Not only about style
But the Kia Sportage isn’t just about style, it’s about versatility as well. Don’t forget, it’s still a practical, well-laid out sport utility vehicle.
Comfort-wise, the perches of all occupants are nearly flawless, and even the back seats offer enough space for two adults, large or small – and you can easily fit a kid in there between them too.
As for the list of equipment on my EX tester, it’s rather long and obviously includes all manner of connectivity gizmos (iPod, Bluetooth, etc.), as well as a stereo system that, without being worthy of a concert hall, holds its own with the best in the class.
A rear-view camera, heated seats and other refinements are also included, though evidently for a price.
Lastly, a word about the cargo area. While it’s not necessarily the vastest to begin with, it can be expanded to 2,200 litres simply by folding the rear seats down. After all, an SUV should also be functional.
Sport utility vehicle, minus the sport
The only trouble, and it’s minor, is that the Kia Sportage isn’t as fuel efficient as you’d hope. The little 2.4-litre four-banger deploys its 176 ponies with gusto and proves up to the task, but sometimes it seems to be working too hard.
The six-speed autobox and the all-wheel drive do a good job overall, reacting gratifyingly quickly but not with enough force to meet the engine’s demands.
So much so that I never managed any lower than 10 litres per 100 km, and while never really pushing the envelope either.
In the end, though, the Kia Sportage is a remarkable exercise in style and a thoroughly practical little ride.
But the Kia Sportage isn’t just about style, it’s about versatility as well. Don’t forget, it’s still a practical, well-laid out sport utility vehicle.
Comfort-wise, the perches of all occupants are nearly flawless, and even the back seats offer enough space for two adults, large or small – and you can easily fit a kid in there between them too.
As for the list of equipment on my EX tester, it’s rather long and obviously includes all manner of connectivity gizmos (iPod, Bluetooth, etc.), as well as a stereo system that, without being worthy of a concert hall, holds its own with the best in the class.
A rear-view camera, heated seats and other refinements are also included, though evidently for a price.
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| The cargo area can be expanded to 2,200 litres simply by folding the rear seats down. (Photo: Kia) |
Lastly, a word about the cargo area. While it’s not necessarily the vastest to begin with, it can be expanded to 2,200 litres simply by folding the rear seats down. After all, an SUV should also be functional.
Sport utility vehicle, minus the sport
The only trouble, and it’s minor, is that the Kia Sportage isn’t as fuel efficient as you’d hope. The little 2.4-litre four-banger deploys its 176 ponies with gusto and proves up to the task, but sometimes it seems to be working too hard.
The six-speed autobox and the all-wheel drive do a good job overall, reacting gratifyingly quickly but not with enough force to meet the engine’s demands.
So much so that I never managed any lower than 10 litres per 100 km, and while never really pushing the envelope either.
In the end, though, the Kia Sportage is a remarkable exercise in style and a thoroughly practical little ride.
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