The New Kia Sportage
Published: 5th June 2004
Sportage Sheds Its Spare
Kia’s new Sportage, due to be unveiled later this year has lost its trademark rear-mounted spare tyre.
For the first time, the small SUV will have a clean rear end with up-lifting tailgate and separately opening glass panel.
The Sportage will be shown at the Paris Motor Show in September and goes on sale in Europe next year. It will be available in 2- and 4-wheel drive and powered by two petrol engines, 2-litre and 2.7-litre V-6 as well as a 2-litre diesel.
Pitched against such rivals as the Toyota RAV-4 and Honda CRV, the new Sportage has a much improved, more youthful look.
Showing off the new model, codename KM, to global distributors in Seoul, W J Cho, director of Kia’s overseas product marketing group, said "Sportage has increased passenger and luggage space and easier loading through the rear door."
Safety features include a side curtain airbag and the car is expected to gain a 4-star European NCAP rating. Stylistically the Sportage has larger headlamps, flared side panels and will ride on 215x16-inch tyres with the option of 235x16-inch for a slightly more sporty appearance.
Production start-up is scheduled for August this year and the name is definitely here to stay according to Cho.
"Sportage has been one of our most successful ever names – it evokes both a sporty image and portage, the ability to carry people and luggage. The new model retains its SUV exterior styling with a saloon-like ride along with wagon utility."
At Paris, Kia will also be showing off it JB concept, a preview of the Rio replacement due in late 2005 or early 2006.
For more information about the Kia model range [ click here ]
Kia Sportage
Our Kia Sportage Guide lists the full specification of the current UK Sportage range, including car prices, fuel consumption, dimensions and other vital data.
Price Range: n/a - £19,535
Body Style:
Fuel:
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Models in the range: 18
We have road tested the Kia Sportage, to read our in-depth car reviews:
Kia Sportage Review - Aug 2005
Kia Sportage Review - Nov 2006
Kia Sportage Review - Jan 2008
Our Car Buyer’s Guide covers all of the UK’s major new cars and includes CO2 ratings and car insurance groups. Data updated on the 6th July 2008
