Kia Motors recently released the first images of the facelifted 2009 Sportage. The updates include subtle changes to the front and rear bumpers as well as an updated instrument panel and dashboard.

Facelift includes new bumpers and grille

2009 Kia Sportage

Taking a page from the Japanese manufacturers, even though the Sportage was its best-selling SUV, Kia has made some minor styling changes to keep the model fresh. Up front, there’s a new grille design set inside an all-new bumper and front fascia. The wheel arches have been revised and the standard alloy wheels have also been re-designed.

2009 Kia Sportage

In addition to the exterior changes, both the dashboard and instrument panel have been updated in the interior. Seating fabric has also been changed and the passenger-side airbag can now be disabled, making it safer for the little ones if you want to place a baby seat there.

2009 Kia Sportage

No changes have been made under the hood for U.S. models. We still get the 141hp 4-cylinder and 2.7 liter V-6 engines, while the European and other world markets will also have the choice of a new 150hp turbodiesel engine. Word out of Korea is that there are no firm plans yet to introduce a diesel option in the North American market in 2009.