7. Kia Sportage SUV
What’s New?
The 2016 Sportage gets a few minor changes, including a touch-screen display with the rearview camera for the popular package of the LX trim and the standard leather upholstery for both the SX and EX trims.
A few of EX’s previously standard features are now optional (including the Infinity stereo). The SX drops its xenon headlights but comes standard with the formerly optional ventilated front seats and a panoramic sunroof.
Exterior Features
The 2016 Sportage has fascinating standard exterior features, including black beltline molding, arrow mesh type radiator grille, body-color exterior door handles, body-color power adjustable outside mirrors, body-color bumpers with chrome garnish, solar control glass, privacy glass, sound-absorbing front windshield glass, heated rear glass with timer, rear wiper/washer, variable intermittent windshield wipers, the projector beam headlights, locking fuel filler door, LED positioning lights, and 17” alloy wheels.
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Interior Features
The interior of 2016 Kia Sportage is a good-looking space with a design which gives it a bolder appearance than the more standard competitors. Gauges, buttons, knobs, and other controls are considerately laid out and very easy to use, particularly the navigation functions that are accessed via the 7” touchscreen.
The major aesthetic downside here is the widespread use of tough plastic throughout the cabin, which is partly offset by the fact that it is nicely accented and textured by well-placed padding in the useful areas, such as the armrest over the center console.
The front seats provide good support and comfort, but the 3-place rear bench is a different story. The legroom in the second row is in short supply, and although the reclining seatbacks are a plus, it would have been great to be able to slide the bench seat back and forward like those in high-priced models.
Technology
Modern connectivity and technology features abound in the Sportage. The LX trim includes USB and auxiliary inputs, as well as Bluetooth with the steering-wheel controls for hands-free calling.
In addition, the Sirius satellite radio is included with the trial subscription. Kia’s new UVO entertainment and communication system are standard on the SX and EX models. Developed by Microsoft, it can play music easily through the voice controls; the system includes HD radio as well as SD-card capability.
Engine/ Fuel Efficiency
The 2016 Kia Sportage comes with two distinct 4-cylinder engines. The EX and LX models come with the 2.4-liter version which produces 182 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque. The SX model receives a more powerful turbocharged 2.0-liter engine which cranks out 260 horsepower and 269 lb-ft. The two engines come paired with a 6-speed automatic. Optional in all-wheel drive, with the standard in front-wheel drive.
EPA fuel-economy estimates for the front-drive EX and LX are 24 mpg combined (21 city/28 highway). The all-wheel-drive EX and LX drop to 22 mpg combined (19 city/26 highway).
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Safety
Standard safety features on 2016 Kia Sportage include traction control and stability control, antilock disc brakes, front-seat side airbags, active front head restraints, and full-length side curtain airbags.
Uvo telematics system of Kia that is standard on the LX and EX trims includes stolen vehicle tracking, emergency and roadside assistance, geofencing and the speed tracking (allowing parents/guardians to set limits for teenage drivers), and other smartphone-enabled features accessible via the Uvo app.
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