New Kia Sportage launched in South Africa – Pricing and specifications

The fifth-generation Kia Sportage is now available in South Africa with prices starting at R539,995.

The new SUV is offered with a 1.6-litre engine and comes in five trim levels ranging from the entry-level LX up to the top-end GT Line S.

Performance

Powering the new Sportage is a 1.6-litre turbocharged engine providing 132kW and 265Nm.

This lets the SUV manage a sprint time from 0-100km/h of 8.8 seconds, and a top speed of 201km/h.

A seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox is then used to transmit power to the front wheels, and drivers will be able to select from four drive modes including Eco, Sport, Comfort and Smart.

Ventilated brake discs measuring 325mm have also been added to the front wheels, while the rear uses smaller 300mm solid discs.

Features

As far as styling is concerned, the new Sportage comes with a black “tiger-nose” grille, LED daytime running lights, and angular LED headlamps. A chrome beltline and rear spoiler then help to give the SUV a sportier appearance.

The alloy wheels come in three different sizes, 17, 18, and 19 inches depending on the model, and the SUV is available with a choice of 12 different exterior colours.

The new vehicle is also slightly longer than its predecessor resulting in a bigger boot at 591 litres – compared to 466 litres before.

Inside, the entry-level LX features cloth upholstery, an artificial leather steering wheel, a curved 12.3-inch touchscreen which supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and all versions of the Sportage are now sold with smart entry and push-start functions.

Other standard features include automatic dual-zone climate control, a reverse camera, rear park assist, six speakers, cruise control, blind spot collision warning, and a multifunction steering wheel.

Those who opt for the mid-range EX can additionally expect front parking sensors, artificial leather/cloth seats, two-way electronically adjustable front seats, remote folding for the rear seats, and heating functions for the steering wheel and front seats.

The top-of-the-range GT model, meanwhile, has been split into three variations – the GT-Line, GT-Line Plus, and GT-Line S.

The GT Line receives alloy pedals, paddle shifters, and upholstery that is a mix of artificial leather and suede, as well as abilities such as lane follow assist, lane keeping assist, and forward collision warning.

On top of this, the GT Line Plus receives a panoramic sunroof and gloss black alloy wheels.

The top-end GT Line S then rounds out the package by adding ventilation functions to the front seats, ambient interior lighting, a rotary gearshift dial, light-sensing LED headlamps, and smart cruise control.