WHEN
you look at the third-generation Kia
Sportage 4×2 diesel variant, there is no doubt that it exudes a robust visual
presence. Aside from the aesthetics, it is also engaging to drive with its balance of
sportiness, form and functionality.
The
fascia radiates with Kia’s
signature tiger-nose front grille, which complements the projector-type
headlights that stretch to the fenders. It is evidence of Kia styling chief Peter Schreyer’s
design approach, which is unique to every modern Kia vehicle. The body lines
and contours, which form an elegant aura, also add to the aerodynamics, with
the lower rear roofline extending to the tail gate. Black trim surrounding the
underneath panels supplements the solid styling.
Yet,
there’s a different story once you’re inside the five-seater cabin. Although
the interior layout is modern and ergonomic, the materials used lean toward practical,
rather than elegance. True to its functional purpose, switches and controls are
straight-forward and within reach of the driver. It may not
have the usual modern bells and whistles, but there are several essential
amenities and interior-design cues. The combination of the sunken cup holders
in the center console and elevated arm rest prevents any distraction when
operating the short shifter. You wouldn’t miss a glimpse of the enlarged and
well-illuminated analog gauges that are perfectly visible through the chunky
and grippy steering wheel. Seats are wrapped in fabric, giving a perfect hug.
Rear passengers will enjoy the ample legroom and available aircon vent for a
more comfortable ride. Despite lacking an automatic climate-control system, the
manually activated blower and thermostat proved to be capable of wrapping the
occupants in a blanket of coldness. For a moment, one wouldn’t think it runs
with diesel, since there is minimal noise inside the cabin apart from the
tire-tread echoes.
The
powertrain is the Sportage’s
most compelling feature. Given the engine’s performance, it seems capable of
going head-to-head with popular Japanese SUVs, which sport bigger
displacements. With the 2.0-liter CRDI turbocharged and intercooled diesel engine,
driving was
amazingly fun. You don’t need a dynamometer to validate the declared figures
once you get to drive the Sportage.
With maximum torque available within the low-end range, acceleration was
instantaneous, so forceful, in fact, that it demonstrated swift overtaking and
made every ascent almost irrelevant. On steep climbs, this writer almost forgot
about the fact that the vehicle was a front driver; it left no hesitation
when summoned to scramble. Once you reached the midrange, it produced a
distinct grunt before unleashing more boost. Transferring power to the front
wheels is a six-speed automatic transmission with manual mode. It exhibited
seamless operation and stayed within low-engine speeds in the final drive—a fuel-efficiency
feature. Shifting was almost executed in real-time with the manual mode,
allowing the engine to stay within the power band during passing and supporting
the engine braking when needed.
As for
the suspension, the test unit showed adaptability on different terrains. It may
be a little bouncy on bad pavement but it’s surprisingly stable and smooth on
level roads, even with random variations. The 17-inch alloy wheels, wrapped
with 225/60 series tires, handled rubble without any rebound. On turns and
curves, there were no excessive body roll and twists from the relatively stiff
dampers. And together with the responsive electronic steering, handling and
control were impressive. There’s more than enough stopping power with the large
diameter four-wheel disc brakes. The Antilock Braking System performed well on
hard braking, maintaining steering direction.
This
writer sees the Kia Sportage
as a countryside dweller with the versatility to drive around urban areas. It
is great for traversing highways or in extreme road conditions, given its
unyielding execution. On the other hand, its practical interior is ideal for
out-of-town trips without the worries of soiling the upholstery. The minimalist
switches and controls allow you to focus and enjoy the driving dynamics.
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