2005-2008 Kia Sportage: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Kia introduced a new compact SUV for 2005 with standard curtain side airbags. The '05 Sportage shared its car-type platform with the Hyundai Tucson produced by Kia's corporate parent. Sportage offered 4- or 6-cyl engines and a choice of front- or all-wheel drive. LX and EX models were available. Base LXs came with a 140-hp 4-cyl and a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission. LX V6s and EXs came with a 173-hp V6 and automatic only. All were available with AWD that lacked low-range gearing but had a dashboard switch that locked in a 50/50 front/rear torque split. Antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, traction/antiskid control was standard. So were front side airbags and curtain side airbags. An EX Luxury Package added leather upholstery and heated front seats. Kia shared Hyundai's warranty coverage of 5-years/50,000-mi. basic, 10/100,000 powertrain, but only the basic warranty was transferable to a second owner.