Owning
The Kia's length, width and stretched wheelbase provide excellent legroom in the rear. The boot is also generous, with a 420-litre luggage capacity. In the front, though, the cabin doesn't give you the same sense of space, because the driving position is flawed. Upper-range LS and V6 models get an electric driver's seat as standard, but it doesn't adjust low enough. The amount of reach and rake movement on the steering wheel isn't sufficient, either, so you end up feeling cramped. Seats don't offer much side support either. And although the Kia is very well screwed together, it is summed up by annoying touches such as the aftermarket-style radio and indicators that are on the wrong side of the steering wheel - which ruin the everyday ownership experience. The weighting of the controls could also be better. But equipment levels are very good indeed, though arguably they have to be, given some steep list prices. Depreciation will also be a bit steep, while returns of 38.8mpg from our diesel test car were disappointing - though it had very few miles on the clock. Looser engines often return better figures.
See also:
2006 Kia Optima
Far more buyers of reasonably priced economy-oriented cars are likely to
notice the much-improved revamped 2006 Kia Optima midsize sedan.
The new Optima has slicker styling, more power and added s ...
ISG (Idle Stop & Go) available for three engines
In addition to using the latest technologies to enhance the efficiencies of
each engine, Kia is offering its fuel-stretching ISG (Idle Stop & Go) system -
which automatically switches off and ...
Interior Design and Special Features
Kia designed a functional, roomy and attractive interior for the Sportage.
Most of the materials are of good quality and the build quality is solid. The
rear-seat design allows for a flat load flo ...


