More than four years since Kia’s third-generation Sportage first made its way to South African shores, the Korean manufacturer has updated its compact SUV contender for the new model year. While the Sportage has remained popular, Kia hopes that the updates for 2014 keep it at the forefront of a hotly contested segment.
The outgoing model set a strong precedent, with over 9 000 local sales and plenty of awards, so all the facelift has to do is maintain the positive public perception. Wisely, Kia hasn’t messed with the Sportage’s winning formula, especially the Peter Schreyer-penned exterior. The alterations are subtle, such as the slightly restyled grille and headlamps. The new front bumper, with new foglamps, increases the rear-view presence. There are also new alloy wheels in 17-inch and 18-inch sizes.
Inside, the new Sportage has benefited from the inclusion of certain elements that raise its perceived quality, such as soft-touch surfaces on the upper door panels. Occupants are greeted by a new 4,2-inch TFT LCD infotainment touchscreen mounted mid-facia that doubles as a rear-view camera screen. This range-topping all-wheel-drive version also comes with a sound system by American audio specialists Infinity that has a built-in subwoofer, external amplifier and hard drive.
Other areas of improvement are the reduction of NVH, through the use of bush-mounted subframes, a sound-proof windshield and new transmission mounting brackets. While the claim that road noise has decreased by 1,3 dB and wind noise improved by up to 4 dB isn’t easily tested, the Sportage is still as comfortable as ever.
One of the more noticeable improvements is the steering. An electrically assisted system has now been fitted to the Sportage diesel in favour of the old hydraulic-assisted steering. Low-speed anoeuvres are now performed at the lightest touch without sacrificing too much weight and feel at higher velocities.
TEST SUMMARY
Kia had no choice but to update the Sportage, what with the arrival of some prominent new players in its segment. Even though it’s been on our roads for quite some time, the Sportage still offers quite a bit of styling individuality and an overall package that boasts good value for money.
