Kia Sportage

Test-drove the Sportage during the MCF-Kia Hangout on 9 May.

First impressions was positive with lots of gadgets to fiddle around with. Adjustments for height and reach were easily done via the electric seat controls. The same is said for the window adjustments. Flex steer offers 3 stages of steering control and I chose the Normal mode as Comfort was very light.

Pulling away from stationery was easily accomplished and at test-drive speeds, it felt strong and composed. A small press of the accelerator was often enough to get the car moving briskly and keep up with traffic along Alexandria Road.

The ride springs were slightly stiff as road bumps are felt clearly, but understandably in a tall SUV. Absorption of uneven surfaces was however excellent. NVH were all very well muted and the usual noises seemed very far away in the very comfortable, but dark-trimmed cabin. Despite the stiffness, however, body roll was somewhat evident although never alarming at all times.

The switches are continental in arrangement and click solidy. Dash instruments were well arranged and easy on the eyes. Auto-lights and DRLs are standard, a good classy feature.

Despite its size and stature, the Sportage is easy to drive and parking is a cinch with the embedded rear view mirror-camera combo. It never felt intimidating at any point. Rear windows are naturally small but more than compensated by the large wing mirrors. The tall driving position adds to the easy manoeuvrability.

Overall, a very accomplished effort by Kia, in all aspects of look, drive and technology.

We didn't know what to expect from such an SUV, this being the first we've owned. But the first test drive completely blew our mind.

The interior is constantly silent during our commute and the height gave an excellent view during driving.

All the gadgetry that came with the car also added to the driving comfort and overall, we are extremely happy with the purchase.

Generally, the drive was absolutely fuss-free with its smartly interior design dashboard layout in reaching its well equipped features. Such combined features are usually being packaged by luxury vehicles. The tan leather seat (SX model) give a feel of comfort and durability when on board.

Tried crusing along the most inner lane on expressway whereby are oftenly uneven, to my surprize, car insulation was beyond my expectation with a relatively large 18" wheels. With its 2.0-litre and 166bhp engine, needless to be heavy-footed on the accelerator and you could feel the car crusing forward smoothly with 6-speed automatic transmission.

In all, the Sportage is a compelling proposition in the market. Read an acticle saying: you will never go wrong by signing on the dotted line for it....

Overall i like the cool sporty styling the exterior styling and the fuss free interior design of the car.

The back seats are quite comfortable for two full size adult and there is enough head and leg room both at the back and at the front. I really love the sunroofs for the 2.0 SX version and the 1,998 cc 4-cylinders DOHC dual CVVT engine even thought the noise level could be improved. I also like the 6 speed automatic gearbox as it is better compare to the Forte's 4 speed automatic gearbox. Both then it is not as value for money when you could get yourself a larger and more powerful sorento (EX) if you add another one thousand over dollars (Comparing a Sportage SX to a Sorento EX)

or another 12,801 dollars for a Sorento SX model.

After boarding the vehicle, I felt the space provide in the front were wide, sufficient leg room and the seat fit me well (above mid build).

The interior gadgets is something that I need not to say "well equip".

Leg room is good but seating space for 3 adult were to be like a standard Saloon Vehicle (tight) and rear mirror will be obstruct totally.

The drive was a little hard for passenger behind as commented as I tried to drive on uneven surface (maybe it's an SUV).

During takeoff, I accelerated a little harder and you will hear the engine roar (slightly to the sharper pitch) but… the speed is picking up. For normal traffic change's acceleration, it's smooth.

U turn was well negotiated, take up about 2.5 lane.

90 degree filter/ turn, run in smoothly but you will have to take note as you view are limit to the obstruction of the side board and mirror (Blindspot). The side beam is slightly thicker together with the mirror. My view on my left can cover the whole pathment.

Braking respond is good, reversing the vehicle is manageable for the size of a Sportage.

For some may feel the rear window too small. From the rear mirror, you are like looking into a telescopic.

Overall for now, this Sportage look HOT and COOL to be driven.