As one of Kia Motors South Africa's most popular models the Sportage has received numerous design awards, various Car of the Year titles, while locally it was also a finalist for the 2011 Wesbank SA Car of the Year competition. Its most recent accolade was awarded in December 2013 where the Sportage was crowned as the overall winner in the SUV and Cross-over category in the Standard Bank People's Wheels Awards.
The upgraded Sportage is available with a choice of two engines - a smooth 2.0 D-CVVT petrol engine and a more powerful 2.0 VGT CRDi diesel engine. The petrol engine is now paired with either a six-speed manual or automatic transmission (which Kia says will add improved fuel consumption). Both the petrol and diesel versions will be available in three packages: the entry level Ignite model, a 2WD package and the top of the range, full house AWD package.
Korean cars have never been known for pin-sharp steering so it comes as no surprise that Kia has tweaked the steering on the diesel models from hydraulic-assisted steering to motor driven power steering.
Although Kia models have in the past provided a fairly smooth ride it has been improved with reductions in noise, vibration and harshness levels. Both the petrol and diesel engines will be available in three packages: the entry level Ignite model, a 2WD package and the top of the range, full house AWD package.
New cosmetic improvements include a re-moulded front grille, changes to the front fog lamps and a slightly lower bumper and the new alloy wheels add a further bit of sportiness.
In the living quarters, there have been slight, but clever changes to improve driver space; the sound has been improved and the upholstery trim given a fresh look. The instrument cluster features a new 4.2" TFT LCD touch screen, which provides and provides a rear-view camera display.
At the media introduction of the jazzed-up Kia, I drove the petrol version for a brief spell and enjoyed the livelier new engine that delivers 116kW and 192Nm. I also liked the smoother new 6-speed transmission, which is sure to appeal to daily commuters and Mum's Taxi operators (Both engines are available in 6-speed manual and automatic transmissions).
The Sportage's good sales figures against top competitors such as Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Hyundai ix35 and Nissan Qashqai underlines its quality, looks and driver appeal and in its smarter kit should further strengthen its market position. Anybody shopping around in this segment will be foolish to ignore it.
The smartened up Sportage range vary in price from R271,925 to R408,995 and all prices include a five-year/150,000km service plan and a five-year 90,000km warranty.
