Driving
The Kia is available with 2.0-litre or 2.7-litre V6 petrol engines, but we prefer the 2.0-litre turbodiesel. There's a fair amount of diesel clatter at idle, but once on the move it delivers power progressively, and at cruising speeds is impressive refined. It serves up its power in a progressive manner too. So it's a shame the Kia's clutch action is snappy which, combined with a less-than-slick gearbox, makes smooth progress difficult. What's more, dynamically the Magentis feels flimsy. It rolls through corners, and this increased body movement means it works its front tyres much harder. There's also a lot of dive when braking, and the middle pedal is soft under-foot too. The steering is light and vague, and never inspires confidence. Unfortunately, the soft dynamic set-up doesn't translate into a decent ride quality either, because while the Kia is cushioned over smooth surfaces, the dampers don't control suspension movement. As a result, it can become crashy over imperfections, while kickback through the wheel is a problem. Still, stability control is standard.
See also:
More space for people and cargo, and a quieter drive
Luggage space in new Kia Sportage benefits from the 70 mm increase in the
vehicle's rear overhang. With the rear seats upright, the cargo bay is 80 mm
longer and 110 mm wider at floor level, thank ...
Packed Cabin
But what the Forte five-door lacks in dynamic refinement is perhaps made up
for with creature comforts. Starting at $19,090, the five-door Forte SX has
everything from the $17,590 EX—including p ...
Brakes and clutch
Checking brake/clutch fluid
level
Check the fluid level in the reservoir
periodically. The fluid level should be
between MAX and MIN marks on the
side of the reservoir.
Before removing the res ...


