Kia Sportage (2016 - 2021)
1.6T GDI 174bhp Gt-Line AWD 5dr SUV
Thirsty, but ace
Firstly I cant really fault the car for the price, there are some things that are not on the car that some may find odd.
Negatives first in the hope that Kia put them right.
No footwell courtesy lights, in a car with an all black interior its something that they should consider.
Dome lights in front are way to bright,
Dome lights in rear are way to dull.
Touchscreen interface clings to grease and looks grubby after a few minutes of use.
Centre console storage box insert would be nice (not available for handbrake models)
Gearbox/Gear selection, very notchy and low ratios mean you spend a lot of time here.
Entertainment system always defaults to radio, I have to keep selecting my phone, no default priority setting which would be nice.
No voice activated calls unless you have carplay with Siri (Siri requires data connection to work, so Apples issue really) or Android Auto.
Anything in glove box not secured will rattle like hell, suggest a soft interior to limit vibration.
Loads of unused space in spare tire well in the rear, a simple storage pan around the tire filling empty space would be a brilliant idea (see ford for inspiration)
No courtesy lights on the underside of the doors, so when you get out at night your not sure what your stepping into.
Exterior chrome trim gets watermarked (can be dealt with using a good quality wax for protection)
Now the review....
Acres of space, I mean lots of room, in the back you can recline the seats and even with 6ft1" driver at least 3 inches of space between the knee and back of chair. Loads of room in the front,
Ride height Is nice, suspension, firm but expected in an crossover
Nice interior, feels pricier than it is
Controls easy to see and use
Entertainment system offers lots and can see future updates offering more
Seats comfortable
Quiet ride (mine is petrol version) wind noise it 70+ but nothing major.
safety features excellent, lane assist, auto high beam adjustments, parking sensors and rear view camera very satisfying and easy to use.
Overall this is a great car for the money, not as refined as a ford (grand c-max pervious car) in the mechanical areas, but great features. Nice driving experience but agree there is little in the steering to provide good feedback, but I'm not racing it so not really a concern.
Engine performance in mine (174bhp) is lacking and struggles up hill in high gears so be prepared to change through the gears frequently. Its not going to win any races and its a bit sluggish off the line. it handles really well and the Dynamax system seems to work when needed.
One thing that has stunned me is the fuel economy. I am lucky if I get 32mpg. As of today (March 2017) it took £70 to fill and I got 400 miles out of the tank!. So this is an expensive car to run, my Grand Cmax 1.6 got 43mpg and was a better performer that this. The Sportage is a thirsty car but if family safety, day time driving and gadgets is what your after this is a great choice.
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About this car
Price | £18,795–£35,675 |
---|---|
Road Tax | Alternative fuel, C–K |
MPG | 36.2–68.9 mpg |
Real MPG | 74.9% |