Kia Sportage: an All-Rounder SUV

Automologist ATHERTON checked out Kia's sporty SUV over the weekend... Kia’s presence on the big stage is already well documented. Our...

Automologist ATHERTON checked out Kia's sporty SUV over the weekend...

Kia’s presence on the big stage is already well documented. Our previous article on its partnership with World Cup talks about its rise to become a global powerhouse in the automotive industry.

 A new horizon. 

 

Kia Sportage is one of the bestselling models in the Kia lineup in the United States. Here in Malaysia, the top two contenders are the Sorento and Cerato, with the Sportage close behind. The Sportage appeals to a different kind of driver. I dropped by their showroom to find out.
 
If you’re looking for a zesty drive with a plush ambience and a host of brilliant instrument clusters, this is superb value for money. We’re talking about the top of the line variant here—the 2.0D GT. Its diesel engine punches out a wholesome 400Nm as early as 1,750 rpm and keeps it there till it hits another thousand. With paddle shifters to boot, we know you’ll be grinning from ear to ear. The organ-like pedals certainly helps the appeal.

Sheer class.


The cabin is nicely laid out with leather a prominent theme. The steering is meaty and nicely upholstered. It comes with 5-inch color TFT-LCD touch screen audio with rear-view camera display. It also has a 4.2-inch color TFT-LCD to relay all the vital information you need while driving.

Hell yeah.


What I found fascinating was its rear seats, which can be reclined quite far back and provide one with a deep snooze. What's more, with leather upholstery, you’ll be sleeping like a baby. Its rear seats can also be folded flat to carry extra luggage. Headroom is surprisingly adequate and doesn’t feel claustrophobic in the rear.

Nicely laid out gauges give you vital info.


Ice-cube like LED fog lamps are a nice touch. Chrome bits carefully placed on the exterior further emphasizes the measures that the designers took to make this car look good. Fuel efficiency is further improved with a side garnish rear spoiler coupled with front wheel air curtains, all in the name of improving your driving experience.

Ice, ice baby…


The top of the line GT unit comes with electronic parking brake, has DMS (Driver Mode Select), which gives you choices of Normal, Eco and Sport mode. It also has Front Parking Assist. Every manufacturer nowadays has standard 6 airbags and the Sportage offers the same package which we’re sure will give you peace of mind. Add on to that, it comes with a five-year unlimited mileage warranty.

Four colours are offered: Fiery Red, Mercury Blue, Mineral Silver and Snow White Pearl. The GT line comes with 19” Alloy rims while its other siblings has 17”.

Prices range from RM121,266.47 for the entry level unit, which is petrol-based; the enhanced petrol version (2.0GT) is priced at RM140,742.83 and the top of the range 2.0D GT is RM155,356.99. All prices are on the road without insurance.

If you’re thinking of getting a compact crossover SUV, then the Sportage would be a wise choice. Go for a test drive and find out.

Ready to reinvent the game.



5" colour TFT-LCD touch screen audio.



Extra space sure comes in handy.



The six-gear unit features auto shift lock which prevents unintended acceleration 



Kia thinks about its occupants—6 airbags.




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