LUXURIOUS CLASS-EXCLUSIVE FEATURES

Upgrading to the Premium Package (as with our test car) adds items like wood interior trim, heated rear seats, a driver’s memory seat with 4-way adjustability, and class-exclusive features like heated and cooled front seats, a heated steering wheel and a panoramic sunroof – which might be the reason why headroom is so limited. A Technology Package then allows you to add Navigation and an impressive 8-speaker Infinity audio system that, as the folks from infinity showed us, can really pump out Sandstorm by Darude.

While not as fancy, even base models come well-equipped with items like driver’s power lumbar support, power windows and locks, a tilt and telescopic steering wheel, a cooling glovebox, USB and Auxiliary jacks and Bluetooth compatibility with steering wheel controls. Plus, the addition of the automatic transmission adds cruise control and an Eco mode that upshifts sooner and downshifts later to improve fuel economy.

Those looking for more, like HID headlights, LED taillights, added power and an even more aggressive design will be able to get it later after the initial vehicle launches with the introduction of a turbocharged model in EX and a higher-grade SX trim.

    See also:

    Towing
    If emergency towing is necessary, we recommend having it done by an authorized Kia dealer or a commercial tow-truck service. Proper lifting and towing procedures are necessary to prevent damage ...

    Safety
    Antilock disc brakes, traction control, stability control, front-seat side airbags and full-length side curtain airbags are all standard equipment. In government crash tests, the 2008 Kia Sportage ...

    Powertrains and Performance
    The standard engine on the LX is a 2.0-liter, inline four-cylinder engine. It generates 140 horsepower and 136 pound-feet of torque and is mated to either a five-speed manual transmission or a fou ...