2019 Kia Sportage SLi Review

I’m always singing the praises of what comes off the Kia production line and rightly so, with the Kia Sportage continuing to maintain that pedigree.

No matter if it is a midlife upgrade or new model, the Sportage offers up a complete value for money package there with the best in the category.

The SLi road tested sits just under the range topping GT-Line at $37,310. The Sportage range starts from under $30k.

Taking it for an extended road test over the festive season, the Kia Sportage SLi did the daily rounds, Christmas shopping, ferried guests, and made a trip to the beach. A very liveable car.

Exterior

The nose is a happening place with black and chrome inserts, bulging ‘eyes’ and an open mouthed grille.

The rear is neat and compact with integrated lower lights and red lights connected by a red strip that divides the tailgate. Above this sites the roof spoiler.

Black plastic side skirts and wheel arches outline the body which ride on attractive 18” alloys.

The door handles have keyless entry buttons and the indicators are mounted on the wing mirrors.

By no means opulent, it still sports a profile that is eye-catching as it cruises down the highway.

Interior

The interior is a pretty schmick place with leather appointed seats, wheel and an all-black cabin.

The dash, as always is a neat and organised with Kia defined features ie. big buttons with clear markings, a floor console with cup holders and storage hovel with regulation USB and 12V ports.

Screens are also big and legible with a colour LCD driver info display in the instrument cluster and a large main touchscreen complete with DAB+, sat-nav and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto.

Rear passengers are definitely not forgotten with rear air vents, good headroom and seat backs that recline for more articulation and comfort.

Features

• Leather appointed seats
• Powered driver’s seat
• Electric folding mirrors
• 8” touchscreen
• 2” colour lcd instrument cluster
• Digital radio
• Sat-nav
• Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
• JBL speakers sound system
• Dual zone climate control
• 2nd row vents

Drive and Engine

On the whole, the 2.0 litre petrol Kia Sportage possesses a decent drive and ride though it does lack a little low down acceleration.

Only 114kW of max power means quick acceleration or uphill climbs are a struggle however, there is an acceptable quantity for everyday travel.

There is no turbo assistance though a sport mode does turn things up a notch.

A smaller frame means better manipulation and fuel economy.

The Sportage handles well and is easy to manage plus there’s the consumption of under 10L/100km.

Ride comfort and braking also get big ticks.

Safety

• AEB
• Lane keep assist
• Hill start assist
• Sensors front and rear
• Rear view camera
• ISOFIX

Good Bits

• Value for money
• Interior styling
• General ride and drive quality
• Cargo blind sits flush to the seat

Not So Good Bits

• No turbo option
• No lane departure
• Lacks low acceleration

Summary

You can’t go to wrong with any selection from the Kia range.

The Kia Sportage SLi has a good balance of creature comforts – neither sparse or extravagant – and for a reasonable amount of dough.

A competent little SUV with a likeable personality, the Kia Sportage is highly competitive in the segment as a well-rounded offering.

The.

Facts and Figures: 2019 Kia Sportage SLi

• Engine: 2.0L four-cylinder petrol producing 114kW/192Nm
• Transmission: Six-speed sports automatic
• Warranty: 7 years/ unlimited km
• Safety: Five stars
• Origin: South Korea
• Price: from $37,310