Seven new KIA Sportage models

SIX SPEED AUTO BOX FOR ENTRY LEVEL IGNITE ʂ New 85kW 1.7 litre diesel engine debuts in the Ignite PLUS derivative.

Following the successful introduction of the allnew Kia Sportage to the South African market late in 2016, KIA Motors South Africa is now expanding the local Sportage model range with seven new and/or enhanced derivatives.

The first addition to the Sportage line-up sees the entry-level Sportage 2.0 Ignite model – thus far only available with a manual transmission – gain a six-speed automatic transmission sibling at a marginal premium over the manual derivative.

However, customers who value style above utility will be happy about the introduction of the new Sportage Ignite PLUS derivatives. The new Ignite PLUS specification sees the standard Ignite model gain several exterior enhancements, including the addition of front fog lights, as well as a wheel upgrade from 16-inch to 17-inch, while the interior gains an electrochromatic rearview mirror. The Sportage Ignite PLUS is available with Kia’s familiar 114kW/ 192Nm 2.0-litre petrol engine, as well as with a choice between sixspeed manual or six-speed automatic transmission.

The Ignite PLUS derivative also marks the debut of a 1.7-litre CRDI engine in the Sportage range as an alternative engine option. The new 1.7-litre turbodiesel engine develops 85kW of power at 4000rpm, and 280Nm of torque between 1250 and 2750 rpm. The Ignite PLUS CRDI will be available with a six-speed manual transmission.

Kia is now expanding the EX model grade with the addition of a 2.0-litre petrol option. The EX specification grade offers all of the features included in the Ignite grade, but adds significant additions such as an electric parking brake, front park distance control, rain-sensing wipers, cruise control, a Smart Key with Start/ Stop button, and electric folding side mirrors with integrated indicators.

Kia is also bolstering the EX models with the addition of two new EX PLUS derivatives, also with a choice between 2.0-litre petrol and 2.0-litre turbodiesel power, that slot in between the EX and SX all-wheel drive models.

The interior gains electric front seats, a rear-view camera as well as a 7-inch touchscreen with integrated satellite navigation.

The remainder of the Sportage line-up remains unchanged.