Topic: Used Vehicle Review: Kia Sportage, 2005-2009

[Autos_Editor]

Summary.

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[aknutson]

I guess there are no real standout character-defining vehicles in this segment, but I find this to be even more vanilla than the norm. I would have much difficulty choosing this over an Escape V6 that offers 200 horsepower, better interior/exterior design and quality (IMO), solid reliability and similar price point.

[swishguy]

I have a few friends with V-6 awd,s. The reliability on every single one has been amazing but the gas mileage is really bad (24-26 mpg 100% hiway) for this small an engine.

[chrischasescars]

^^^ True. The 2.7-litre isn't known for its fuel economy. Seems to be a solid motor, though.

[2JDM]

I haven't driven this generation Tucson or Sportage, but I am a huge fan of its looks. One of the better looking Small CUVs.

[Dan]

I agree about the styling being pretty nice....No its not the best but there is something about it that is kinda rugged yet a little sophisticated which I like. Its the kind of styling that when clean looks real nice driving it to church on a sunny Sunday morning but then one would not be afraid to take a gravel road to gramma's house out in the country. I was actually thinking of buying a used one but the only thing kinda holding me back is the fuel economy other then that its all green lights for me. I also like the size cuz its not too small but not ballooned out either.

[Spec5]

I'm sure Shnak will chime in here too as I know he has a Sportage (I have a Tucson) and I've been very happy with mine. I'm getting 13.6L/100kms (21.3MPG) CITY and 10.5L/100kms (27MPG) HIGHWAY - v6 FWD- pretty damn good when you consider my average city driving speed is 40km/h (mother-in-laws Sentra has average speed feature and we drive the same route to work).

I can't recall why we didn't buy the Escape - but we did test drive it but there was something about it that we didn't like - I think it was the seats but could have also been the cargo area. The Tucson/Sportage have very open cargo areas unlike the Vue/Equinox that have the huge rear strut towers that intrude into the rear cargo area - thats what really won us over as I was pretty intent on a Vue (Honda powertrain on the '07s - and no metal panels to rust).