The 2011 Kia Sportage is currently a favorite in the market, thanks to its head-turning exterior and classy interior. Although it’s pretty small, the Sportage packs a lot in the design department.
Exterior & Interior
The exterior of this midsize SUV is pretty good with the front end curving towards an appealing top and then tapers downwards. The Sportage’s practically classic shape is a definite eye-turner. Coming in colors like red and silver, this Kia vehicle is not exactly stunning but good – looking enough to turn heads.
Specifications
| Vehicle Type: Mid SUV | Base Price: $18,500.00 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity: 15.3 gallons (58 liters) | MPG: 21 city / 29 hwy |
| Length: 174.8 in. (444 cm) | Width: 73 in. (185 cm) |
| Height: 64.4 in. (163.5 cm) | Wheel Base: 103.9 in. (263 cm) |
| Curb Weight: 3157 lbs (1432 kg) | Ground Clearance: 6.7 in. (17 cm) |
| Luggage Capacity: 26.1 cu ft | Maximum Seating: 5 people |
| Engine: 2.4L 16-Valve DOHC Inline-4 | Displacement: 2359 cc |
| Horsepower: 176 HP | Max RPM: 6000 RPM |
| Torque: 168 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm | Transmission: 6-Speed Manual OD |
| 0-60 mph: 7.2 seconds | Max Towing Capacity: 2000 lbs (907 kgs) |
| Option:Sportage EX FWD | MSRP: $23,900; MPG: 22 city / 32 hwy |
| Option:Sportage LX FWD | MSRP: $20,800; MPG: 22 city / 32 hwy |
| Option:Sportage SX FWD | MSRP: $26,900; MPG: 22 city / 29 hwy |
| Option:Sportage SX AWD | MSRP: $28,400; MPG: 21 city / 26 hwy |
The interior of the Kia Sportage is actually remarkable with a combination of materials that are of high quality. Compared to other cars that are within the same price range – like the Honda CR-V – the Sportage’s interior is definitely better. With the design mostly done in black with textures pleasing to the touch, the interior gives off a “sporty” vibe to its users. The model can comfortably sit up to five people and capable of carrying adequate cargo.
Performance
Packing a 176 horsepower with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, the Sportage is less sleek than it looks. The handling is actually a bit sloppy with the steering wheel putting up a fight thanks to its heavy weight. Owners will find that the ride is not exactly smooth, making it only ideal for day to day driving in the city.
The placement of controls in the interior however is admirable. Owners would find it easy to navigate through the car and would likely take a short time to master the vehicle.
Safety & Reliability
Being chosen as the Top Safety Pick by significant members of the Insurance industry basically makes the Sportage an excellent car when it comes to safety. An electronic stability system is installed in the car as well as overall strength against impact. Standard safety measures are all installed in the Sportage including the airbags that encompass even second row passengers.
Pros & Cons
What’s great about the Sportage is its tech system with a navigation system that works like a pro. The car also comes with a differential lock and a voice command that allows users to control the car for different purposes – like dialing by name. Unfortunately, the engine didn’t catch some of the advance tech benefits, placing it firmly within the average scale.
There are also optional moon roofs, which can be very entertaining for those who want to use the car for across-city drives. For families, this can be an excellent way to keep the kids happy during traffic.
Exterior and interior are beyond customer expectations with Kia delivering a flawlessly shaped vehicle. Sadly, handling of the Sportage is not exactly smooth, which means that it is best reserved for city driving.
The Competition
All in all, the 2011 Kia Sportage makes for an excellent multipurpose vehicle. Kia beats out some of the competition in terms of design and safety. The horsepower is pretty good but with the rough ride, it may not be worth it. On the other hand, the car provides excellent safety for its passengers.
The Honda CR-V (MSRP $21,895; 21 city / 28 hwy), Ford Escape (MSRP $21,240; 23 city / 28 hwy), and the Nissan Rogue (MSRP $21,460; 22 city / 28 hwy) are among those vying for the same attention as the Sportage.
Considering the many factors and features, the Kia Sportage is an adequate buy for those who want something inexpensive and durable. For those who don’t, the good news is that a Turbo model is being planned. Hence, those who are willing to hold out, Kia may release an upgrade of the Sportage soon so they might get a better deal on that one.
Overall Rating
74 out of 100
What others say:
“Kia hits game reset, and gives the 2011 Sportage an appealing new look and feel.”Car Connection
“Body lean is well-checked in fast turns, but the steering feels somewhat light and lifeless, at least on the LX and EX.”Consumer Guide
“A sporty alternative in the growing crossover utility segment, the 2011 Kia Sportage should attract customers with its sleek looks, and turbo power will make it sportier.”MSN Auto
“The 2011 Kia Sportage offers many improvements over the previous-generation Kia crossover, and now the Sportage matches up with the best crossover SUVs in the class.”Edmunds
