The biggest issue about the latest edition of the ever popular Kia Sportage is that it comes with a 1.6-litre
turbodiesel engine. The usual petrol engine models are also available but the promise of fuel
consumption of 6.4L per 100km by the diesel model has sparked huge interest in the SA market
stressed by high fuel prices.
But there’s a lot more about the latest Kia Sportage.
Exterior
Both the diesel and petrol-powered models sport similar trim lines which cancel out any styling
differences. All the eight models released in South Africa also boast the same bold front grille which give
the new Kia Sportage an aggressive and yet sporty looks. The sharp headlights complete the bold
appearance with their wrap around the sides of the SUV.
Upper models, from mid-range EX trim, come with a sporty glossy black grille which includes parking
assist sensors. The 18-inch alloy wheels clearly show the often reliable Korean SUV is ready to roll on all
surfaces – paved or dirt roads.
Interior
Inside, the Kia Sportage leaves nothing to chance as far as space, comfort and luxury are concerned
despite the minimalistic details.
The centrally placed large touchscreen, accompanied by the digital instrument binnacle in front of the
driver, are both held in an attractive curved glass panel.
Though the large screens offer multiple functions the driver is not distracted by any attempt to operate
them, thanks to the easily accessible strip of touch-enabled digital controls. Therefore operating both the
infotainment and the largely detailed air-conditioning system is a largely manageable exercise for the
driver.
While the seats of the entry level models are covered by fabric, and the EX models a combination of
cloth and leather on the sides, seating comfortable is guaranteed. Seating in the upper models, the GT-
Line, is however more comfortable on leather seats.
The mid-range EX models include a lot more luxury specs which are enough to help those pressed for
cash to enjoy the Sportage without committing to purchases of the pricey GT-Line trim. The EX’s handy
features include electrically adjustable driver seat, heated front and rear seats and heated steering wheel
which will be useful on bitterly cold winter mornings.
The new Sportage also boasts a spacious front and plenty of leg room for adults in the rear.
Safety
The latest Kia Sportage boasts all the modern motoring safety features such as ABS, EBA, hill-start
assist, traction/stability control, hill-descent control, six airbags, a blind spot monitor, cruise control, child
locks and rear privacy glass. In addition to that are ISOfix, light-sensing LED headlamps, front LED fog
lamps, park distance control in the front and rear and a rearview camera with a large display in the
touchscreen. Safety has always been a big deal for the Kia Sportage. While the previous generation was
awarded 5 stars for safety by EuroNCAP, the new edition has already won Car of the Year South Africa’s
Midsize Category.
As already stated above, the GT-Line options break the bank and there’s a grand reason why range-
topping GT-Line Plus is nearly R800 000: it boasts semi-self-driving tech such as adaptive cruise control
and all that high tech jazz.
Overall, there’s nothing shabby about being in the driving seat of the latest Sportage – from the entry
level LX trims upwards.
Pricing
Kia Sportage 1.6 T-GDi LX: R603 995
Kia Sportage 1.6 CRDi LX: R627 995
Kia Sportage 1.6 T-GDi EX: R657 995
Kia Sportage 1.6 CRDi EX: R657 995
Kia Sportage 1.6 T-GDi GT-Line: R713 995
Kia Sportage 1.6 T-GDi GT-Line Plus: R741 995
Kia Sportage 1.6 CRDi GT-Line Plus: R765 995
Kia Sportage 1.6 T-GDi GT-Line S: R798 995
With 5-year/Unlimited kilometer warranty.
