Kia Sportage 2021

The Sportage was first revealed back in 2015 then brought to market in 2016. Serving as the nameplate's fourth-generation model, this compact crossover got a slight refresh for the 2019 model year which includes subtle tweaks to the exterior. 

With a unibody chassis, the Sportage feels well put together over bumps and other divots on the road. The suspension for the model features a MacPherson front strut and a multi-link rear setup. Disc brakes come as standard, and wheel sizes range from 17 inches for the base models and 19-inches for the top-spec GT Line trim. 

The powerplant in the Kia Sportage is either a 2.0-liter gasoline engine or a 2.0-liter turbodiesel. Both motors send power to the front wheels but through different transmissions. The gas variant features a 6-speed automatic, while the diesel is mated to an 8-speed transmission with Shiftronic. The gasoline mill can be found in the Sportage's base trim, the LX AT. The 2.0-liter petrol-powered motor produces a total of 153 hp and 192 Nm of torque. Meanwhile, the diesel engine found in the LX AT Diesel and GT-Line variants, feature power figures of 182 hp and 400 Nm of torque, making for exceptional pulling performance. 

Piloting the Kia Sportage, especially with its diesel motor, is a breeze. The engine is well-paired with the chassis of the car. The steering is light, the dimensions of the vehicle were compact enough the fit through tight city streets. The early torque and power that you get from the motor are enough for your daily commute or a long-distance journey. Handling is good with not as much body roll as most high-riding crossovers have. 

All diesel variants of the Sportage come equipped with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system that has Bluetooth, USB, and AUX-in connectivity. The head unit is also capable of smartphone pairing via USB with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Across the entire lineup, the cabin gets a 4 + 2 speaker setup allowing for good sound quality. As for other features, the Sportage comes standard with Kia's analog-digital combo information cluster along with standard power features such as side mirror adjustment, and power windows. 

The top of the line Sportage, however, gets even more impressive with its feature list. You get a smart entry system, push-button start, cruise control, a rear-camera display with a park guide, front and rear sensors, as well as dual-zone automatic climate control. 

On the outside, the Sportage features a design that prominently places Kia's signature tiger-nose grille up-front-and-center. Top of the line trims will get LED headlamps, DRLs, and taillamps, which are exclusive to the GT-Line model. Also for the top trim, gloss black accents replace the body-colored bits that lower variants have, and instead of 17s, a two-tone 19-inch set of wheels adds visual interest to the crossover. 

Inside, the Sportage features a good selection of materials that feature soft touchpoints and good fit and finish. As you go up the variant lineup, better materials and upholsteries will be used. In the GT-Line variant, you get leather-wrapped touchpoints which include areas like the door cards, steering wheel, gear selector, armrest, and also the seats. The accents in the interior feature either a plastic or metal finish that adds a touch of variety to the cabin. 

Being a compact crossover, the Sportage features good space for 5 passengers, as well as an ample rear cargo area. The rear seats can be folded down to free up more room for bulkier items.