2005 Kia Sportage: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Kia introduces a new compact SUV for 2005 with standard curtain side airbags. The '05 Sportage shares its car-type platform with the Hyundai Tucson produced by Kia's corporate parent. Sportage offers 4- or 6-cyl engines and a choice of front- or all-wheel drive. LX and EX models are available. Base LXs come with a 140-hp 4-cyl and a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission. LX V6s and EXs come with a 173-hp V6 and automatic only. All are available with AWD that lacks low-range gearing but has a dashboard switch that locks in a 50/50 front/rear torque split. Antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, traction control, and an antiskid system are standard. So are front side airbags and head-protecting curtain side airbags. An EX Luxury Package adds leather upholstery and heated front seats. Kia shares Hyundai's warranty of 5-years/60,000-mi. basic, 10/100,000 powertrain, and 5/unlimited roadside assistance.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 17 classes based on size, price, and market position. Among utility vehicles, Compact SUVs are the least costly and offer the best fuel economy. Most utilize a car-type chassis and are not designed for heavy-duty, off-road use. Nearly all are five-passenger vehicles.

Our Best Buys include the Ford Escape, Honda CR-V, Mazda Tribute, and the Mercury Mariner. Our Recommended picks are the Honda Element, Hyundai Tucson, Jeep Liberty, and Subaru Forester.