2008 Kia Sportage

2008 Kia Sportage Pictures

MSRP:: $16,050 - $35,765
Invoice:: $31,614 - $31,614

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Overview:

We love you just the way you are. So says Kia about its 2008 Sportage, which receives no changes or updates this year. The compact SUV went through a facelift in 2005, based on the Tucson unibody platform and reappearing with a sportier profile and a more refined interior, all still at a price lower than its competitors. Matched with Kia's long-term warranty, extensive 5-star safety features, and improved reputation, many drivers are switching to this affordable family car.

The 2008 Kia Sportage comes in two trims -- LX and EX. LX models start out with full power features, cruise control, and a CD player, while the EX adds leather trim, a sunroof, foglights, and remote entry. Both trims are available in either front-wheel or on-demand four-wheel drive, which defaults to a 50/50 torque split. The lack of low-range gearing means the 4WD is meant for slippery surfaces rather than off-roading. There are two engine choices. A 2.0-liter, 140-hp I4 with choice of 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic comes with the LX, while a 2.7-liter, 173-hp V6 with 4-speed automatic is standard in the EX and optional for the LX. The 2008 Sportage earns five stars in all crash test categories except for rollovers, where it earns three stars. Standard equipment includes ABS brakes, dual front-side and side curtain airbags, traction and stability control, and 16-inch wheels.

The 2008 Sportage seats five in two rows, with both the rear row and front passenger seat able to fold flat, expanding cargo capacity from 23 to nearly 67 cubic feet. The rear tailgate opens separately from the rear window, and a roof rack adds more storage versatility. Headroom is plentiful, though rear legroom can feel cramped if the front seats are moved back. An important family travel feature, cupholders, abound in the Sportage. There are eight total in front and back. Highlights for owners include the car-like handling, comfortable seats, versatility and spaciousness for cargo, the safety features, and the low price. The most notable downside is the lack of acceleration power in both engines and the lack of a 5-speed automatic transmission. (less) (more)

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History of the Kia Sportage

[Edit] Kia introduced its first SUV in the U.S. back in 1995.  The Sportage was its second car offering here after the Sephia, and in similar fashion, Kia employed a gradual rollout strategy for the compact SUV, starting in the Western states.
For its first generation, from 1995 to 2003, the Sportage was considered a mini SUV and came in either front-wheel or four-wheel drive.  The 2WD came with a 2.0-liter, 94-hp I4 engine, while the 4WD upped that horsepower to 130-hp with the same engine.  It was meant to be a budget SUV, not particularly built for power or off-road capability.  Even today, the 4WD does not include low-range gearing and should not be used on dry pavement.
The original Kia Sportage had few standard features, beyond power locks and windows, but it came well equipped in matters of safety.  ABS and traction were always standard, as were airbags.  In 1998, the Sportage was the first of any vehicle to include front knee airbags.  For these reasons alone, safety and economy, the Sportage was popular with families on a budget, though quality and reliability were issues.
The Sportage took a two-year break after 2003 and reappeared in 2005 with an all-new unibody design.  Similar to Hyundai's Tuscon, it was longer and wider than the original Sportage, offering more interior space, and was now rebadged as a crossover SUV.  You now had a choice of either an I4 or a more powerful V6 engine, and performance and handling was greatly improved.  Standard features were plentiful, even in the base models.  Not only did the rear seats fold flat, but the front passenger seat folded as well, to allow more cargo space.  As always, safety was of primary importance, and ABS, traction and stability control were standard across the line, as were six airbags.
The new Sportage is much more stylish and a better value than its predecessor, and combined with Kia's famous warranty offers, low price tag, and high safety ratings, is proving to be a much tougher competitor in the compact SUV segment.

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