CDN PHOTO/BRIAN J. OCHOA
The Kia Sportage continues to get better with each new variant.
Just recently, the fourth-generation compact crossover arrived in our local streets and, as expected, the new version looks very promising.
The Gateway Group, dealers of Kia vehicles in the region, lent Cebu Daily News an EX variant for a weekend to give us more up close and personal time with the crossover.
From the first time we laid eyes on the new Sportage, we immediately fell in love with its bold yet elegant styling that is quite different from its predecessor.
We’re not saying that the previous generation didn’t impress but the all-new model seems to be better because of the combination of aggressive and sleek styling.
This is the reason why we used exterior photos of the vehicle for this article because we think it’s the Sportage’s good looks that hold the greatest appeal.
While the previous generation was all about being sexy, the new Sportage has a bit of aggressiveness in it because of its bolder front fascia that is highlighted by the huge “Tiger Nose” grille.
From the side, the new Sportage bears some similarity with its predecessor. (CDN PHOTO/BRIAN J. OCHOA)
The headlights represent the sexiness up front as they are sleek. Huge air dams that actually have purpose house the driving lamps. These air dams, together with the squinting headlights and dominating grille give the Sportage an elegant, though tough, look.
When you look at it from the side, the new version shows a bit of its predecessor especially with the way the windows are laid out. It still has a high belt line although the lower character line is cleaner this time around.
At the rear is also where the Sportage stands out. Both taillights are thinner and are connected to each other by a dummy reflector strip, creating a really cool look.
But the latest Sportage ain’t just impressive from the outside.
The latest Sportage’s unique taillight design gives it a sportier look. (CDN PHOTO/BRIAN J. OCHOA)
The cabin does have its strong points too. It offers more generous space than its predecessor. The driver and passenger have plenty of space, and those in the rear benefit from more leg room. All seats offer good back support, and the front ones feature plenty of adjustment. And, the steering wheel adjusts to the driver’s height and reach.
The new Sportage also has an athletic side in it, thanks to the 2.0-liter CRDi diesel engine that is backed up by an e-VGT system. This whole package gives the Sportage a maximum power of 178 ps @ 4,000 rpm (EURO 2 / 3) or 185 ps @ 4,000 rpm (EURO 4 / 5 / 6) and a max. torque of 41.0 kg·m @ 1,750~2,750 rpm.
The all-new Sportage is available in Kia dealerships in the cities of Talisay, Mandaue and Cebu.
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