KIA SPORTAGE 1,7 CRDI IGNITE PLUS

AS the Sportage’s odo neared the 15 000 km mark, I thought I’d nd out when the vehicle’s rst service was due. The rst Kia dealership I called told me that diesel-powered Sportage models require a 20 000 km service, while petrol versions were due every 15 000 km. After twice clarifying what sounded like skewed information, I called a few more dealerships. To my surprise, only two out of the ve (multi-franchise) service departments stated – as later con rmed by Kia Motors South Africa – that all Sportage models require a service every 15 000 km.

Its tune-up complete, the Sportage continues to deliver exceptional levels of comfort and re nement. Even on days when an N2 commute conspires to test my resolve, the easygoing nature of the 1,7 CRDI’S drivetrain, including its healthy reserves of torque and slick manual transmission, come to the fore, making light work of slow-moving traf c.

As impressive as this manual gearbox is, there’s no doubt that the buying trend within this particular segment favours the convenience of an automatic transmission. That said, it’ll be interesting to note what drivetrain changes, if any, are included with the local Sportage range’s imminent facelift. Cosmetically, expect the updated line-up to feature a revised bumper and headlamp treatment, as well as a few small interior upgrades.

The recent rainfall in the Cape has highlighted a speci cation item not included in the otherwise well-equipped Ignite Plus package. As expected, it’s not a chore to manually operate the speed of the windscreen wipers as opposed to relying on a sometimes-erratic automatic function.