Description

During Kia's early years in the U.S. market, the South Korean automaker offered two models: the Sephia sedan and the Sportage sport utility vehicle. A new Sportage debuted for the 2005 model year, joining the company's larger Sorento SUV. Because Kia and Hyundai share corporate parentage, the Sportage is related to Hyundai's Tucson. Longer in wheelbase than the original Sportage, the current model has a wider track and a more powerful standard engine. Larger and roomier than its predecessor, the Sportage is offered with front- or four-wheel drive in LX and EX trim levels. For 2006, the Sportage gets an improved spiral-type antenna and a standard air-filtration system. A tire-pressure-monitoring system is standard on the EX.