Revealed earlier this year in Frankfurt, the all-new 2017 Kia Sportage hit the show stand at Los Angeles in full U.S. spec. As previously reported, the Gen IV Sportage boasts all-new Euro-influenced styling that brings a more sophisticated look as well as a cleaner aerodynamic profile. A new structure composed of 51 percent high-strength steel adds stiffness and rigidity while a 1.2-inch wheelbase stretch endows this popular 5-seat compact crossover with greater passenger space. The latest iteration Sportage also nets a major revamp to its independent suspension that enhances comfort and control while improving overall quietness.
A more welcoming environment
Inside, the remade Sportage boasts a bolder appearance that offers the choice of black or two-tone (Dark/Light Grey or Black/Beige) motifs and additional soft-touch surfaces matched with premium fabric upholstery in the LX and leather in the EX/SX Turbo trims. Its new dual-level dash and redesigned console are both angled towards the driver while the SX Turbo boasts a flat-bottom, heated and leather-wrapped sport steering wheel with shift paddles, piano black accents and aluminum pedals. U.S. comfort options include power front seats with adjustable lumbar support on the driver’s side as well tri-level seat heaters. Other extras include a larger panoramic sunroof and a new automatic liftgate to access the Sportage’s expanded cargo bay. The load area has a lower liftover and 30.7 cu ft of space behind a 60/40 split-folding second-row bench.
Introducing new UVO3 telematics
The 2017 Sportage is fitted with a new lineup of audio/infotainment systems. On the sound front, the standard 160-watt audio system can be upgraded to a 320-watt Harman Kardon premium alternative. LX models feature a 5.0-inch color touchscreen, Bluetooth hands-free phone/streaming audio, SiriusXM satellite radio and rear-camera display. The EX has a 7.0-inch capacitive touchscreen with Kia’s new UVO3 telematics package. Making its debut on the all-new Sportage, it includes no-cost UVO eServices with numerous apps, Wi-Fi tethering capability and more along with Android Auto and Apple Car Play (late availability). The top-line SX Turbo goes one step beyond, adding a larger 8.0-inch touchscreen and navigation.
Also: See the New and Redesigned Cars of 2016
Motivation for the 2017 Sportage continues to come from a 181-horsepower/2.4-liter naturally aspirated 4-cylinder engine in LX/EX models and a 241-horse/2.0-liter turbo four in the SX Turbo. Both are matched with a 6-speed Sportmatic transmission and have been retuned for better efficiency and with turbo models, enhanced mid-range torque. All three trims can be had in front-drive or with optional AWD that has a 50/50 locking differential and unique lower front fascia that allows for a steeper off-road approach angle. The SX Turbo variant also gets a tauter sport suspension package.
Playing it safer
Intent on earning both NHTSA 5-Star and IIHS Top Safety Pick+ ratings, Kia will offer the new 2017 Sportage with a full spectrum of advanced driver assists. These include Autonomous Emergency Braking, Lane Departure Warning, Blind Spot Detection with Lane Change Assist and Rear Cross Traffic Alert along with Bi-HID headlights that include corner-following lighting. The 2017 Kia Sportage lineup is expected to arrive in showrooms during the first half of next year. Pricing, EPA numbers and additional packaging details will be released closer to the actual on-sale date.
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