Review - 2020 Kia Sportage

If you think the Sportage looks familiar, you wouldn't be the first to see a hint of Porsche Macan in the styling.  This is a massive compliment considering the Sportage's $28,990 entry price being some $56k shy of the Porsche. It was designed at Kia's German studio after all. But the unique grille and foglamps give the Kia a real personality of its own.  

There aren't that many colours to choose from- with two different tones of silver, a white plus Fiery Red and Mercury Blue- but they are rich and expensive looking colours that do the sporty looking car justice.
Pricier versions get another shade of white and black paint options. Fiery Red would be our highlight- a sultry rouge number that just oozes class.

Sportage's interior is a place you can feel at home and put all of your belongings safely and securely. The three spoke steering wheel, electronic park brake, climate control and 7.0-inch touch screen all give you the impression you're in a far posher car. Connecting your phone through the Bluetooth system is a piece of cake.

No more calling shotgun

The Sportage's 466 litre boot is wide and features a low opening to easily negotiate items in and out. It can accommodate two Bugaboo's before you even fold the seats down, revealing 1455L of extra room.

When they are in play, it's nice to know those seats have ISOFIX child seat fixtures to supplement the car's 5 star ANCAP rating. Not only that, but they move back and forth and recline like the front seats. At last! The rear passengers aren't treated like second-class citizens. There's also get a pair of cupholders, a USB and 12V power supply to keep the back end of town entertained.

Look Mum, No hands

Depending which Sportage you go for, there are two punchy petrols and an economical diesel –
which you might want to consider if you do a lot of long distance travelling.

There are a few surprising gadgets on the top models that will make you wonder how you ever lived without them. An electronically opening tailgate? Sensational.  Automatic parking that twirls the steering wheel for you? You bet.

Best of all, the reason why more and more Australians can't get enough of Kia's would have to be the industry best, 7-year, unlimited kilometre warranty. If that's not enough, there's also a year of roadside assistance. Throw in capped-price servicing and owning a car doesn't really come more hassle-free than this.

Our verdict

Great looks? Check. Longest warranty out there? Check. Safety and technology? Check. The Sportage is a car with the potential to keep surprising you long after you've met it and never in a bad way. Talk to one of our experts about getting to know it today.

5 specs you need to know

1. Engine:  2.0-or 2.4-litre petrol, 2.0-litre turbo-diesel
2. Transmission and drive: Six-speed auto
3. ANCAP Rating: Five stars
4. Official fuel economy: 7.9L/100km , 6.8L/100km (diesel)
5. 0-100km/h as tested: 9.6 seconds (Platinum diesel)

Pros

• Interior quality and comfort
• Standard features
• Refined and efficient engines
• 7-year factory warranty
• Sporty new looks

Cons

• Auto showed some hesitation on test
• More colours would be nice
• No longer a cheap and cheerful price