Kia Slovakia began producing the second generation of the Sportage model in 2006, which at the time brought significant improvements in design, quality, safety and performance. Since then, the plant has produced a total of more than 2.36 million units of this model. This includes over 100,000 units of the second generation, more than 800,000 units of the third generation, and over 1.1 million units of the fourth generation. Since 2021, production volumes of the current fifth generation have been steadily increasing.
“The Sportage is celebrating 30 years globally, and our plant has contributed to its production for 17 years. Manufacturing four generations of this model at our plant is a clear sign of the long-standing demand and popularity that the Sportage enjoys in an ever-evolving automotive environment. With a total share of 53% of overall production since the start of operations at our plant, it is our most successful model. As for the current fifth generation, we are the only plant in the world producing its shorter European version. To date, we have produced more than 330,000 units, and it can be expected to be just as successful as its predecessor,” said Tomáš Potoček, Spokesperson for Kia Slovakia.
Throughout the history of production at Kia Slovakia, the Sportage has been delivered to customers in a total of 104 countries, with the United Kingdom being the largest export market. Exports also reached more distant markets such as Australia and New Zealand, although this applied only to the third generation of the model. Over 17 years of production, 25,000 units of the Sportage have found owners in Slovakia.
The jubilee edition features a completely new body colour, complemented by gloss black window surrounds and a rear spoiler. New dark chrome decorative elements at the front, rear and sides enhance the vehicle’s elegant appearance and are available exclusively in the anniversary edition. The exterior design is further accentuated by new sporty 19-inch high-gloss black alloy wheels.
Inside, carefully crafted suede and artificial leather seats provide both the driver and passengers with a high level of comfort. The anniversary edition also introduces a new Midnight Green interior colour package, further enhancing the premium character of the Sportage. The anniversary edition will go on sale in Europe at the end of September and will gradually be introduced to other markets as well.
