Advantages: Good Turning Circle, economy, reliability Disadvantages: Low torque engine, short weelbase gives choppy ride
although you need to stir up the gearbox when the hills get steep (not a problem solo). On the way back from Spain there is a very long, very steep climb over the French Border, the speed dropped to 30mph but the car dug in its heels and made it up with no hint of over heating.
The only thing I would change if I could would be the petrol engine, a turbo-diesel would have been nicer for towing, it is revvy and not full of torque but it is reliable.
I am now looking to buy a Kia Sedona 2.9TD as this will make towing easier but I am hanging on to the Sportage and hope to write another review at 200,000 miles! ...
Advantages: Affordable fun 4x4 action Disadvantages: Splitting wheel hubs
The KiaSportage, well what can I say ? This vehicle has the grunt of a Range Rover but at a very affordable price!
I have had this vehicle for 18 months and put it through all sorts of terrains, Sea, Rivers, Sand , Mud and normal Condtions. The Sportage handled all situations with guts and ease.
Being a sports boat owner I use my Kia to tow the boat taking it from county to county, country to country and again in all situation the Kia pulls as if there is nothing there.
The Kia's petrol consumption is good in all environments whether round town, or long distance, the Kia always gives you 265 miles per tank regardless.
Being aimed at the consumer who wants great value at an affordable price, the Kia comes with a considerable amount of extras that you would normally expect to pay extra for.
These include:-
Air Conditioning ...
Advantages: Solid , spaciouss ,reliable ,economical, visibilty Disadvantages: Sun roof leaks, plastic bits fall off , only niggles for age of vehicle
Got my 1999 TD5 Manual Gs two years ago with 83K
Plus points , ride hieght and visibilty, relaibility excellent. Fuel economy getting 32 -35 regardless , can crawl round at low revs high gear due to excelent torque. Superb on motorway. Tows fine
Good light off rd . Family car 2 kids three dogs great. Kids love the seats in the boot. service it every 6k last one £125. Waxoyelled all chassis 2 yrs ago NO RUST. Stereo Harman Karman autochanger excellent
bad points sun roof leaks intermiitantly -design fault with thin aluminium
roof flexing they all do it. Tip lock the car with key not remote, as disables
movement sensor i,e dogs or window slightly open. not a town car
get a fiesta . Overall love it. ...
