Both cars are essentially the same and roll off the line in the same factory in Slovakia. The engine line-up will be the same (for the time being the Sportage is available with just a 2.0-litre diesel) and both have two- and four-wheel drive. For other engines, you'll be waiting until at least November - the same problem as to why the ix35 is suffering delays. The 'First Edition' Sportage, which is the only spec available on Sportage at the moment, is generously equipped, but the big alloys and bright colours (see pictures here), may be a bit loud for some.

Rear legroom is largely the same on both cars - and very good at that. The real clincher is the warranty and how long you plan to keep it for. If you're a high mileage driver, the Hyundai may be a better bet as it's five years/unlimited miles. The Kia's is seven years/100,000 miles, which is better if you do fewer miles and plan to keep the car for a while. In case you haven't seen the reviews on the site, here's the links: ix35: www.honestjohn.co.uk/carbycar/hyundai/ix35-2009. Sportage: www.honestjohn.co.uk/carbycar/kia/sportage-2010