about the 2026 Kia Sportage PHEV, visit Kia.ca