THE MAGNIFICENT SEVEN

TO CAPITALISE ON THE SUCCESS OF ITS MULTIPLE AWARDWINNING COMPACT SUV, KIA HAS INTRODUCED SEVEN NEW DERIVATIVES TO THE SPORTAGE LINE-UP

THE Sportage is one of the most significant models in Kia’s arsenal. When it was introduced in South Africa, the first-generation Sportage impressed with its value-for-money approach and rugged reliability. It not only cemented Kia Motors SA’S standing in the local market, but also formed the launch pad for the successful company we know today.

Now in its fourth iteration, and with a bevy of awards already under its belt (including a Red Dot Award for design), the Sportage continues this impressive run and has evolved into a contemporary compact SUV. It possibly best embodies the transformation of Kia globally, further underlined by the brand’s first place in the 2016 JD Power Initial Quality Study.

However, the market for compact SUVS and crossovers is a hotly contested one, and to ensure it stays ahead of the competition, Kia has expanded the Sportage range to include seven new derivatives across various engine, transmission and trim options.

Kia customers were at the heart of these additions and continued research was used to determine which products to offer to be even more competitive. The primary objective was to give its customers more options in the Sportage range, but more importantly, to add value. An element that’s remained untouched, however, is the industry-leading five-year/unlimited km warranty, coupled with a five-year/90 000 km service plan.

So, what’s new?

IGNITE PLUS A SPOT OF LUXURY

In addition to the current entrylevel Ignite grade, Kia identified a need for a value offering that also has a higher standard specification. The company thus introduces a new specification line called Ignite PLUS.

Like the Ignite, these models come equipped with six airbags, ISOFIX anchorage points, downhill brake control and hill-start assist, ABS and ESC. Inside, the models features air-conditioning, rear park-distance control, steering controls, electric mirrors and windows, a radio/cd front loader with MP3/AUX/USB connectivity and Bluetooth functionality.

For its R7 000 extra per model, the Ignite PLUS adds foglamps, an electro-chromatic rear-view mirror and 17-inch alloy wheels.

SELF-SHIFTER WITHIN EASY REACH

A further must-have identified by Kia was the addition of an automatic transmission at the lower end of the range. As such, the 2,0 Petrol Ignite is now also available with a six-speed torque-converter automatic transmission.

DIESEL DERRING-DO

Bolstering the new Ignite PLUS range, the company has added a diesel-powered model at the lower end of the line-up. This will be an important model given the popularity of diesel grunt in local SUVS. The 1,7 CRDI Ignite PLUS model is powered by a punchy 1,7-litre turbodiesel engine, which is mated with a six-speed manual transmission. The engine produces 85 kw at 4 000 r/min and 280 N.m from 1 250 r/min.

PETROLHEAD? LOOK NO FURTHER

One of the most obvious gaps in the current range was the lack of a mid-spec petrol offering. To remedy this, Kia introduces EX specification to the 2,0 Petrol. All EX models offer the same standard items as the Ignite, but add front foglamps, front park-distance con- trol, smart starting, cruise control, leather upholstery and leather on the steering wheel.

PLUS EVEN MORE LUXURY...

Kia has also up-specced its midrange offerings with a second new specification grade, EX PLUS. As the name suggests, it comes ticked with the same boxes as the EX, but adds electric front seats, satellite navigation, rear-view camera and 19-inch alloys. This specification level has been added to both the 2,0 Petrol and 2,0 CRDI models, and should appeal to customers who want the looks and features of the SX, but do not necessarily have a need for all-wheel drive.