A whole new variant for the Kia Sportage

While the world is getting to know the fourth generation Sportage, we first meet the acquaintance of the 2WD variant on our shores.

The Kia Sportage now gets a new variant for potential owners to pick from with the introduction of a 2WD option. Naza has decided to introduce the Sportage 2WD specification into the C-segment market and the company has high hopes for the model.

This 2WD Sportage will embody all that the Sportage is, incorporating key features of an SUV in a more urban-friendly package all on a 2WD drivetrain instead of four.

So you still get the same “tiger-nose” radiator grille and piercing front projector headlamps with LED Light guide and fog lamp and the prominent rear combination lamps that offer enhanced illumination and improved visibility decorates the rear. The sides are dominated by chunky door handles, large wing mirrors and 17-inch sport rim alloy wheels. Inside, the comfortable interior is highlighted by a leather trimmed steering wheel boosted by Motor Driven Power Steering.

A multi-point injection (MPI) 2.0-litre Nu engine that combines with a six-speed automatic transmission that develops 152bhp at 6200rpm and 191Nm at 4700rpm of torque hides beneath that clamshell bonnet while an Infinity sound system plays music from seven speakers placed throughout the car. The Sportage 2WD does not miss out on the safety aspect as well, you get twin front, side and curtain airbags and a host of the usual Electronic Stability Program like ABS, ESC and VSM.

The Sportage 2WD will set you back a RM118,888 on the road with a choice of Clear White, Bright Silver and Mineral Silver to pick from. Naza has high hopes that the Kia Sportage will contribute ten per cent to the total sales target for the 2015 year.

Jerrica Leong