Kia’s sales are in the ascendency, but can its Sportage crossover hit the high notes, wonders Al Suttie
1 – Looks are subjective, but the Sportage seems to divide opinion down the middle like few other cars I’ve tested.
2 – For what it’s worth, I like the more SUV approach to the crossover sector, even if this 2 trim does without all-wheel drive.
3 – No 4×4 is a good thing when it comes to economy and emissions as this 116hp 1.7-litre turbodiesel offers 119g/km.
4 – Compare that to other Sportage variants and it’s significantly better, and this engine still offers decent low-end shove.
5 – Granted, 0-60mph in 11.1 seconds isn’t ball of fire stuff, but it suits the easy-going nature of the Kia.
6 – Couple that to 61.4mpg combined economy and this driver will take this figure over getting to 60mph a second quicker in the 136hp version.
7 – In 2 trim, there’s touchscreen sat-nav, a much needed reversing camera, parking sensors, lane keeping aid, and auto wipers and headlights.
8 – That’s good value for the money in a comfy, spacious SUV-alike with a decent, though not class-leading, boot.
9 – Gripes? Well, the engine could be quieter when going about its business and the ride and handling are not as polished as a SEAT Ateca’s.
10 – Owt else? With my nitty-picky hat on, there are too many buttons for the ventilation when a couple more rotary dials would suffice.
