2008 Kia Sportage EX V6 Trim Overview

The 2008 Kia Sportage EX V6 represents the high-end trim for this compact front-wheel drive SUV. It adds a lot more standard features, such as a sunroof, cruise control, heated mirrors, remote entry and a trip computer. An MP3-compatible CD player is also included, along with sportier leather trim for the steering wheel and shift knob. These join already standard power features, tilt steering, a tachometer, intermittent front wipers, a rear window wiper, and three power outlets (front, rear, cargo area).

Upgrading to the 2008 Sportage EX V6 also gets you foglights and a tire pressure monitor, in addition to the dual front-side and side impact airbags with passenger deactivation, traction and stability control, skid plates, and 4-wheel disc and ABS brakes. Taken together, these safety features add up to 5-star crash ratings. The SUV rides on 16-inch alloy wheels with all-season tires. A 2.7-liter, 173-hp DOHC V6 gets 178 ft-lbs of torque and around 18/23 mpg, matched to a 4-speed automatic. It can tow up to 2000 pounds with the optional trailer hitch.

The rear row in the 2008 Sportage EX V6 split-folds flat, with a folding armrest, offering up to 67 cubic feet of storage. Tiedowns are standard, as is an independent flip-up rear window. A roof rack expands cargo capacity as does the fold-flat front passenger seat. More options are available to make this family SUV more high-end. These include heated leather seats and a 6-CD changer. On the safety side, you can add an auto-dimming rearview mirror and automatic headlights. Remote start, side step rails, and a rear spoiler are also available.