Kia Launches Updated Niro and New Sportage PHEV Models in Israel

Kia's Israeli importer, Telecar, has introduced the facelifted second-generation Niro and a new plug-in hybrid (PHEV) version of the updated Sportage. The refreshed Niro, available since May 2025, received design updates to the front and rear, new color-matched rear pillars, and new wheels, aligning with Kia's current design language. The dashboard was also updated. Mechanically, the hybrid powertrain was slightly enhanced, with the 1.6-liter gasoline engine now producing 102 horsepower (up 9 hp) paired with a 43.5 hp electric motor, delivering a combined output of 138 hp (up 9 hp). The transmission remains a 6-speed dual-clutch, with acceleration to 100 km/h unchanged at 11.3 seconds. Fuel efficiency slightly declined to 19.6-21.7 km/l from 22.2-22.7 km/l before the update. The plug-in hybrid and fully electric versions were discontinued in favor of dedicated electric models like the EV3.

The Niro is offered in two trims: the EX, priced at 177,000 shekels, includes a 12.3-inch multimedia screen, 4.2-inch driver display, wireless smartphone connectivity, dual-zone climate control with rear vents, front and rear parking sensors, rain and light sensors, synthetic leather upholstery, a sunroof, 16-inch wheels, and a comprehensive safety package rated 7 out of 8 by the Ministry of Transport. The Premium trim, costing 180,000 shekels, adds an electrically adjustable driver seat, a black glossy front grille, side trim, and 18-inch wheels.

Alongside the Niro update, Kia introduced the Sportage PHEV priced at 220,000 shekels, complementing existing Sportage variants including the 1.6 turbo (204,000 shekels), hybrid (185,000-207,000 shekels), and Long versions (190,000-210,000 shekels). The Sportage PHEV features a 1.6-liter turbo gasoline engine producing 180 hp paired with a 107 hp electric motor (up 16 hp), combining for 288 hp (up 23 hp). It uses a 6-speed automatic transmission with front-wheel drive (previously all-wheel drive) and accelerates to 100 km/h in 7.5 seconds, 0.7 seconds faster than before. The 13.8 kWh battery offers an electric range of 68 km, slightly less than the previous model.

The Sportage PHEV comes in a single trim with leather upholstery, electrically adjustable, heated and ventilated front seats with driver memory, a 12.3-inch touchscreen with wireless connectivity, dual-zone climate control with rear vents, front and rear parking sensors, rain and light sensors, a panoramic sunroof, hands-free electric tailgate, 19-inch wheels, ambient lighting, and a safety rating of 7 out of 8 by the Ministry of Transport. Compared to the previous GT Line PHEV version sold at 260,000 shekels, this model lacks matrix LED headlights, a heated steering wheel, rear seat heating, and wireless charging.