Kia Sportage in a class of its own

2013 Kia Sportage . . . Just as its aggressive exterior styling helps it stand out in a crowd, the handsome passenger cabin (right) gives it an edge over several better-known competitors

Fact Jeke Behind the Wheel
I have driven a number of sports utility vehicles and this past week I had a totally new experience behind the wheel of a versatile SUV that I believe is suited for both city and rural driving. This vehicle combines style and comfort. I am talking about the Kia Sportage. This SUV is a realistic alternative to other top small crossover SUVs on the market.

It has sharp styling inside and outside. It is actually more fun to drive than other crossovers, with a powerful and efficient engine and plenty of premium features amazing controls.

Although it has less cargo space, its handling and good looks makes up for this.

It has a comes with a 2,4-litre four-cylinder engine and a firm standard suspension that enables responsive handling.

I firmly believe that the suspension delivers above-average performance.

Its main competition is the Honda CRV, Toyota RAV4 and the Mazda CX7.

It’s a compact crossover SUV with seating for five.

Standard features on the base model include 16-inch alloy wheels, air-conditioning, cloth upholstery, 60/40 split-folding rear seats, cruise control, full power accessories, a tilt-only steering wheel, a four-speaker sound system with satellite radio, a CD player, an auxiliary audio input jack and an iPod/USB audio interface.

A higher spec Kia Sportage adds 17-inch alloy wheels, LED daytime running lights, rear privacy glass and key-less entry.

The convenience package adds a rear view camera, rear parking sensors, a rear spoiler, roof rack side rails, heated outside mirrors, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel and a rear cargo area cover.

Of course, for those with a deeper pocket, you can opt for the higher spec which includes a Premium package that bundles a panoramic sunroof, leather upholstery, heated front seats, a ventilated driver seat, key less entry/ignition, upgraded gauges and an auto-dimming rear view mirror.

The base models are only offered with a six-speed manual transmission, while all other versions come with a six-speed automatic with a manual-shift feature.

Standard safety features on all 2013 Kia Sportage models include anti-lock disc brakes, traction control and stability control, as well as hill descent and hill start control.

Inside are front-seat side airbags, full-length side curtain airbags and active front head restraints.

The equipment levels are good with all the usual must have “premium” brand items from automatic air-conditioning, ambient lighting, electrically operated windows and heated door mirrors, fast-thaw front windscreen, multi-function buttons in the steering wheel, multi-speaker sound system and a good security functions.

The great thing about this SUV is just how well it drives on the road under most conditions.

The drive grip in the dry or wet is immense.

The suspension is firm and the ride can be manageable on poorer road surfaces.

So looking at our ever-deteriorating road, handling will not be a big issue in this vehicle.

Its perfect for the business executive or the stay-at-home mum that has to ferry the three kids to school every day.

There is just enough space to fit grocery shopping, or that shared school run.

Just as its aggressive exterior styling helps it stand out in a crowd, the handsome passenger cabin gives it an edge over several better-known competitors.

There’s no shortage of hard plastic, but it’s nicely textured and there’s a good amount of padding where it’s needed.

Plastic can, however, be irritating.

Acceleration with the 2,4-litre engine is decent enough and the transmission works well though I kept reminding myself it’s not an automatic.

For pricing, engine specifications and availability KIA Zimbabwe will assist.

Till next week, stay alive, be safe and as always God bless you.