Driving Impressions

The 2006 Kia Sportage provides a carlike ride while returning relatively sporty handling on par with that of most peers. Should you push too hard through a corner, the standard stability and traction control system will intervene to keep you headed in the right direction. Additionally, the Sportage's four-wheel independent suspension system helps smooth bumps without the jittery feel typical of many SUVs. Power from the standard four-cylinder is barely adequate, so we recommend you stick with the larger 2.7-liter V6. The four-speed automatic isn't quite as smooth as the five-speed unit in the CR-V or RAV-4, but it always manages to keep the V6 right in its power band.

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    Starting the engine
    CAUTION Always wear appropriate shoes when operating your vehicle. Unsuitable shoes (high heels, ski boots,etc.) may interfere with your ability to use the brake and accelerator pedal, and the ...

    Instrument cluster
    Type A Type B 1. Tachometer 2. Engine temperature gauge 3. Fuel gauge 4. Speedometer 5. Turn signal indicators 6.Warning and indicator lights (if equipped) 7. Odometer/Trip computer (if eq ...

    Choice of engines with enhanced economy and lowered emissions
    When the full range of new Kia Sportage models is on sale later this year, it will be available with four engines - two petrol and two diesel, ranging between 115 ps to 163 ps - manual and automat ...