Kia Sportage 2016 Video Review

Kia Sportage Video Review Transcript

The best thing about modern SUVs is that they are as easy to wield as a hatchback or saloon. The new Kia Sportage is no different.

It’s exceptionally easy to drive, with light steering and decent visibility. So, if you feel put off by the chunky looks of an SUV, don’t be. They are very simple to drive.

Under the bonnet of our test car is Kia’s 116 PS 1.7 liter turbo diesel engine, which has enough punch to get the new Kia to 60 miles per hour in 11.1 seconds. This is just about all the performance you need in an SUV. Sheer pace isn’t the goal, here. Instead, it’s far better to focus on a smooth pulling and relatively quiet diesel unit, and that’s exactly what the 1.7 turbo diesel does. Some may be disappointed that this engine doesn’t come with the option of an automatic transmission, but the the six-speed manual is actually very good, and for most, will be perfectly adequate.

We all hope the latest model will improve upon the outgoing one, but it’s a real step up in handling quality this time around. The new Kia Sportage handles incredibly well on the road, feeling sharp and nimble for a car that looks quite chunky. There is plenty of grip in the corners and a fair amount of communication to the driver, too, which is something rare in an SUV.

Design and looks are subjective, of course, but we think the new generation takes a step backwards in terms of exterior design. Build quality is particularly impressive in the new Kia Sportage, which is a trait carried over from the last generation. The cockpit trim is impressively solid to the touch, and all the buttons and materials feel like they come from a more expensive car. As long as your passengers aren’t giants, there’s good room in the back for both legs and heads, and there’s a decent level of space in the boot for belongings, too. 491 liters of space is available to be filled, and this increases to 1,480 when the rear seats are folded down.

Kia offers particularly high levels of standard equipment on its cars. We’ve been driving the 2-level trim, which has just about everything most buyers will need, and represents the best value in the new Kia Sportage lineup. At level 2, you get dual-zone air conditioning, rear parking sensors, and a very useful reversing camera, satellite navigation, speed limit display, and automatic high-beam headlights.

Outside, the car looks far more expensive than you’d think, with a strong style, if you like the new face, and statement alloy wheels. As a bonus, all new Kias get the seven-year, 100,000-mile warranty, one of the best on the market. So, with a fair deposit, this high-quality SUV can be on your drive for around £200 a month, making it accessible to families and younger people. It’s excellent value considering the amount of car you get for your money, and its rivals will find it hard to match. Let’s not forget that long warranty, too.[vc_btn title=”Read the full Kia Sportage review here” color=”purple” align=”center” link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Fwww.osv.ltd.uk%2Fkia%2Fsportage-estate||target:%20_blank|”]

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