The Sportage is Kia's best-selling model globally. In its fourth-generation, the vehicle cemented its credentials with a blend of versatility, attractive design, commendable build quality and competitive pricing.
Now the fifth-generation has landed in Mzansi. If social media is anything to go by, reactions to our images from the launch were positive. The latest sport-utility vehicle is daring in appearance, which will help it stand out in a crowded segment. We drove it in the Western Cape.
The first-generation Sportage debuted in 1993 and was in production for 10 years. Did you know it was the first production vehicle in the world to offer a knee airbag? In 2004 the second-generation debuted. While it did not win any beauty contests, it earned a reputation for reliability. To this day, a family member of mine uses their old Sportage hassle-free.
But the real game-changer was the third-generation model, introduced in 2010. It unveiled a new styling language (with the distinctive “tiger nose”) and elevated Kia's persona. The fourth-generation built on this, with an even more upmarket feel. Commentators used words such as “premium” and “refined” to describe the model.
There is plenty to admire about the latest version. The boomerang-shaped headlights, latest evolution of the “tiger nose” and chrome embellishments are difficult to ignore. At the rear, a fastback-inspired swoop leads into the light clusters, adding a sporty feel to the overall profile.
Depending on the grade, the Sportage rides on 17-, 18- or 19-inch wheels, with a wide choice of exterior colours. Experience Green and Splash Lemon are among the more vibrant.
Inside there is no denying its superiority. Our high-grade tester wowed with its sumptuous leatherette and soft-touch materials. A 12.3-inch infotainment screen takes centre stage, compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, as well as voice recognition.
Across the range as standard are USB type-C charging ports in the front, with two in the rear. Kia has done away with the entry-level Ignite and Ignite Plus grades in this model, consolidating them into the new LX grade, while enhancing the mid-tier EX-grade models.
The LX interior sports cloth seats, with artificial leather for the gear-shifter and steering wheel. It rides on 17-inch wheels and features standard LED headlamps, a reverse camera, dual automatic temperature control and cruise control.
The middle-grade EX has 18-inch wheels, cloth and artificial leather combination upholstery, electric seat adjustment for the driver and a heated steering wheel. Front and rear seats are heated.
We drove the range-topping GT-Line S, which has all the bells and whistles. These include deluxe scuff plates, alloy pedals, an electric tailgate, artificial leather on suede upholstery and a full suite of driver-assistance features. Lane-keeping, lane-following and blind-spot warning aids are part of the deal. A panoramic roof and 19-inch wheels complete the package.
Under the hood, all models use the 1.6 T-GDI petrol engine. This is good for 132kW and 265Nm of torque. The drive proved pleasant, with a comfortable ride quality and enough power to navigate situations that needed extra grunt. The overall feeling one gets from the drive is that of refinement and extensive under-skin engineering.
Models and pricing:
Kia Sportage 1.6 T-GDi LX: R539,995
Kia Sportage 1.6 T-GDi EX: R593,995
Kia Sportage 1.6 T-GDi GT-Line: R649,995
Kia Sportage 1.6 T-GDi GT-Line Plus: R677,995
Kia Sportage 1.6 T-GDi GT-Line S: R 734,995
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