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 ...
Achieving maximum protection through 'passive' technology
The new Kia Sportage has been designed to score a 5-Star rating in Euro
NCAP's crash tests and maximum scores in the USA's two crash test programmes.
The all-new platform and bodyshell employs a m ...
Driving your vehicle
Ignition switch
Starting the engine3
Manual transaxle
Automatic transaxle
Brake system
Cruise control system
Steering wheel
Instrument cluster
Gauges
Warnings and indicators
Lighting
Wipers ...


