Tinashe Makichi Motoring
The 2015 Kia Sportage is making a mark as one of the most visually interesting compact crossover models this year. You never get a second chance to make a first impression.

Sportage is not lacking in style, power or value. While the Honda CRV and Toyota RAV4 have evolved in improving space, Kia however managed to hold on to flair while improving its competitiveness on the market.

Whichever terrain you are in, the 2015 Sportage is the vehicle for you as it ready to face challenges while offering an exceptionally smooth ride and a range of first class features.

Grille and wheel designs were new for the 2014 version but the same feature has cascaded into 2015 hence remaining the most interesting design in the segment.

Kia’s entry has no history of SUV’s leaving it free to offer a more interesting driving experience in a car-like package. Off roading is not among the activities list for this small crossover but a choice of two four cylinder engines is therefore available.

The Sportage is more than just a pretty face but it is truly a compact crossover. Whether you are driving through urban streets or in the rural areas the Sportage 2015 feels more like a nimble hatchback than a high riding utility vehicle. The vehicle has capacity to handle all weather conditions meaning it is a utility vehicle.

Other strengths include an available 260 horsepower turbocharged engine which defines the sportish character engrossed in the Sportage.

KIA Motors Corporation recently unveiled new vehicle brands worth about $1 million in the Zimbabwean market as the vehicle manufacturing giant starts to consolidate its market share.

Among the vehicles unveiled was the Kia Sportage.

It’s all wheel drive is an option across the board, and comes with a differential lock that splits power at speeds up to 25 mph.

At the unveiling ceremony I failed to hide the affection and love that I had for the vehicle.

It was spacious with standard curtain airbags and stability control joined by optional rear parking sensors and rearview camera, which help with the Sportage’s sizable blind spots.

The Sportage lands at the small end of its class, and there is no magic that makes the interior feel any roomier. Back seat passengers may be a little tight on headroom and find themselves slumped forward, but Kia adds comfort for kids back due to the presence of rear vents.

Cargo space measures 26,1 cubic feet, more than some luxury utes, but it’s a tall space without a particularly large cargo floor, so choose your luggage wisely.

Cabin noise and ride quality have been weaknesses for the Sportage, compared to most other models in its class.

The six speed automatic is not the quickest shifting, but it’s measured and smooth. The automatic gets shift paddles for less distracted driving and better response.

Standard equipment on all three trim levels includes air conditioning, power windows, locks, and mirrors; a tilt/telescope steering wheel, keyless entry, 17 inch wheels, bluetooth, and USB/iPod connectivity.

Sportage boasts of 18 in alloy wheels, fog lights, rear spoiler, auto headlights, rear backup sensors, a cooling glove box, heated side mirrors, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, one-touch driver’s window, keyless entry, sun-visor illumination, Infinity premium audio, trip computer, a rear backup camera, UVO infotainment system, dual zone automatic climate control, heated front seats and a power driver’s seat with manual lumbar support.

Moving up to more expensive models adds features like keyless start, satellite radio, and steering-wheel audio and phone controls.

The Sportage starts with a 2,4-litre inline four cylinder engine .A six speed automatic transmission is the only transmission choice this year.

Fuel economy for the front wheel drive model is rated at 21 miles per gallon in the city and 28 miles per gallon on the highway.

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