2009 Kia Sportage: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The 2009 Kia Sportage gets slightly freshened styling. This compact SUV is a crossover that shares its basic design with the Hyundai Tucson from Kia's corporate parent. Sportage offers three models: LX with a 140-hp 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine, and LX V6 and EX with a 173-hp 2.7-liter V6. The 4-cylinder teams with a manual or automatic transmission, the V6 with automatic only. All versions offer front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. The AWD lacks low-range gearing, but a dashboard switch locks in a 50/50 front and rear power split. Maximum towing capacity is 1500 lb with the 4-cylinder and 2000 lb with the V6. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, front side airbags, and curtain side airbags. An EX Luxury Package adds leather upholstery and heated front seats. Sportage's performance and accommodations mirror those of similarly equipped Tucsons.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Among utility vehicles, Compact SUVs are typically 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; some offer seating for seven.

Our Best Buys are the Honda CR-V, Suzuki Grand Vitara, and Volkswagen Tiguan. Our Recommended picks are the Saturn Vue and Toyota RAV4.

New or significantly redesigned models include the GMC Terrain, Subaru Forester, and Volkswagen Tiguan.