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:

    Maintenance schedule
    Chart symbols: I- Inspect these items and their related parts. If necessary, correct, clean, refill, adjust or replace. R- Replace or change L- Lubricate. (1) Refer to the lubricant and co ...

    A safer drive thanks to new 'active' and 'passive' technology
    Kia invests heavily in R&D programmes directed at enhancing both the active and passive safety of its vehicles to deliver the highest levels of occupant protection. To ensure that owning and ...

    Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options
    The 2010 Kia Sportage is a compact crossover SUV that's offered in LX and EX trim levels. Both are offered with a choice of front- or all-wheel drive. The entry-level LX comes with 16-inch alloy w ...