| Overall Rating |
 |
| Description |
| Not recommended. The Sportage is dated but it does have one secret weapon - off-road ability. Inadequate when compared to more modern rivals and poor secondhand values. |
| Handling |
|
| Comfort |
|
| Quality & Reliability |
 |
| Performance |
|
| Roominess |
|
| Running Costs |
|
| Value for Money |
|
| Stereo/Sat Nav |
|
| Best Models |
| 2.0S |
| Replacement |
| 2005 |
|
| Road Test |
| If you want to turn heads in the high street don't buy a Kia Sportage. This is a small 4x4 designed for hard work and little else. Despite the occasional facelift, it can't match the likes of a Toyota RAV4 for looks but is very competitive off-road. The interior trim feels basic and there's limited space - at least equipment levels are reasonable. There's just one engine, a 2.0 petrol borrowed from Mazda which is thirsty and noisy when worked hard. If you are buying new, be careful of heavy depreciation. |
| Positive Points |
- Cheap family 4x4 with reasonable abilities
- Decent equipment for the money
- Appears well built and proving reliable so far
|
| Negative Points |
- Some rivals are roomier, especially in the back
- Road and wind noise; some body roll
- Not much safety equipment
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