To most consumers who are shopping for a sports utility vehicle the 2009 Kia Sportage will stand out from the crowd quickly, mainly because it has an overall quality not found in most of the competition. It is becoming increasingly difficult to find a sports utility vehicle that does not have at least one major flaw, and the 2009 Kia Sportage is strong in all areas of concern. With a manufacturers suggested retail price starting at $16,695, the 2009 Kia Sportage gets decent gas mileage – 20 miles per gallon in the city and 25 miles per gallon on the highway, which is about average for this class.
On the exterior, the 2009 Kia Sportage is a little more attractive than most sports utility vehicles, and has managed to lost that look of a box on wheels that become so prevalent. The 2009 Kia Sportage is sporty, starting with the 16 inch alloy wheels and the dual exhaust. Somehow, the 2009 Kia Sportage is able to combine functionality with a pleasant appearance, with dual power mirrors, multi-reflector headlights, integrated roof rails and rear privacy glass.
As far as safety features go, the 2009 Kia Sportage is one of the better sports utility vehicles out there in terms of a complete safety package. Driver and passenger front and side airbags and full side curtain airbags have vehicle occupants covered from all angles in an accident. The 2009 Kia Sportage is built with side impact door beams, that can reduce the chances of a serious injury in a side collision. The tire pressure monitoring system can warn of a serious potential danger well before it happens.
The 2009 Kia Sportage is powered by a DOHC 4-cylinder engine that has a 140 Horsepower output at 6,000 RPM’s, and a five speed manual overdrive transmission. Sure stops are made possible by the Kia’s 4 wheel anti-lock disc brakes. A McPherson strut front suspension and a dual link rear suspension allow the 2009 Kia Sportage to give a better than average ride. With a towing capacity of 1,500 pounds, the Kia Sportage is a good all-around recreational vehicle.
On the interior is where the 2009 Kia Sportage really stands out from the competition. With features like air conditioning, power windows and door locks, cruise control, a tilt steering column, digital clock, and rear cargo under floor storage, the Sportage is special. A 6 way adjustable driver’s seat and 60/40 split folding rear seatback make comfort easy. A audio system with an AM/FM stereo with a CD player and MP3 capability is a good sound experience.
In the field of sports utility vehicles, if the 2009 Kia Sportage is not at the top of the class, it’s awfully close.
