Review: The Sporty and Stylish Kia Sportage GT-Line SUV – Turning Heads

Kia has been on a hot streak lately. The Kia Sportage is a sporty & stylish SUV turning heads everywhere and enjoying plenty of success. They say, “if we build it, they will come”, and Kia seems to have found some success with that theory. Midsize crossover SUVs have proven popular, especially among younger customers who want something compact that is still fun and family-friendly. Introducing the 2022 Kia Sportage GT-Line.

Introduction to the Kia Sportage SUV

The Kia Sportage has been a very popular choice among SUV lovers for several years, and the latest model is no exception. It’s a very good looking compact SUV that combines sporty design with practicality and versatility. The 2022 Kia Sportage is available in four trim levels: S, SX, SX+, and GT-Line. All trims apart from the GT-Line come with front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive variants – the GT-Line is AWD only. The Sportage is powered by a choice of three engines: a 2.0-litre four-cylinder 16 valve engine that produces 115kW and 192Nm of torque, a turbocharged 1.6-litre four-cylinder 16 valve engine that delivers 132kW and 265Nm of torque, or a turbocharged 1.6 litre four-cylinder 16 valve diesel engine that delivers 137kW and 416Nm of torque.

Features of the Sporty and Stylish Kia Sportage

The 2022 Kia Sportage GT-Line is packed with features that make it a top choice in its segment. The curved 12.3″ Digital Instrument Cluster and 12.3″ Touch Screen Infotainment system, beautifully set in a single arc is a design highlight. The system comes with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility as standard. Other standard features on the GT-Line include a panoramic sunroof, heated and ventilated front seats, a magnificent 8 Speaker Harmon Kardon Premium Sound System, and a 360-degree camera system. Connectivity is important and the cabin contains several USB-A and USB-C ports. Adding further luxuriousness is mood lighting with 64 colours to choose from and a wireless charging pad for your phone.

Performance and engine specs of the Kia Sportage

The Kia Sportage – the sporty & stylish SUV turning heads – is known for its impressive performance, and the 2022 model is no exception. The turbocharged 1.6-litre engine delivers clean acceleration and impressive handling. This makes the GT-Line an excellent choice for those wanting sporty characteristics with their practicality. The petrol variant gets a 7-speed DCT transmission, and the diesel version has an eight-speed automatic transmission. A 54-litre fuel tank is standard across the range.

Comparing the Kia Sportage with other SUVs in the same segment

The compact SUV segment is one of the most competitive in the industry, with several top contenders vying for attention. So, how does the Kia Sportage stack up against its competitors? Well, it holds its own thanks to its unique blend of sporty design, practicality, and advanced features. When compared to rivals like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4, the Sportage stands out for its more engaging driving experience and more stylish design. However, it falls slightly short in terms of fuel efficiency and cargo space.

The Sportage GT-Line has 543 L / 1,829 L compared to 615 L and 1,655 L with the 2nd-row of seats folded down on the Volkswagen Tiguan for example.

Head Turning Interior and Exterior design of the Kia Sportage

The Kia Sportage is a sporty & stylish SUV turning heads, thanks to its bold and sporty design. The latest model features a new front grille design, sleek ‘boomerang’ LED headlights, and a sculpted hood. The overall look is both modern and sophisticated, with a touch of aggression that sets it apart from its more conservative rivals. The interior is equally impressive, with a spacious and comfortable cabin that’s packed with advanced features. The dashboard is dominated by the large touchscreen infotainment system, which is intuitive and easy to use.

Accommodation for 5 adults in the leather and suede seats is impressive. The front seats are electronically adjustable in 8 directions and include heating and very effective cooling.

Safety features of the Kia Sportage

Safety is a top priority for any SUV buyer, and the Kia Sportage delivers in this regard. All trims come with a range of advanced safety features, including lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and a rearview camera. Higher trims add blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a 360-degree camera system. Unsurprisingly, the Sportage comes with a 5-star ANCAP safety rating.

Infotainment and tech features of the Kia Sportage

Tech-savvy buyers looking for a well-specified family SUV will find the Kia Sportage a top choice. The 12.3-inch touch-screen infotainment system with Harmon Kardon premium audio is class-leading. Integration of the HVAC and audio controls on the dashboard is an inspired use of space and features. Furthermore, stylish Hydrographic woodgrain trim continues the angular design theme around the interior.

Conclusion: Is the Kia Sportage worth your investment?

So, after taking an in-depth look at the Kia Sportage GT-Line, is it worth your investment? The answer is a resounding yes. This SUV offers a unique blend of sporty design, practicality, and advanced features, making it a top choice in its segment. Whether you’re looking for a daily driver or an edgy SUV that can handle weekend adventures, the Kia Sportage GT-Line has something for everyone.

Finished in Jungle Wood Green with a black interior, the Sportage GT-Line that I tested is available to drive away for just under $55,000.

Kia’s Unlimited kilometre 7-Year Warranty is another reason to consider the Sportage if you’re in the market for a sub-$60K SUV.

Final Thoughts

The 2023 Kia Sportage GT-Line SUV is a standout choice in the compact SUV segment. It offers impressive performance, advanced features, and a sporty design that sets it apart from its rivals. Whether you’re looking for a daily driver or a weekend warrior, the Sportage is a versatile and practical choice that won’t disappoint.