The 2011 Kia Sportage new levels of performance

The 2011 Kia Sportage is completely redesigned for the model year with sharp styling and new levels of performance. Its rather beefy, high tech appearance can be attributed to the few curves found in its body elements with angular headlamps, intricate tail lamps, and chopped window shapes.

The Kia Sportage is available in three trim models. The base level has many standard features which include 16-inch wheels in an aluminum cast, audio system with six speakers and a CD/MP3 player, auxiliary audio jacks, satellite radio, Bluetooth, air-conditioning, full power accessories, upholstery in cloth and titled steering wheel with controls for phone and audio. The next model up the Kia Sportage LX includes wheels 17-inches in diameter, exterior mirrors with integrated turn signals, tinted rear window and a keyless ignition. The high end Kia Sportage EX has 18-inch wheels, glove box that is chilled, daytime running lights that are LEDs, a driver seat with power adjustments, fog lamps, telescopic steering wheel wrapped in leather, exterior accents in chrome, a climate control system with two zones, rear spoiler and roof rail. The EX and LX include some additional features such as a higher-end stereo system, rearview mirror with auto-dimming, a navigation system with voice recognition and a backup camera, leather upholstery, parking sensors for the rear, keyless entry, sun roof, front seats that are heated, and a driver seat that is ventilated.

Specs:

The engine is the Kia Sportage is a 16-valve, 2.4 liter inline four-cylinder with iron block and aluminum head and port fuel injection and produces 176 horsepower with 168 pound-feet of torque. The base model has a six-speed manual transmission while the other two models have a six-speed automatic transmission with manumatic shifting and the option of either two-wheel or four-wheel drive.

Fuel economy for the Kia Sportage is 22 mpg in the city, 31 mpg on the highway and a combined rating of 25 mpg. The vehicle can make 0 to 60 miles per hour in 9.5 seconds and has a top speed of 114 miles per hour. The Kia Sportage includes many safety features such as a front side airbags, full length side curtain airbags, antilock disc brakes, active front head restraints and a stability and traction control system. The vehicle has been rated the highest for frontal and side impact by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

The interior of the Kia Sportage has been improved over previous years. Although comprised of mostly plastic due to the price point of the vehicle, a low-gloss finish and masculine shapes help to make the interior look more upscale and contemporary. The higher up the line you go, the more luxurious the cabin , although all models offer passengers and driver sufficient legroom and headroom. With front and rear seats upright, the cargo capacity stands at 54.6 cubic feet.

The 2011 Kia Sportage is prepared to handle its competition with a muscular yet quiet ride and a unique and stylish look. The modern cabin and a new up-to-date powertrain with a four-wheel drive system make this vehicle one that deserves attention in the compact SUV class.