Overview

What Changed for 2008:

• Few changes from 2007 model
• Mirror controls add embossed L (left), R (right) markings

Overview
One of the original Kia models sold in the U.S. when the brand arrived in 1995, the Sportage was discontinued in 2002 when the Sorento was launched. Today's 5-passenger Sportage shares its car-based platform-as well as many of its styling cues-with the Hyundai Tucson. The Sportage was re-introduced in 2005, and has seen minimal changes since then.

As with other Kia models, the Sportage is covered by a competitive warranty: 5 years or 60,000 miles of bumper-to-bumper coverage including roadside assistance; the powertrain is covered for 10 years or 100,000 miles.

Model Lineup
The 2008 Kia Sportage LX models start with front and rear tow hooks, roof rails, and a front-end skid plate. It includes power windows and mirrors, rear privacy glass, and a 6-speaker AM/FM/CD stereo system. The EX adds a one-touch power sunroof, fog lights, heated outside mirrors, remote keyless entry, and upgraded seat fabric. Air conditioning is standard on all models, except for the LX.

All Sportages get 16-inch wheels, although versions with the V-6 engine get wider tires. The "drop-and-fold" rear seat creates a flat area for cargo carrying. The rear cargo area features four tie-down anchors plus an under-floor tray. The front passenger seat folds as well, allowing Sportage owners to carry ladders or other long objects. With the rear seat folded, cargo capacity expands to 66.6 cubic feet.

Powertrain
The standard engine in the 2008 Kia Sportage is a 140-hp, 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine with Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT). A 5-speed manual transmission is standard; a 4-speed automatic transmission is optional. Optional with either LX or EX trim levels is a 173-hp, 2.7-liter V-6 engine, which comes with a 4-speed automatic transmission with Sportmatic. Both front-wheel- and full-time 4-wheel-drive (FWD and 4WD) models are offered. According to the EPA, 2008 fuel economy for the Sportage ranges from 20 mpg city/25 mpg highway in the FWD, 4-cylinder engine, manual-shifter model to 17 mpg city/21 mpg highway for the 4WD V-6 engine with automatic transmission.

Safety
The Sportage gets an "Acceptable" rating in both frontal offset and side-impact crash tests conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Standard safety equipment includes front, side, and side curtain air bags; anti-lock brakes; traction control; and electronic stability control.

Technology
The Sport package, an option on 2008 Kia Sportage V-6 LX models, features fog lights; sport-gauge instrument cluster; black mesh grille; leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob; rear spoiler; cargo cover; and an upgraded 6-speaker AM/FM/CD stereo.