GRABOUW – Now in its fourth generation, the new Kia Sportage moves even further away from the back-to-basics premise of the first-generation model and comfortably into its role as a fashion-forward compact SUV designed to go toe-to-toe with the new Volkswagen Tiguan and upcoming Peugeot 3008.
The local range consists of four engine derivatives, three transmission options, two drivetrain variants and four trim grades, and costs from R369 995 for the 2,0 Ignite to R599 995 for the range-topping 1,6 T-GDi GT-Line AWD (for a break-down of the range, click here).
This model, the second-from-the-top 2,0 CRDi SX AWD AT, boasts Kia’s 2,0-litre turbodiesel engine mated with a six-speed torque-converter automatic, and costs a not inconsiderable R567 995. The Sportage is priced right at the upper end of the compact-SUV market … does it have the talent to support such bullish pricing?
Outside and in
Already one of the handsomest SUVs in its class in generation-three guise, the new Sportage looks sleek, thoroughly modern and nicely rakish. Kia’s signature tiger-nose grille is still there, but this time separated from the headlamps, while the rear end features smaller, more horizontally inclined lamps that boast LED elements in this trim. Coupled with stylish 19-inch alloy wheels shod with substantial 245/45-rubber, bi-xenon headlamps and considered use of chrome trim, the Sportage should attract buyers on its looks alone.
They should be sold when they jump inside. The list of standard items is too long to mention here in full, but the standout features are a new seven-inch touchscreen infotainment system (the first Kia in our market with this setup, and a great one it is) with satellite navigation, park-distance control and a rear-view camera, keyless start and go, leather trim throughout, a powered tailgate, electric seats that are also heated (as are the ones in the rear) and auto lights, wipers and rear-view mirror.
These items are fitted in a cabin with excellent levels of perceived quality, and flawless fit and finish on the vehicles we drove at the launch. Soft-touch materials abound, the leather trim feels like exactly that (surprisingly, not always a given at this price level) and the buttons and knobs work with a oiled precision that a number of manufacturers could but hope to emulate. Kia has long set a high standard for interior design, and the latest Sportage is its most impressive offering yet.
Space-wise, Kia claims marginal increases in front and rear head- and legroom, as well 38 litres more packing space in the boot (accessed through a 35 mm wider opening). A sit-behind-self test of my 1,85-metre frame revealed acres of rear legroom and generous amounts of shoulder space, but my hair did get close to brushing the roof-lining of the panoramic-sunroof-equipped model I drove. Vehicles without this latter R12 500 feature should provide more scalp clearance.
On the road
Kia’s 2,0-litre turbodiesel is one of the best of its ilk, and back-to-back drives with the 1,6-litre turbopetrol, which it shares with the considerably cheaper Hyundai Tucson, confirmed the oil-burner to be the powertrain of choice. Stout torque delivery from just 1 750 r/min is coupled with a slick-shifting six-speed automatic transmission and superior refinement to deliver a very satisfying drive. Kia also offers a 2,4-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine in SX grade, for R10 000 less, but choosing the diesel is a no-brainer.
Dynamically, the Sportage puts in a slightly less impressive showing. Ride comfort was never the previous model’s forte, and there’s very little doubt the new model is more composed and comfortable. However, it still errs on the firm side, and sustained stretches of patchy tar can see the suspension setup jostling occupants more than in rivals such as the Ford Kuga and Tiguan. It’s never uncomfortable, though, and the trade-off is very good body control. I found the steering system well judged and certainly more direct than the previous Sportage’s overly light rack.
So … overall, the Sportage is greatly improved in the areas it needed to be. The cabin is larger, more refined and better built, standard specification is the best in its segment, the diesel powertrain remains as excellent as always and the 1,6-litre turbopetrol grants the Sportage some much-needed clout in this era of downsized petrol engines.
However, these improvements must be viewed in context of the pricing. At R567 995, this 2,0 CRDi SX AWD slots in above its direct diesel rivals from Ford, Mazda (CX-5) and Toyota (RAV4), and knocks on the doors of the German premium rivals. I suspect some buyers might reconsider their choice and reluctantly opt for a cheaper rival (or ditch AWD and choose the 2,0 CRDi EX at R487 995). And that would be a pity – the new Sportage is indicative of a brand that’s come of age.
*Don’t miss the December issue of CAR, which will feature a scoop group test of this version of the Sportage, as well as the flagship 1,6 T-GDi.
