The KIA Sportage is small SUV or crossover; although it has been available for a number of years it was the Sportage that was introduced in 2010 that opened the eyes of the buying public.
For many years KIA offered feature filled vehicles with a long warranty, but to be honest, the cars were not really all that exciting. All of a sudden, a very attractive SUV appeared, one that really set the tone for a phenomenal increase in sales from then on.
The latest KIA Sportage in NJ is not about to spoil anything, it keeps its visual identity and improves upon it and the vehicles strong points, pushing the Sportage to the top of its class.
Performance:
The Sportage is available in either diesel or gasoline models. The entry level gasoline engine is not turbocharged but as an option it can be. The 1.6 L engines are available with a six speed manual transmission or seven speed automatic.
The choice of many is the Sportage with a 1.7 L diesel; this model is front wheel drive and is available with an automatic transmission. For those that want a little more “punch” there is a 2.0 L, four wheel drive version that can certainly out pull its own weight.
Behind the wheel:
Even though the KIA Sportage is considered to be a small SUV it offers very good driving positions for just about any size or shape. The top end models are equipped with fully electric seats but even the entry level gets an electrically operated lumbar support for full driver comfort.
Quality:
The interior is typically KIA; smart looking. Using a combination of matt plastic and metal highlights the interior looks very refined. The whole car feels good, sturdy and well built with enough interior space for four full grown adults with room to spare.
