You
never get a second chance to make a first impression, which is probably why the
2015 Kia Sportage isn't lacking in style, power or value. To say the Sportage is big on visual impact is an
understatement. From its crisp, angular lines and taut proportions, to its
available 18-inch wheels, the Sportage will have your friends saying,
"That's really a Kia?"
The Sportage is more than just a
pretty face. It's a truly compact crossover. While this means that cargo
capacity is subpar, the benefits of downsizing are evident from behind the
wheel. Whether you're darting through urban streets or taking your time on a
rural byway, the Sportage feels more like a nimble hatchback than a high-riding
utility vehicle. Toss in the all-wheel-drive option, and the Sportage becomes a
year-round commuter that can handle almost any weather condition.
Other
strengths include an available 260-horsepower turbocharged engine, which really
puts the "Sport" in "Sportage."
Throw in adequate backseat room and a wealth of standard and optional features,
and it's clear that the Sportage's strong first impression is just the
beginning.
What's New for 2015?
There
are no major changes to the 2015 Kia
Sportage.
What We
Like
Distinctive
looks; fun to drive; excellent optional turbocharged engine; available UVO
voice-recognition system
What We Don't
Firm
ride; fuel economy falling behind newer competitors; limited cargo capacity;
narrow side glass creates blind spots
How Much?
$22,645-$35,000
Fuel Economy
The
Sportage starts with a 2.4-liter inline 4-cylinder engine rated at 182 hp and
177 lb-ft of torque. A 6-speed automatic transmission is the only transmission
choice this year. Fuel economy for the front-wheel-drive model is rated at 21
miles per gallon in the city and 28 mpg on the highway, while all-wheel-drive
models earn a slightly lower 19 mpg city/26 mpg hwy.
Exclusive
to the SX trim is a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline 4-cylinder that cranks out
260 hp and 269 lb-ft of torque. This is essentially the same engine featured in
the Optima midsize sedan. It's a gem, and it delivers strong, lag-free
acceleration that evokes fancier crossovers such as the BMW X3. Its fuel
economy is impressive, considering all that thrust: 20 mpg city/26 mpg hwy with
front-wheel drive and 19 mpg city/24 mpg hwy with all-wheel drive.
Standard Features & Options
The
2015 Kia Sportage comes in
three possible trims: LX, EX and SX.
The
Sportage LX ($22,645) includes an automatic transmission, 17-in alloy wheels,
cruise control, Bluetooth hands-free connectivity, audio controls on the
steering wheel, a tilt-telescoping steering column, reclining rear seats, rear
privacy glass, an AM/FM/CD stereo with six speakers, USB/iPod interface, air
conditioning and power functions for the windows, mirrors and door locks.
The Sportage EX
($26,045) adds 18-in alloy wheels, fog lights, rear spoiler, auto headlights,
rear backup sensors, a cooling glove box, heated side mirrors, leather-wrapped
steering wheel and shift knob, one-touch driver's window, keyless entry,
sun-visor illumination, Infinity premium audio, trip computer, a rear backup
camera, UVO infotainment system, dual-zone automatic climate control, heated
front seats and a power driver's seat with manual lumbar support.
The Sportage SX
($28,995) adds a 260-hp turbocharged engine, push-button start with Smart Key,
HID headlights, LED daytime running lights and rear taillights, power-folding
outside mirrors, voice-command navigation with a 7-in color touchscreen, and
unique 18-in alloy wheels.
The LX
can be equipped with the Popular package, which adds a trip computer, rear
spoiler, rear backup sensors, roof rails, a rear backup camera and the UVO
system. The EX Premium package adds leather seating, a panoramic sunroof,
navigation, power-folding outside mirrors, ventilated front seats and Smart Key
keyless entry with push-button start. The SX Luxury package adds the panoramic
sunroof, ventilated front seats, leather interior and a garage door opener.
Safety
The Sportage offers standard
stability control, 4-wheel anti-lock disc brakes, six airbags (front,
front-side, full-length side curtain) and active front head restraints.
The
2015 Sportage was a standout in government crash testing, scoring a perfect
five stars overall in both front- and side-impact tests. Likewise, the
independent Insurance Institute for Highway Safety rated the Sportage as Good
in all categories.
Behind
the Wheel
The
2015 Kia Sportage feels
intimate and sporty as soon as you sit behind the wheel, and a spirited drive
confirms this impression. Thanks to its firm suspension and responsive
steering, the Sportage engages the driver like few other affordable crossovers
can. Add the turbocharged engine to the mix, and you'll really have some fun.
The addition of sport dampers to all models means that ride quality may leave
something to be desired, so make sure you find rough pavement on your test
route to see if the Sportage's
ride suits you. Similarly, at times road noise is more intrusive than we'd
prefer.
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