The interior surfaces reflect a European-like aesthetic.
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The Korean car-maker Kia says it benchmarked the Volkswagen Tiguan when redesigning its Sportage compact SUV for 2017.
After driving the turbocharged Sportage SX on Chattanooga streets for several days, we think Kia may have actually overshot its target and produced something more akin to an Audi.
While the lower-priced LX and EX trims with their normally aspirated 2.4-liter engines will no doubt be the bestsellers in the Sportage lineup, Chattanooga customers looking for class-leading performance and European aesthetics might reach a bit and snag a top-of-the-line SX. There are several in inventory at Kia of Chattanooga on Chapman Road.
From the impressive thrust of its 240-horsepower four-cylinder engine, to its refined interior assembled with top-shelf materials, the 2017 Sportage SX feels a class above its sticker price, which in the case of our Burnished Copper tester is $33,395. Pricing for lesser trims starts at $23,000 for the LX and $24,700 for the EX. Opting for all-wheel-drive (a good choice for our hilly terrain in the Tennessee Valley) adds $1,500 to the price at all trim levels.
The Sportage has been completely redesigned for the 2017 model year. Improvements in styling and performance should make it more competitive with segment leaders such as the Honda CR-V (also redesigned for 2017), the Ford Escape, the Toyota RAV-4 and Subaru Forester.
‘ Just the facts: A five-passenger, two-row compact SUV made by a Korean automaker with a growing reputation for producing high-content vehicles at value prices. Our tester features a 2.0-liter, turbocharged engine that Car and Driver magazine has clocked at 6.7-seconds in a zero-to-60 mph sprint. The transmission is a smooth, six-speed automatic that results in a more sophisticated driving experience than competitors with trendy continuously variable (gearless) transmissions.
‘ Worthwhile options: Rather than offer a menu of a la carte options, Kia tends to group options by trim level. The SX offers a basket of great standard features including Harmon Kardon premium audio, leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a heated D-shaped steering wheel, an 8-inch display screen with navigation, and a whole suite of safety-tech features.
‘ It’s good for Chattanooga buyers because: People here are generally more concerned with a vehicle’s value than the cache of a luxury brand. A small, relatively affordable SUV that feels like a premium product is made for the market.
‘ How much? About $23,000 for the budget LX up to $33,395 for our SX tester.
‘ Cool stuff: A panoramic sunroof stretches from front to back. Combined with large windows, the entire cabin opens up to form an airy, spacious environment. Even though technically a compact SUV, all that glass makes the Sportage SX feel much bigger. The two-tone, 19-inch wheels are sharp, too.
‘ We wish for: A bit more padding in the seats for added comfort.
‘ While you are looking: Also shop the Sportage’s corporate cousin the Hyundai Tuscon.
Contact Mark Kennedy at mkennedy@timesfree press.com or 423-757-6645.