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Discontinued
for 2003, the Sportage is a basic, compact SUV with limited off-roading abilities.
If you can still find a 2002 model, the base price for the hard top is $17,095,
while the convertible version offers open air motoring for just $14,645.
Despite
poor showings in some consumer ratings, the Sportage has been one of Kia's biggest
sellers and has logged admirably very few complaints with the National Highway
Transportation Safety Administration. Once again, the low price point and high
fun factor are at work here.
Besides
its affordability, the Sportage is also quite roomy in the front, but leg room
could be better in the back. Rearward visibility is also compromised with the
convertible version in top down mode.
Power
is supplied by a 4-cylinder, 2.0 litre engine putting out 130 horsepower and minimally
acceptable performance. Both a 2x2 rear wheel drive version and a 4x4 model are
offered. Mileage for the automatic version comes in at 18 mpg in the city and
21 mpg highway.
Standard
features include air conditioning, tilt steering wheel, power windows, locks and
mirrors and an AM/FM cassette stereo with six speakers. The interior also offers
front and rear cup holders and driver's lumbar adjustment. And the hard top model
has an additional 12-volt power outlet in the cargo area and 50/50 split folding
rear seats.
There
are few competitors at this price, particularly for the soft top, but the Chevy
Tracker/Suzuki Vitara twins probably come the closest in value.
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