Kia Sportage line-up expands but one variant and trim hits the mark
Kia has introduced Australia's most loved mid-size SUV in four powertrains, four trim levels, 12 variants, and nine colours from Clear White to a slick new Wolf Grey and Heritage Blue.
With options ranging from a $37,990 (plus on-road-costs) front-wheel drive 2.0-litre petrol to a GT-Line AWD hybrid ($60,000 plus-on-road costs).
There's no shortage of choice, with the line-up including a 2.0-litre petrol, 1.6-litre turbo petrol, a 2.0-litre turbo diesel (AWD only) or a 1.6-litre hybrid, in either front or all-wheel drive, and across four trim levels (S, SX, SX+ and GT-Line).
The auto giant has also kept the diesel, which means its one of the only brands offering it among its direct competitors, following the exit of the Hyundai Tucson, Mazda CX-5 and Volkswagen Tiguan.
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The exterior has had some tasteful updates including new front and rear bumpers, restyled LED headlights and a revised LED tail-light signature.
Every variant now gets a two-spoke steering wheel which feels a little chunky for someone with small hands but looks great. Plus a 12.3-inch infotainment screen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Wireless phone charging is now included from SX+ upwards.
The GT-Line now features a curved 12.3-inch digital driver display, ambient mood lighting and heated rear seats.
While the GT-Line grabs headlines, it's a little pricey, asking for over $60,000 in hybrid AWD form, that's $13,000 more than the base petrol S. That's why the SX+ hits the mark, priced at $47,080 (plus on-road costs) for the turbo petrol AWD, it comes with 19-inch alloy wheels, heated front seats and steering wheel, dual-zone climate control, Harmon Kardon premium audio, wireless phone charging and smart key and hands-free power tailgate.
While the diesel still appeals to many buyers and the base petrol remains the most affordable entry point ($37,990), new emission regulations mean the petrol may be on its way out, which makes the Hybrid the sweet spot.
The Hybrid is now offered in SX and GT-Line trims and for the first time you can opt for either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.
I tested the hybrid and was genuinely impressed by how well it handles everyday driving.
The 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine with a 44.74kW electric motor delivers a combined 173kW and 367Nm, the most powerful configuration in the Sportage line-up.
Around town, it's calm and composed, with the electric motor doing most of the heavy lifting at low speeds. Acceleration is smooth and surprisingly punchy when you ask for it. It's paired to a six-speed automatic transmission and feels refined.
The hybrid claims 4.9L/100km combined for FWD and 5.3L/100km for AWD, real world figures weren't far off.
Boot space is generous with 586 litres (seats up) and 1827L with seats down, perfect for families. There's also a full size spare wheel in petrol and diesel models.
Safety is consistent across the board with all trims offering Kia's full suite of advanced driver assistance systems, including AEB with junction assist, lane following assist 2, and blind spot collision avoidance.
Verdict
The Kia Sportage offers plenty of choice for Aussie families, whether you want petrol, diesel or hybrid, front-wheel or all-wheel, basic or luxurious, there's something for every buyer. Just be ready to do your homework. If you want something under $50k, efficient with plenty of technology and comfort, I'd opt for the hybrid FWD (1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine with electric motor), trim level SX for approximately $46,450 plus on road-costs, certainly seems like the sweet spot.
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