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The 2012 Kia Sportage SUV has a slight increase in fuel economy for both the 2.4-liter and 2.0-liter turbocharged engines. All models receive improved rear suspension dampers and more sound insulation, while LX trims have new 17-inch wheels and low-rolling-resistance tires. EX trims with cloth seats get a new anti-bacterial, anti-soil fabric that also repels static build-up.
The 2011 Kia Sportage all-new this year, with a new look, new in-cabin technology and a new 4-cylinder that's standard across the board (with the single exception of the turbo 2.0-liter in the SX trim), with no V6 offered. Offered in both front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive (awd) versions, the 2011 Sportage also includes a multitude of segment firsts on its list of standard features.
Those who remember the original Sportage SUV probably won't recognize the current model. Gone are the body-on-frame architecture, harsh ride and weak enginenot to mention the questionable reliability. The newest Sportage derives its underpinnings from a car chassis to give it a smooth ride, improved handling and better crash test results. The trade-off is an inability to tackle true off-road terrain (the Sportage lacks a proper high/low transfer case and locking differentials), but heavy snow and mud are still easily managed. And, while the humble Sportage must contend with flashy newcomers such as the Honda CR-V and Dodge Nitro, many people will find its low price and long list of standard features preferable to just another pretty face.
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why ads?By whyno (Akron, NY) on Friday, January 07, 2011
overall rating 10 of 10rating details
"Traded in a Vibe looking to get into a small vehicle with good gas mileage. Very comfortable vehicle and averaging 26 to 27 mpg. Compared to Vibe, very roomy and very good pickup as well with the 6 speed trany, even for a 4 cyl. After research, I found this to be the best all around buy for the $$$'s with many standard features that are optional on other vehicles. Great warranty too. Yet to see on reliability but so far so good at 3k miles over a few months. Very happy thus far, good vehicle at good price."
35 people out of 35 found this review helpful
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By Rob8here (MA) on Friday, August 26, 2011
I own this car - My approximate mileage is 14,000
overall rating 7 of 10rating detailsPros: "Stunner, tons of features, great value"
Cons: "ride isn't the smoothest"
Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10
"I love mine. I got a red EX 4WD. It's a great little car, good on gas, really good looking, lots of features for very little money. I wasn't really in the market for a small SUV, but once I drove it and started to think of the benefits of having more cargo room and 4WD, I went for it. It doesn't have the smoothest ride...definitely more of a "jeepy" feel than a sedan. The only thing I don't like about it is the middle seatbelt in the back, which is anchored to the ceiling...very strange. But for the money, I don't think there's anything close."
18 people out of 18 found this review helpful
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By Stretch (NC) on Tuesday, April 17, 2012
I own this car - My approximate mileage is 1,000
overall rating 10 of 10rating detailsPros: "The SX turbo is absolutely great."
Cons: "Black (leather) interior ...a bit warm"
Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10
"I've had this Sportage SX for a month. I'm 6'5" and it's one of the few suv's that I can get my knees under the steering wheel. I turned in a 2007 Lexus RX350. While that was a wonderful yacht to drive, this one is fun, fun, fun. My Sportage is fully equipped and I have almost the same creature comforts as the Lexus. I can't believe how similar they are. Except for the power lift rear hatch and rain sensing windshield wipers I haven't noticed or missed any other features from the Lexus. And think of the bucks I saved! You can pick any interior as long as it is black leather. It would be nice to have a different color interior, especially in the south. But with heated and cooled driver's seat it'll do. Bluetooth, navigation and backup camera are nicely integrated. And it has a sunglasses case above the rear view mirror. A silly little item but it and the turbo sold me on it."
14 people out of 14 found this review helpful
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