Transmission

The type of transmission fitted to your Sportage depended on the engine you chose, as not all combinations were on offer. Opting for 1.6 petrol or 1.7 diesel power got you a six-speed manual gearbox with front-wheel drive, with only 2.0-litre engines getting the option of a six-speed automatic. The bigger petrol unit could be fitted with a five-speed manual box, with the diesel getting a sixspeeder, with either option for the larger engines bringing standard Dymax fourwheel drive. Developed by specialists Magna Powertrains, the Dymax system usually sent 100% of torque to the front wheels, but could divert 40% rearwards via an electro-hydraulically activated multi-plate clutch if slip was detected. There was no low-range setting on offer, but any owners tempted to head off-road could select a manual locking mode which gave a 50/50 torque split up to 25mph.

Manual transmissions were essentially a revised version of those found on the second-generation Sportage but with improved synchromesh, and neither those nor the automatics give trouble unless abused.

Some owners will have taken advantage of the impressive towing ability – up to 2000kg for a braked trailer – so it’s worth checking that clutches aren’t ailing. A quick check underneath for any damage caused by clumsy off-roading is also worthwhile, although it’s unlikely any cars ventured very far into the rough.