Kia Sportage

The redesigned Sportage is a stylish and mildly sporty choice among small SUVs. Most versions are equipped with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder, and the top-trim SX version sports a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder. Both are mated to a smooth six-speed automatic transmission. Though a touch firm, the ride is composed and handling is responsive. Unlike the similar Hyundai Tucson, the Sportage benefits from the pairing of a larger engine and a conventional automatic transmission, which combine to give it smoother power delivery. The rear seat is roomy and the controls are easy to use, but visibility to the rear and side is difficult. The new Sportage scored a Good in the IIHS small-overlap crash test.

The 2011 redesign brought nimble handling, along with a more efficient and civilized powertrain. Still though, a stiff ride, pronounced road noise and leisurely acceleration from the base four-cylinder engine detracts from an otherwise pleasant driving experience. It got 22 mpg overall in our tests. The up-level engine is a stronger turbocharged four-cylinder that got 21 mpg overall in our tests. While the styling is appealing, it compromises cargo space and hurts the rear view out. Cabin appointments are basic, but fit together well. In the end though, we don't recommend the Sportage as it scores too low in our testing. A poor result in the IIHS small overlap crash test completely knocks the Sportage out of contention.

The 2005 car-based Sportage was better than its predecessors. It has a relatively comfortable and quiet ride, as well as a roomy interior and improved, but still so-so handling. Gauges are easy to read and controls are very simple to use, including the knobs for the radio and climate control. Almost everything is well placed and clearly labeled. Minor gripes include a tiny, floor-mounted fuel release lever, a stiff steering wheel adjustment release and unlighted mirror controls. Further, the 2.7-liter V6 isn't very fuel-efficient. Overall, this version of the Sportage falls midpack in our Ratings and far short of the class-leading models.

Kia got a toehold in the growing small-SUV segment when it introduced its trucklike Sportage in 1995. The Sportage is made in the mold of the Geo Tracker and Suzuki Sidekick, with a body-on-frame chassis instead of the carlike unibody construction that's become common on small SUVs. A shorter-wheelbase, two-door soft-top model expanded the model range in 1998. The Sportage has an uncomfortable ride, clumsy handling, and a noisy, unrefined powertrain. It offers only a part-time 4WD system that can't be used on dry roads. Overall, it's not nearly as good as the Toyota RAV4 or Honda CR-V. Discontinued after the 2002 model year, the Sportage was revived for 2005.