motorhub Mar. 2015- May 2015 | Page 21

NEW MODELS KIA Sportage CAR PROFILE Price: $21,750 Body type: Sports Utility Seats: 5 Passengers Drive type: Front Wheel Drive Horsepower: 182@6000 rpm Towing Capacity: 2000 lbs Engine: 4 Cylinder 2.4L Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic Fuel Economy: MPG(21 City/28 H-way) Cargo Capacity: 54.6 cu.ft Safety: 5 airbags Length: 174.8” Wheelbase: 103.9” Curb weight: 3280 lbs MotorHub Magazine Courtesy: KIA Motors A gile handling and a powerful turbocharged engine option make the 2015 Kia Sportage fun to drive, reviewers say, but they add that its small cargo hold and firm ride may limit its appeal. It’s base 4-cylinder engine produces enough power to please most drivers. Test drivers praise the Kia Sportage’s agile handling, which they say is sportier than that of many competitors. Some automotive writers think the Sportage has responsive steering and strong brakes. Despite lots of plastic materials, reviewers agree that it has a handsome cabin and impressive build quality. Some test drivers think the Sportage’s front seats are comfortable, while others say the seats are too thinly padded. Its rear seats don’t have much legroom and it has poor outward visibility in most directions. It comes standard with satellite radio, Bluetooth and a USB port. Available features include a panoramic sunroof, a UVO eServices infotainment system, a 7-inch touch-screen navigation system, push-button start, dual-zone automatic climate control, a rear-view camera and rear parking sensors. 21 February 2015 Issue