New 2009 Kia Sportage

An up-and-comer in the SUV segment, the 2009 Kia Sportage gets a minor facelift to an already fun and sporty design that is sure to turn heads everywhere you go.

The four-door, five-passenger Sportage is available in two trim levels – the capable LX and the well-appointed EX. The standard inline 2.0 liter 4-cylinder engine generates 140 horsepower, which supplies tepid acceleration but good fuel economy with 20 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway, especially when mated to the five-speed manual transmission. The available 173-horsepower 2.7 liter V-6 is a much better choice, with ample passing power mated to the 4-speed automatic transmission with Sportmatic® overdrive for smooth shifts.  The V-6 gets 18/23 mpg city/highway and matches up well against the Jeep Compass and Ford Escape.

In order to keep a fresh look, the Sportage sports a revamped front end including redesigned headlamps, bumper and grille and restyled tail lamps. With the rear seat folded flat, cargo capacity is a generous 66.6 cubic feet, allowing you to pack a good amount of items. Interior amenities are plentiful, including an available cassette/MP3/CD stereo with six speakers that delivers solid sound quality. Sirius Satellite Radio and a USB input for MP3 players are not only new, but standard. A rear spoiler and navigation system is optional, and a sunroof is available on the EX V-6 trim.

The optional full-time on-demand 4WD system offers excellent handling and control in a variety of weather conditions and mild off-road terrain. The Sportage also carries a 5-star crash safety rating from the NHTSA. Advanced safety features include standard dual front airbags, dual front seat-mounted side airbags, and full-length side curtain airbags for excellent supplemental passenger protection in the event of a collision. Standard 4-wheel disc anti-lock brakes prevent wheel lockup and increase stopping power on slippery surfaces. Standard Electronic Stability Control and the Traction Control System help stabilize the vehicle during evasive maneuvers and limit wheelspin during quick takeoffs. The standard Tire Pressure Monitoring System alerts the driver to any significant changes in pressure with a visual symbol on the instrument panel.

Each year the Sportage gets better and better. With abundant safety features, plenty of cargo room, excellent fuel economy and a fresh exterior design, the 2009 Kia Sportage should be on your short-list of SUV’s this year.