Much like the scenery in which this first-drive story took place, photos alone don't tell the whole story. In all, thanks to Kia's 'value through styling' ideology, the new Sportage's looks hit harder than its pricing might suggest.
Mostly good news inside
The interior does a similar trick, though perhaps not to such an impressive degree. Sportage’s cabin gets a depthy and upscale look, adult-friendly rear seats, and a healthy, easily-accessible cargo hold at the rear. It's assembled as nicely as any of the Japanese competition, too, though trim materials won’t be blowing any socks off, and a little more colour contrast would go a long way to brighten up the dark scenery.
If you like free goodies, the Bluetooth interface, wheel-mounted audio controls, iPod connector and driver computer fitted to all models should adequately compensate.
Safe, sound and winter-ready
Good deal on safety equipment, too. Aside from the segment-standard airbags and ABS, Sportage offers advanced rollover protection systems and an advanced, intelligent Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system across the line-up. Bigger, beefier brakes have been fitted, as have active head restraints. Add in the Canadian-designed all-wheel-drive (AWD) system, and no matter what the heck Mother Nature is dishing out, you and yours can roll in cool, protected comfort.
Great ride, handling, shifting and steering
While doing so, you'll take in another of the Sportage's value points—its ride and handling. Even on undulating on poorly-maintained highways, your writer found the suspension delivered a near-perfect blend of drama-free tautness and planted comfort. It’s slightly comfortable, slightly more sporty, and solid throughout. Not too floaty and not too harsh, but just right if you’re into something a little on the fun-to-drive side.
Brakes and steering are delightfully responsive and sporty, and opting for the six-speed manual gets drivers a light and easy-rowing shifter and clutch combo. Only front-drive models come with the stick, so there’s no six-speed, AWD combination possible. Utility-minded driving enthusiasts should note that Subaru will still sell them a Forester with a stick shift, if they’re so inclined. Just sayin'.
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| Sportage’s cabin gets a depthy and upscale look. (Photo: Justin Pritchard/Auto123.com) |
Mostly good news inside
The interior does a similar trick, though perhaps not to such an impressive degree. Sportage’s cabin gets a depthy and upscale look, adult-friendly rear seats, and a healthy, easily-accessible cargo hold at the rear. It's assembled as nicely as any of the Japanese competition, too, though trim materials won’t be blowing any socks off, and a little more colour contrast would go a long way to brighten up the dark scenery.
If you like free goodies, the Bluetooth interface, wheel-mounted audio controls, iPod connector and driver computer fitted to all models should adequately compensate.
Safe, sound and winter-ready
Good deal on safety equipment, too. Aside from the segment-standard airbags and ABS, Sportage offers advanced rollover protection systems and an advanced, intelligent Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system across the line-up. Bigger, beefier brakes have been fitted, as have active head restraints. Add in the Canadian-designed all-wheel-drive (AWD) system, and no matter what the heck Mother Nature is dishing out, you and yours can roll in cool, protected comfort.
Great ride, handling, shifting and steering
While doing so, you'll take in another of the Sportage's value points—its ride and handling. Even on undulating on poorly-maintained highways, your writer found the suspension delivered a near-perfect blend of drama-free tautness and planted comfort. It’s slightly comfortable, slightly more sporty, and solid throughout. Not too floaty and not too harsh, but just right if you’re into something a little on the fun-to-drive side.
Brakes and steering are delightfully responsive and sporty, and opting for the six-speed manual gets drivers a light and easy-rowing shifter and clutch combo. Only front-drive models come with the stick, so there’s no six-speed, AWD combination possible. Utility-minded driving enthusiasts should note that Subaru will still sell them a Forester with a stick shift, if they’re so inclined. Just sayin'.
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| Sportage offers advanced rollover protection systems and an advanced, intelligent Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system across the line-up. (Photo: Justin Pritchard/Auto123.com) |