Kia Sportage Burns More Rubber, Less Gas
Kia has overhauled the new 2011 Kia Sportage to deliver a wholly more competitive model for the compact SUV market. Along with more aggressive styling, the Sportage also receives a more powerful and thriftier engine. Keep reading to review improved mpg figures and other specs for the new 2011 Kia Sportage.
New 2011 Kia Sportage Styling
The first change you'll notice in the Kia Sportage is the bold new exterior. In a compact market filled with conservative competitors, the sweeping roofline and intriguing front fascia help make the Kia Sportage one of the most attractive crossovers for the year. High wheel wells, slanted headlights and a large windshield only serve to further boost the vehicle's truly sporty design.
Inside, the Sportage delivers a roomy interior and a good amount of cargo space (maximum cargo is 55 cubic feet). While the vehicle comes with its fair share of hard plastics, this is to be expected given the low $18,295 base price.
If the new Kia reminds you a bit of the Hyundai Tuscon, then your eyes do not deceive you. The two affordable SUVs share some of the same components.
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New 2011 Kia Sportage Performance
The 2011 Sportage swaps out last year's zippy V-6 for a more efficient four-cylinder engine. The thriftier model delivers an impressive 176 horsepower and comes mated to either a six-speed manual or automatic transmission. More importantly for green car shoppers, the Sportage now earns an estimated 22 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. That's a 12-percent boost in gas mileage over last year's figures.
For those hungry for maximum power, a turbocharged version of the four-cylinder will be available in early 2011. This Sportage SX model will boast approximately 200 horsepower.
In terms of handling, the Sportage offers a stiff, confident suspension and fairly nimble handling. It is also an easy vehicle to drive, with good proportions and visibility that make it a great SUV option for urban dwellers.
New 2011 Kia Sportage Features
The Sportage will initially be available in two trims - LX and EX. The base LX comes with a good mix of standard features including air conditioning, power everything, USB connectivity and Bluetooth. Plenty of enticing options are available as well, including navigation, heated/ventilated front seats, backup sensors, rearview camera, panoramic sunroof and paddle shifters.
The Sportage will also boast Kia's new Uvo infotainment technology. Like Ford's SYNC technology, this handy gadget allows for voice control of the stereo and other equipment.
New 2011 Kia Sportage Safety
The Kia Sportage is already receiving accolades for its safety features. Standard features include six airbags, anti-lock brakes, stability control and traction control. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has named the 2011 Sportage a "Top Safety Pick" for the year.
Kia Sportage Specifications
- Length: 174.8 inches
- Width: 73 inches
- Height: 64.4 inches
- Front head room: 39.1 inches
- Rear head room: 38.5 inches
- Rear leg room: 37.9 inches
- Max. Cargo: 55 cubic feet
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