Kia Sportage Production in Brazil May Eliminate the 35% Import Tax, Reduce the Price to R$ 274,990 and Bring More Competitiveness to the Hybrid SUV; Uruguay Emerges as an Alternative Plan.
The Kia Sportage, one of the most beloved SUVs in Brazil, may be about to gain an unprecedented chapter in its journey in the country. To circumvent the impact of the import tax, Kia is exploring alternatives to produce the model within Mercosur, focusing on Brazil and Uruguay. But why is this so important? Let’s explore this story and understand how the South Korean brand seeks to ensure the competitiveness of the Sportage here.
The Challenge of Import Taxes for the Kia Sportage
When we talk about hybrid SUVs, price is one of the main barriers for many consumers. Currently, the Kia Sportage arrives in Brazil imported from Slovakia, with a price of R$ 274,990. Part of this value comes from the 25% import tax charged on hybrid models. And, starting in July 2026, this rate could reach the ceiling of 35%.
To prevent the Sportage from becoming even less accessible, Kia is seeking a solution within Mercosur, which allows exemptions from these taxes for products assembled in the region. This not only helps the brand maintain more competitive prices but also to face local competitors.
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Production Alternatives within Mercosur

The possibility of assembling the Kia Sportage in Brazil is one of the strongest strategies. José Luiz Gandini, president of Kia do Brasil, revealed that the company is in negotiations with potential local partners. One of the options would be to utilize the new Comexport complex, which incorporated the old Troller factory in Horizonte, Ceará.
However, the decision depends on factors such as tax incentives, which in the Northeast have a set end date. Producing in Brazil requires meticulous planning, as costs need to be balanced to justify the investment.
Production in Uruguay: A Viable Plan B
If production in Brazil is not feasible, Uruguay emerges as an interesting Plan B. The Nordex complex in Montevideo is already home to the assembly of Kia vehicles, such as the light truck Bongo, and could be a quick solution for the production of the Sportage.
With Stellantis vacating the site, having transferred Fiat and Peugeot model production to Argentina, there is space for new projects. Kia could thus take advantage of this infrastructure and keep the Sportage competitive in the market.
What the Kia Sportage Offers to Brazilian Consumers
Even facing the challenges of importation, the Kia Sportage remains one of the most desired models of the brand in Brazil. The EX Prestige version comes equipped with cutting-edge technology, such as a 1.6 turbo mild hybrid engine with 180 hp, a 12.3-inch multimedia center, and a panoramic sunroof.
Additionally, features like adaptive cruise control, blind spot alert, and wireless charging show that the Sportage is made for those seeking comfort and safety. Local production could also expand the portfolio of versions, making the SUV even more attractive.
The Future of Kia Sportage in the Brazilian Market
The decision to produce the Kia Sportage in Brazil or Uruguay could define the future of the brand in the country. If choosing a local factory, Kia will have more freedom to adjust prices and offer competitive versions. On the other hand, Uruguay offers speed and lower initial costs, which is also strategic.
Regardless of the choice, Kia’s goal is clear: to keep the Sportage among the most relevant SUVs in Brazil. After all, the SUV market is one of the most competitive and dynamic, and every detail counts when it comes to winning over consumers.

Tenho uma sportage e estou comprando um de outra marca devido ao valor. Uma pena sair da kia pois amo meu carro e gostaria muito de comprar outro mas no momento não dá. Essa estratégia seria uma boa opção.
Kia Motrs, pessoalmente entre os carros que possuir, nunca tive tamanha satisfação com outras Marcas. Ainda não comprei outro por conta da condição econômica, assim que possível comprarei outro da Marca
Carro maravilhoso, porém deficiente no número de concessionárias. Várias cidades de grande porte não possui opções de manutenção especializada.