BY Motlatsi Kekana

I have always said my next car is going to be a Kia. I say this because I have been marvelling at how the brand has grown over the years. You cannot deny the innovation, progressive designs, and beautiful styling that each car under this brand has undergone. Lucky me, I have also gotten the pleasure of driving some of their latest models in the past couple of years.

I saw myself in a Seltos – a small SUV with a lively personality. Not too big and with the right amount of gadgets such as the smart entry, push-button start, and a luxurious interior. Then I saw the new Sportage. After spending a couple of days in it, I was obsessed. If they had allowed me, I swear I would have slept in that car. Since then, I definitely see myself in the Sportage GT-Line. What I like about this brand is that even with its evident growth, it still maintains affordable pricing. But that’s not the only thing I like of course.

There are loads of good looks in this model in question. Kia is what the youth are calling Whylin which I believe is a form of compliment. I think the fifth-generation Kia Sportage’s exterior has people charmed. The design screams futuristic, sophisticated, and aggressive. That “I shall let you pass Ma’am” energy followed me everywhere. The 19-inch wheels that beautifully contrast black and silver tones complete this gal’s exceptionally styled exterior. It also helps that Kia has introduced some cool body colours with this model, and so far I love orange and green.

Now let’s delve into the interior that boasts a premium feel. The first noticeable thing is the curved 12.3-inch driver-centred touchscreen. I was kind of disappointed in how it displays the info, I didn’t expect cartoons on such a monstrous screen. Maybe my expectations were too high. However, that does not take anything away from the tech. The infotainment system has Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and there’s also wireless charging. You also get some comfy seats that can be heated and ventilated, in artificial pleather.  If interested, there is also an option for the panoramic sunroof box.

The drive is the most fun part of the Sportage. The entire range is powered by a 1.6T-GDi engine, My test unit was a petrol engine that is agile and fuel efficient and uses a 7-speed Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) producing 132kW and 265Nm of torque. This is a responsive engine that won’t hurt your pocket as you’d think. Having driven the new Sportage, I don’t need any more convincing on what my next car should be. My mind is made up. I bet you that we will be seeing a lot of this car on our roads soon enough because great minds think alike.

Model & Pricing

Sportage 1.6T – GDi LX  R539,995

Sportage 1.6T – GDi EX  R593,995

Sportage 1.6 – GDi GT-Line        R649,995

Sportage 1.6 – GDi GT-Line Plus R677,995

Sportage 1.6 – GDi GT-Line S                 R734,995

 IMAGES PROVIDED