|
|
|
|
18/08/2008
By EWAN KENNEDY
|
|
|
A longtime popular 4WD for those looking for a competent off-roader at an affordable price. Kia’s Sportage has been in Australia since 1996. Most models use the traditional ladder-frame design, but from August 2007 the South Korean maker introduced an all-new model with a monocoque body. Though, not just a monocoque because there's a fair bit of additional strengthening under the floor.
At the time of the 2007 model introduction, a 2WD variant joined the range. Aimed at the person who wanted the style and space of an off-road wagon, but wanted it purely for on-road use, the 2WD is lighter and slightly nimbler than its 4WD brother.
 Not a lot of the these latest Kia Sportages are on the used-car market at this stage, so in this week’s used-car feature we will concentrate on models bought new prior to the 2007 model change.
The Kia 4WD first arrived in Australia late in 1996. These are getting on in years and may be near the end of their lives. From early 2000, though it has basically the same body up front, the Sportage has longer tail, providing substantially more boot space. This long-tail model, also has some minor upgrades, so is probably the one to aim for unless you are strapped for cash. Or want a cheap little workhorse to play with in the mud or on the beach.
As well as the aforementioned ladder-frame chassis, the Sportage also has a dual-range transfer case. So these are regarded as ‘real’ 4WDs by those who are serious about their off-roaders. However, Sportages are not intended for constant heavy-duty work in the manner of Patrols and LandCruisers. On the other hand, the lighter weight and narrower body sometimes lets a Sportage can go where the big boys get stuck.
Drive in the Sportage is part-time 2WD to the rear wheels through a limited slip differential. The front wheels have automatic hubs and are engaged by the driver as needed when the back wheels start to lose their grip on the landscape.
Seating is fine for the two in front, but the rear seat legroom may prove marginal if tall adults are seated in the front. Luggage space is good for a 4WD in this class, especially from the updated 2000 model onwards.
 Most Sportages are powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine. It is a modern twin-cam design with sequential fuel injection and four valves per cylinder so was ahead of its time on introduction. From the 2005 model a 2.7-litre V6 was also offered. More expensive, but with impressive torque and a nicely refined output, it’s well worth considering.
Suspension is by double wishbones at the front and a four-link setup at the rear. Handling and ride are the weak points of the Sportage. The suspension is under damped, resulting in a relatively soft and pitchy ride that doesn’t inspire confidence on secondary sealed roads.
Off-road you will find the combination of good ground clearance, decent approach and departure angles and big wheels allows you to go into some pretty difficult areas. As mentioned, the Sportage isn’t aimed at constant hard work, but on forest trails and beaches it really works nicely.
Kia Sportage is safe enough in its on-road handling, provided the driver doesn’t try to push it too hard. Things were improved somewhat at the beginning of 1999 with suspension changes, and again with the longer body of 2000. Always remember that it’s a small truck, not a passenger car and you will stay out of trouble.
 Rear drum brakes don't give a lot of continual stopping power in hilly areas with a load on board. Try them for yourself if you are going to be driving in those circumstances. Overheating will result in the pedal going closer to the floor, meaning it’s time to back off.
Prices for spare parts and servicing are about average for this class, perhaps a little cheaper than for some Japanese competitors.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR
Serious off-road use is rare so if you find a Sportage with body and underbody damage take care. The areas that usually suffer first are the door sills, bumper corners and protection plates.
Also look for fine scratches in side panels that have been scraped through scrub.
Make sure the engine starts easily, idles smoothly and has reasonable performance at all times. Any hesitation under acceleration is a sign to be wary.
Check the gearshift is smooth and quiet and doesn’t crunch on fast downchanges.
Check the brakes pull the 4WD up easily with no pulling to one side, and without one wheel locking before the others.
Look over the interior trim for rips, tears, burns and other damage. Off-roaders can really get knocked around in this area when people clamber in and out with dirty clothes and heavy-duty boots.
CAR BUYING TIP
Always shop around for insurance, there can be real savings. But be sure you understand what you are getting for your premium dollar, and make sure to compare apples with apples.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Print Article
Submit Feedback
Email This Article
