2017 Kia Sportage
The 2017 Kia Sportage is designed with lifestyle in mind. It has a spacious interior, stylish and modern exterior and the latest technology. It can go from city driving to the backroads with its DynamaxTM Intelligent AWD system. Drivers and passengers can stay connected with multiple outlets for communication and entertainment devices while being safe and comfortable in a ride that will go the distance, perform up to standards and maintain stable handling in all conditions.
What’s New
The 2017 Sportage has been redesigned and sports a unique look. The reworked design on the outside compromises some of the vehicle’s power as it is one hundred pounds heavier than its 2016 counterpart. It does provide a transmission option, allowing drivers to switch clutch-free between normal, sport and eco drive. The cargo space has been increased with a lower floor and folding seats and a range of the latest entertainment technology is available.
Before we get into the heart of the new Sportage, let's begin with the exterior styling.
Exterior Features
The 2017 model has grown slightly longer in length and sits on larger, nineteen-inch wheels. The front end is layered with a skid plate, intake, grille, and headlights. Receiving mixed reviews, the longer nose has been described as “odd looking” and the running lights as “ice cubes”, but the tinted rear window, chrome window trim and LED running lamps still add a classy modern look. This fourth-generation Sportage is bold and is for drivers who want to be noticed.
Let's shift our focus to the redesigned interior.
Interior Features
The Sportage provides the large cabin area expected in an SUV with several updates and amenities found in higher-end vehicles. Temperature is easily adjusted to maintain comfort for all passengers with a heated steering wheel, heated and cooled seats and a dual-zone control panel, so the front passenger and driver can change their own temperatures. A panoramic sunroof is larger on this model, allowing natural light to filter in. There is a height-adjustable driver seat and power adjustable passenger seat. It is also equipped with the convenience of power windows and power door locks.
Technology
Top of the line and the latest in entertainment features are part of the 2017 Kia Sportage with the help of a Sirius touchscreen, measuring in at five inches wide, a sound system generating 160 watts, six speakers, multiple USB ports and Bluetooth compatibility. Entertainment control is at a driver’s fingertips with steering wheel controls and an easy-to-use seek and scan detection for radio stations. Offered are Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and Harman/Kardon systems.
Engine/Fuel Efficiency
For a compact SUV, the 2017 Kia Sportage offers versatility, performance, and efficiency. Standard on the LX and EX models, the 2.4-litre, four-cylinder engine is all-aluminum, direct-injected, emitting 181 horsepower and 175 lb.-ft. of torque. Move up the SX model, and drivers will feel the power of acceleration with a turbocharged 2.0-litre, four-cylinder engine, boasting 237 horsepower and 260 lb.-ft. of torque. The 15.3-gallon fuel tank gets drivers where they want to go.
Safety
Standard on the 2017 model, a rear-view camera adds increased visibility and confidence backing up, while blind spots are reduced with sensors. Other high tech sensors include front and rear parking options. The driver and front passengers are protected with advanced airbags, side airbags, and side curtain airbags. The most noticeable feature, though, is in the vehicle’s automatic torque distribution, making traction a non-issue in most conditions. But when last-minute braking is needed, the autonomous braking system kicks in to prevent collisions.