The stylish and balanced 2015 Kia Sportage crossover drives more like a car but has the functionality of an SUV. The sleek and modern styling can be seen in both the interior space and the exterior design. Although the 2015 Kia Sportage is not the largest vehicle in the crossover segment, the storage and interior space is both functional and flexible.
ENGINE & DRIVE
The 2015 Kia Sportage offers two engine choices both of which are more than adequate for daily driving. The LX and EX models are equipped with the 2.4L four cylinder engine outputting 182hp, while the top of the line SX gets a more performance focused 2.0L turbo charged four cylinder outputting 260 hp.
I found the 2015 Kia Sportage to have an amazingly solid driving feel. There’s a firmness and almost rigidity to the steering, feedback and cornering that reassures the driver and provides a pleasant and refined ride. The nimble handling and quick acceleration of the 2015 Sportage SX adds some performance elements to the feel of the ride and makes the drive of the Sportage feel more like a car than an SUV.
INTERIOR & EXTERIOR
The upscale and sporty appearance of the 2015 Kia Sportage’s exterior can be attributed to the robust styling elements. The sculpting of the front and rear, the wide stance, side accent lines, dual exhaust, black and chrome trim throughout the exterior and on the 18 inch wheels all add to the powerful exterior appearance. Although the exterior design is elegant and refined as is, I can’t help but feel it requires a few more accent lines!
The functional interior comes equipped with all the modern day technology and conveniences. You will also notice the materials may not be of the highest class, but the build quality is superb.
The dash is intuitively laid out with controls where expected and no overwhelming feeling from the number of buttons and dials. All the most used controls are easily within reach and changing settings is straightforward and logical.
Although the cargo area is smaller than comparables, it’s still roomy and well laid out with 60/40 split folding rear seats for larger items.
Some uniqueness to the 2015 Sportage includes the optional two panel sunroof to brighten both front and rear passenger seating areas and a 360 degree around view camera system to aid with parking and manoeuvring in small spaces.
FINAL THOUGHTS
I’ve always been impressed by the features that come standard on most Kia vehicles and the 2015 Kia Sportage is no exception. Rather than paying for a package upgrade to include basic (but necessary these days) features, Kia includes them as standard. Features such as heated seats, USB and Bluetooth connection, power windows, mirrors and locks, telescopic tilt steering, hill start assist, steering wheel mounted controls, keyless entry, automatic headlights and fog lights are all included in the base model Sportage.
The very affordable entry level price of $22,995 provides plenty of options and will satisfy most buyers looking for a straightforward vehicle with the latest conveniences.
