VIDEO: 2016 Kia Sportage launched in South Korea

The all-new 2016 Kia Sportage has been launched in its home market of South Korea, a couple of weeks before it makes its world premiere at the 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show. The fourth-gen C-segment crossover will be offered in four trim levels, priced between 21.7 million won (RM77,300) and 28.6 million won (RM102,000).

As we’ve seen, the new Sportage’s looks are quite the departure from the outgoing car, even though the profile, window shape and bulging wheel arches have been retained. At the front, the headlights sit pod-like up top, while the rear end sees sharp LED combination tail lights bridged by a chrome bar. Options include “ice cube” LED fog lights, skid plates, dual exhaust mufflers and a range of 16-, 17- and 19-inch wheels.

Inside, there’s a more sophisticated cabin, taking inspiration from the new Carens and Sorento, but with a more driver-oriented design. The dash top stitching and liberal use of brightwork add to the occasion, and Kia promises a far greater proportion of soft touch plastics, as well as added soundproofing for improved refinement.

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Toys include a Qi wireless charger for smartphones and a Hyundai Sonata-esque proximity-activated Smart Power Tailgate; in addition, a flat-bottomed steering wheel, piano black fascia and alloy pedals can be specified for those who want a sportier look. Safety kit now includes Automated Emergency Braking (AEB), Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS), High Beam Assist (HBA) and Blind Spot Detection (BSD).

Despite length and width being unchanged, length has grown by 40 mm and the wheelbase by 30 mm, and Kia promises more head- and legroom both front and rear. The boot has grown too, from 465 litres to 503 litres, and visibility – an area the third-generation model has long struggled with – is claimed to have been improved thanks to thinner pillars, a lower A-pillar base and a taller rear windscreen.

Thanks to increased use of ultra-high-strength (up to 51%) and hot-stamped steel, torsional rigidity has been bumped up by 39%, and revised dampers, bushings and wheel bearings and geometry; a repositioned steering gearbox and a stiffer rear cross member improve ride, stability and agility. There are also larger brakes and a new rack-mounted electric power steering motor that provides added feel and linearity – something we have been clamouring for years from Korean cars.

In its home market, the Sportage is motivated by diesel power only – the 2.0 litre R CRDi turbodiesel with a stop-start system produces 186 PS and 400 Nm; a six-speed automatic transmission is standard on all variants, with a six-speed manual an option on the base model. There will also be a 1.7 litre U CRDi oil-burner, paired to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.

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Jonathan Lee

After trying to pursue a career in product design, Jonathan Lee decided to make the sideways jump into the world of car journalism instead. He therefore appreciates the aesthetic appeal of a car, but for him, the driving experience is still second to none.

 

Comments

  • Same L0rrr on Sep 04, 2015 at 4:23 pm

    In 2017, people will come to beg me to accept this kimchi junk for 25k.

    Buy Toyota better, good RV.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 18 Thumb down 12
  • Shawal on Sep 04, 2015 at 5:17 pm

    Nice to see the old gen of the sportage….

    Indeed kia has come a long way….

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 4 Thumb down 6
  • madjinho on Sep 04, 2015 at 5:51 pm

    The amazing suv kia sportage

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 3 Thumb down 6
  • brianxyz on Sep 04, 2015 at 5:53 pm

    Hats off and way to go! I hope the price would be the same (or lower) as per current once it reaches Malaysian shores.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 5 Thumb down 3
  • DPCraft on Sep 04, 2015 at 7:54 pm

    The front end look ugly, th headlights like korean’s frog eye. However , I find the rear looks quite sharp and good looking

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 5 Thumb down 3
  • nasi padang on Sep 05, 2015 at 9:00 am

    front look like Porsche macan in certain angle!

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 4 Thumb down 2
  • Apekgoh on Sep 05, 2015 at 10:35 am

    Front bulge headlights from 45 angle looks like porsh macan cayenne signature lights… or it is just me.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 2 Thumb down 3
  • 180PS & 400nm of torque from the 2.0 litre R series oil burner!! …thats lots of twist

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 2 Thumb down 1
  • I like the new 2016 Tuscan better

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 2 Thumb down 0
  • previous generation look better than this generation. why?

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 3 Thumb down 1
  • KIA has come a long way, yes indeed

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
  • CarmenTung on Sep 07, 2015 at 7:13 pm

    This car is a beauty ! I gonna asked my sugardaddy to buy it for me.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 2 Thumb down 0
 

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