2011 Kia Sportage Sport Utility Crossover

Summary

Provided by NADAguides.com

The oldest nameplate in the Kia lineup, the 2011 Sportage receives a massive redesign that integrates a sportier, crossover exterior appearance with either front-wheel or all-wheel drive. Arriving as a Base, LX or EX trim lineup, the 2011 Kia Sportage comes standard with Bluetooth, power windows, EcoMinder indicator, cruise control and three 12-volt power outlet. Base models of the 2011 Kia Sportage comes with a six-speed manual transmission mated to the standard 176 horsepower, 2.4 liter inline-4 engine. On the higher-level 2011 Kia Sportage LX and EX, a 6-speed automatic gearbox is included with the option of all-wheel drive accompanying the compact crossover vehicle. For EX models of the 2011 Kia Sportage chrome-plated door handles, 18-inch alloy wheels and LED daytime running lights. A cooled driver's seat, back-up warning system, panoramic sunroof and HomeLink is optional on the 2011 Sportage. Another piece of optional equipment available on the 2011 Kia Sportage is a 2-liter, turbocharged engine producing 274 horsepower. Standard safety features on all Kia Sportage crossover vehicles includes anti-lock braking, electronic stability control program and downhill brake control.

Benefits of Driving a 2011 Kia Sportage Sport Utility Crossover

The newly redesigned Sportage jumps to the forefront among compact SUVs, thanks to its stylish design, generous feature set, connectivity and entertainment systems and strong value for the money. At about 175 inches long and just 73 inches wide, the new Sportage is of a size that's large enough for a growing family of four, yet it still fits into a compact-car parking space. The Sportage's all-wheel drive system combines the best of both worlds with a real locking center differential as well as car-like on-road all-wheel drive finesse.

What's new for 2011?

The Sportage isn't a new name, but Kia's compact crossover utility vehicle is completely new for 2011, with more of an emphasis on interior space and style, along with some innovative new connectivity features. The new Sportage has a sleeker shape, along with a dramatically upgraded cabin, plus a new, powerful 270-hp turbo four in a sporty SX model. Also, the new 176-horsepower, 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine that's standard on the Sportage has more power and better fuel economy than last year's optional V6.

Model Strengths

Fuel efficiency
connectivity and entertainment features
spacious, versatile interior
ride quality and cabin refinement
strong warranty
value for the money

Model Review

The Sportage is offered in Base, LX and EX models with a sporty SX model on the way late in the model year. All but the SX come with a new 176-horsepower, 2.4L 4-cylinder engine. The 4-cylinder can be paired with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive and either a 6-speed manual transmission or 6-speed automatic. Fuel economy, according to EPA ratings, is as high as 22 mpg city and 31 highway.

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