Kia Sportage and Optima revealed

South Korea’s top carmaker, Hyundai Motor Co., and its sister affiliate, Kia Motors Corp., saw their combined market share in Europe reach its highest level in one year, industry data showed Tuesday.

Kia doesn’t spoil us with details, though, and its press information seems to be concentrated more on the sporty GT version (the dark blue vehicle in the gallery and opening shot). But the fourth-generation Kia Sportage does have a hint of Cayenne about it, and the designer waffle references “the smooth and sharp shapes found on iconic modern fighter jets”.

The downsized UII 1.7-liter diesel power train offers a dynamic experience through its seven-speed dual clutch transmission. The R 2.0-liter diesel engine, which meets the latest Euro 6 emissions standards, is equipped with a high-efficiency turbo charger that allows for a strong performance and claims a fuel efficiency of up to 14.4 kmpl.

Later on from its launch Kia will offer the Sportage as a plug-in hybrid, a model that could potentially be offered Down Under, says Kia’s Aussie arm.

The all-new Sportage builds comprehensively on the success of the outgoing model, with an attractive, all-new exterior design, a host of advanced new technology features and greater quality.

Inside, the new Sportage promises to be quieter than the previous generation, with significantly increased soundproofing through the cabin. The Sportage also has a slightly larger footprint than before, affording more passenger and cargo space inside. The height remains the same at 1635mm, as does the width at 1855mm.

Another differentiator to the European specification on show in Frankfurt, is the inclusion of a full-size spare tyre. Newly available active-safety features include autonomous emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and rear cross-traffic alert.