Kia’s flash but frugal SUV
Kia has made its new Sportage specifically with Europe in mind, but does it have what it takes to still be a sales hit?
The Sportage might just be the most important car in Kia’s line-up. It’s the South Korean firm’s bestselling model in the UK, and this new fifth-generation version is the first specifically made with Europe in mind. It’s not at all surprising that the Sportage is a big seller though, offering good value for money in the
SUV market, which typically targets families. This new model brings smart new looks and a wide range of powertrains.
WHAT’S NEW?
The new model is bespoke to the European market and comes with a choice of petrol, diesel, mild hybrid and hybrid powertrains at launch, with a plug-in hybrid powertrain on the way. It gets Kia’s new ‘Opposites United’ design philosophy that was first seen on the EV6 and is built on the firm’s new ‘N3’ vehicle platform. There’s a modernised, tech-heavy interior, with a cool switchable screen in the middle, as well as extensive driver assistance technology.
There are eight powertrains on offer, but we’re testing the regular hybrid model. There’s no plug-in power here (that model comes later) but this model combines a 1.6-litre petrol engine with an electric motor to provide a healthy 226bhp and 350Nm of torque. Fuel economy comes in at 48.7mpg on the official tests, and we achieved about 47mpg. With this not being a plug-in, the battery is pretty small, so don’t expect to be pootling all over town with zero emissions. Instead, the hybrid Sportage slips into EV mode at low speeds just to stop the petrol unit being used when it’s at its most efficient.
WHAT’S IT LIKE INSIDE?
The interior, meanwhile, is a definite hit. The driving position is quite high, even in its lowest setting, but once you get past that it’s clear Kia has spent a lot of time (and money) bringing the Sportage’s cabin up to 2022 standards. Entry-level ‘2’ trims get an eight-inch touchscreen, but all other models get a 12.3inch unit that sits proudly in a long, sweeping unit alongside the digital instruments. Beneath that is a quirky innovation, with two physical dials either side of a display that can be switched between heating systems and radio controls, with the dials changing function depending on the screen that’s selected. It’s pretty spacious too, though it’s worth noting that hybrid models have a slightly smaller boot because of the battery pack.
HOW DOES IT LOOK?
While the new styling language looked great on Kia’s EV6, it hasn’t translated quite so seamlessly to the Sportage.
It’s not the biggest SUV on the market and it looks like Kia has tried to cram too much design into too little package, giving it a slightly awkward stance. That said, there’s a definite premium appeal and the South Korean brand has done a great job of lifting the Sportage’s quality.
THE VERDICT
Updating your bestselling model is always a nervewracking moment for a car manufacturer? However, with the new Sportage, Kia appears to have hit the nail on the head by creating a genuinely appealing family car that’s refined without losing any character. The wide range of engine options and impressive equipment levels will only make it more appealing, while the introduction of the ultraefficient plug-in hybrid soon will add yet another dimension.