All-new Kia Sportage outclasses its competitors
1 November, 2022
Similarly when comparing the Kia Sportage 1.6T EX DCT which retails for R593 995 against the Hyundai Tucson 2.0 Executive AT which retails for R589 900 the Sportage offers tremendously better value for money when one considers the additional equipment with which it is fitted.
Once again the Sportage trumps the Tucson in the drivetrain department, thanks to a turbocharged engine that offers significantly more power and torque as well as a seven-speed dual clutch transmission.
Step inside and this Sportage derivative is littered with all the latest technology and creature comforts, including remote folding seats, USB C ports, a 12-inch infotainment screen, heated front and rear seats, a heated steering wheel, electric passenger seat adjustment and driver memory seats.
LED rear tail lights complete a sophisticated lighting technology package that is befitting of the vehicles modern design.
A six-year service plan also ensures peace of mind and a low cost of ownership for a substantial period of time.
State of the art interior
The interior is bold, features quality materials and the latest innovation in technology that combines to create a state of the art driver orientated space. Centrally located in the cabin is an integrated curved display with a slim touchscreen pad and finely detailed air vents. The high-tech 12.3-inch touchscreen allows for control of passenger connectivity, functionality and usability needs.
Under the bonnet
The Sportage is offered with a 1.6 litre T-GDi turbocharged engine mated exclusively to an advanced version of Kia’s seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, giving it a healthy balance of power and performance along with excellent fuel consumption. Maximum power is rated at 132kW along with 265 Nm of torque.
Outclassing its main competitor
When comparing the Kia Sportage 1.6T LX DCT and the Hyundai Tucson 2.0 Premium AT, both of which are currently priced at R539 995 the Kia Sportage offers a number of advantages.
In terms of drivetrain, the Sportage offers the latest technology in the form of a turbocharged engine and dual clutch transmission.
When stepping inside, the Sportage trumps the Tucson with the addition of a smart key with push button start, dual automatic temperature control, a leather steering wheel and gear shifter, lumbar support and blind spot collision warning.
The Sportage also boasts exterior equipment such as roof rails, LED headlamps and LED fog lamps, which ensure that it looks more modern than its Tucson competitor.
In South Africa the SUV segment is one of the most popular, both in terms of consumer demand and the wide range of products offered. Two of the biggest competitors in this segment are the Korean cousins in the form of the Kia Sportage and the Hyundai Tucson. However, when carefully studying the specification sheets of these two models, it appears that the recently launched Kia Sportage has the upper hand in a number of departments.
As Kia’s most loved and best selling model globally, the newcomer is a flag bearer of Kia’s pioneering DNA and aims to lead by example in every department.
Read our latest articles for tips and advice