KIA LAUNCHES ALL-NEW SPORTAGE

While the current-model Kia Sportage could hardly be called the most exciting looking soft-roader in its class, the new 2010 model adopts a whole new approach – and should provide tough new competition when it goes on sale in the UK in September.

Sharing its platform with the forthcoming Hyundai ix35, the Sportage has been styled by ex-Audi designer Peter Schreyer. Both vehicles will be built on the same production line at Kia’s Slovakian plant.

Styling is much bolder than the outgoing Sportage’s, with a more muscular stance thanks to its high waistline, narrow glass, large alloys and sloping C-pillars. And it’s the latest vehicle to feature Kia’s new corporate look, with front-end styling similar to the larger Sorento.

Kia will offer the Sportage in both front- and four-wheel drive guises, although the front-drive versions are expected to make up the bulk of sales in Britain.

There’s more room on board this latest model, thanks to a longer wheelbase than the old Sportage, helping to increase both interior and boot space. And being longer, wider and lower than before, the latest Sportage is claimed to be a major advance in terms of both on-road handling and grip.

A 131bhp (224lb.ft.) 2.0-litre turbo-diesel will be offered initially, with a 1.6-litre petrol with stop-start likely to follow towards the end of the year, as well as a 158bhp, 1.7-litre turbo-diesel. Pricing is expected to start from around £15,500.