Since its UK launch back in 2010, the Kia Sportage has shone bright within the crossover market, and it is arguable that the Kia seven-year warranty/100,000-mile warranty plays a big part in this. However with its combination of contemporary looks, extensive standard kit and affordable prices, it is without a doubt in my mind that Kia are on to a winner with the Sportage model.
Now being of the vertically challenged calibre, having a SUV to drive was fantastic, however I learnt over the course of the weekend that the cars features satisfied a lot more than just being a little higher up in the world. I took this can on a variety of short journeys to test out its skills, ranging from stretches of motorway to tight country roads, and the performance that was delivered kept me wanting to continue the drive more and more. Whilst on the motorway the Sportage offered an effortless drive that offered comfort and also a sense of excitement from factors such as the high quality sound system. On the bumpy country roads, again the Sportage took on the challenge and drove really well. The turning circle was surprisingly good for a larger car and effortlessly moved around tight,steep bends without losing that necessary power to push you up hills.
The Sportage is easily recognisable with its distinctive grille, recently enlarged xenon headlights and chrome trim, but even though this is a larger vehicle it manages to keep an air of grace about it rather than just being a chunky car. Revised changes have also been made to the tail-lamps, offering better visibility to other road users while keeping the car's distinctive looks, but also all Sportage models come with alloy wheels as standard.
The model that I drove was the level 2 1.7 CRDi ECO Dynamics and I was more than happy with its interior. A mixture of upmarket design and innovative technology matches that of a executive car, while at the same time it makes a versatile and flexible family car. The cabin as a whole has a very spacious and airy feel about it, and this is massively enhanced by the retractable panoramic roof which received a big thumbs up from both me and my passengers.
The leather seats featured in the Sportage create a comfortable and luxurious drive that can make any long drive enjoyable. I particularly enjoyed the higher driving position which, combined with the sizeable wing mirrors, windscreen and windows created a memorable experience. The various gadgets available on this car are stylishly set out to create an improved driving experience with a dashboard that looks classy and clean. The car also boasts a minimum of 564 litres of boot space, which can be extended to more that 1,353 litres when both parts of the 60:40 split rear seats are folded down.
The car features a smooth six-speed gear box which teamed up with the diesel engine provided a really pleasant drive that packed plenty of torque when needed. The Sportage was responsive, handled well around bends and smoothly took on any bumps it faced in the road – and it has to be said that the engine sounded great! The impressive factor is that it was economical too, averaging around 54mpg combined, which is admirable for a car of its size. The emissions are pretty decent too for an SUV at just 135g/km.
In terms of the different models available in the Sportage range, as usual with Kia there is a variety to choose from to suit each individual's needs. The range is based on n ‘1’, ‘2’, ‘3’, ‘3 Sat Nav’ and ‘4’ trim designations, with all-wheel-drive versions given. Two new variations have also become available to broaden the appeal of the range, which offers two-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive models to suit every requirement. The 2.0-litre 134bhp turbo-diesel engine is now available within the range and come with the all-wheel-drive-entry-level 'KX-1' grade, however if you are looking for a car that offers a two-wheel drive experience, the 114bhp .1.7 litre turbo-diesel engine is now available in the Sportage '4' grade. Similar to a lot of Kia models, the Sportage also features the Kia fuel saving, emissions-reducing engine start/stop system. This cleverly works when the car is stationary in traffic, shutting the engine down and instantly restarting as soon as the driver is ready to move off again.
As a whole, I love my car but I had a bit of a heavy heart when it came to giving the Sportage back. The car has a lot to offer for an attractive price. Starting from £17,500, the Sportage can offer a mixture of style, comfort, technology and great economy all for an affordable price.
