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.

    See also:

    Vehicle certification label
    Vehicle certification label The vehicle certification label attached on the driver’s side center pillar gives the vehicle identification number (VIN). ...

    Engine start/stop button
    Illuminated ENGINE START/STOP button Whenever the front door is opened, the ENGINE START/STOP button will illuminate for your convenience. The light will go off after about 30 seconds when the ...

    Tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS)
    (1) TPMS malfunction indicator (2) Low tire pressure telltale Each tire, including the spare (if provided), should be checked monthly when cold and inflated to the inflation pressure recommende ...