Kia Sportage 1.6T AWD: a relaxed and stylish SUV – test drive
The SUV segment in Malaysia is truly vibrant, featuring a variety of models and brands, both local and foreign.
It can be overwhelming if you are unsure of the criteria to consider.
If you are looking for something that stands out from the typical SUVs on the roads, we recommend the Kia Sportage 1.6T AWD as a solid choice.
It has everything you need for a daily-use vehicle, and most importantly, the driving satisfaction you crave.
What’s the point of buying an expensive car if you’re not satisfied with the driving experience, right?
Below is our opinion after borrowing this Kia Sportage from Kia Malaysia for a week.
Exterior Design: too striking?
For your information, the Kia Sportage marketed here is the pre-facelift version that has been around since 2021.
The more aggressive facelift version was launched in South Korea at the end of 2024; however, to say that the design of the Sportage is outdated would be inaccurate.
Even in its pre-facelift version, the Kia Sportage remains eye-catching when cruising on the road.
With boomerang LED graphics both at the front and rear, as well as a low roofline at the back, the Sportage exudes the sporty image it aims for.
At the very least, it is an original design that can make owners satisfied when they look at it, rather than resembling any other model.
If you don’t turn back to admire your car after parking, you might have bought the wrong vehicle.
Dimensions
The AWD version of the Kia Sportage measures 4,660 mm in length, 1,865 mm in width, and 1,665 mm in height, offering a wheelbase of 2,755 mm.
As a C-segment SUV, the Kia Sportage provides a comfortable cabin space for the whole family.
The absence of a panoramic sunroof is not a major issue, as headroom in this cabin is sufficiently spacious.
Rear passengers can also adjust the angle of their seatbacks for a more comfortable sitting posture, so they don’t have to remain upright all the time.
The Kia Sportage offers a standard cargo space of 543 liters, which can expand to a remarkable 1,829 liters with the second-row seats folded down.
Pleasant Features
One of the aspects I appreciated about the Kia Sportage is its driver-friendly dashboard layout.
In addition to the dual 12.3-inch curved screens, the Sportage dashboard features a touch-based control panel complete with physical knobs.
You can adjust the cabin temperature or change the media content playing through the eight speakers of the Harman Kardon audio system from this panel.
For me, this is a user-friendly feature that is highly welcome.
This is because most manufacturers tend to crowd the central screen with various functional buttons, requiring a search and potentially distracting the driver.
The center console also houses several important function buttons that are clear and easy to reach.
The PRND shift-by-wire dial certainly gives the cockpit a more spacious feel; however, there are times when I found the unconventional gear shifting somewhat awkward.
The digital cluster display in the Sportage continues to offer analog meter graphics with several themes that can be selected according to the driving mode (Eco, Normal, Sport, Smart).
Don’t worry— the infotainment screen also provides standard support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. You won’t have to wait for over-the-air (OTA) updates.
If you notice, the back of the front passenger headrest features a large hook that is perfect for hanging bags or shawls.
Additionally, there are a few “teh tarik” hooks provided, making the Kia Sportage more user-friendly for Malaysians than some Malaysian-branded SUVs available on the market.
What About the Driving Experience?
The unit we tested is equipped with a 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-four Gamma II T-GDI engine that produces 177 hp at 5,500 rpm and 265 Nm of torque at 4,500 rpm.
This power is transmitted to an all-wheel drive (AWD) system via a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT).
As experienced during the media test drive, the Kia Sportage 1.6T AWD offers somewhat sluggish response at low rpm ranges.
This presents some challenges when maneuvering in low-speed situations, such as in parking areas, where the Sportage hesitates to deliver power.
However, once this SUV reaches normal cruising speeds, the cabin feels quieter, with minimal vibration and roughness.
This is attributed to the MacPherson strut front suspension and multi-link rear suspension, which work effectively to absorb road imperfections.
It also allows the SUV to feel stable in corners with body roll that isn’t overly pronounced, making the driving experience more enjoyable.
However, if driven aggressively, these advantages can disappear. Therefore, it’s crucial to understand the limits and constraints of the Kia Sportage.
I have no comments regarding the handling of this SUV, as it meets what one would expect from a Kia vehicle.
The precise and responsive steering assist keeps me focused on the winding roads ahead, allowing the vehicle to comply with every direction given by the driver’s hands.
There are times when the steering correction system engages to ensure the SUV stays on course, but its operation never feels tiring or annoying.
Safety Features
The Kia Sportage offers a comprehensive range of safety features, including six airbags, ABS, ESC, and an extensive list of advanced safety technologies.
What I want to emphasize here is the Blind-Spot Monitoring (BVM) system, which displays what is in the blind spots to the left and right of the vehicle when the turn signal is activated.
This system, found in any Kia model (including Hyundai), significantly aids in detecting objects (cars, motorcyclists) that are typically obscured in the blind spot.
Other manufacturers offer more advanced 360-degree cameras that provide a bird’s-eye view.
However, most of the time, these are more for show, as they display images of the car being driven rather than what is concealed in the blind spot.
Sportage for Weekend Getaways
Another feature I appreciate about the Kia Sportage is the rear seats that can fold flat.
There’s no need to spend money on a tent; you can transform the back of the Kia Sportage into a ‘temporary tent’ for relaxing weekend activities.
In the cargo area, there is a 12V power outlet that can be used for charging smart devices or powering light equipment.
Additionally, there is a ‘Sound of Nature’ feature available in the Sportage’s infotainment screen to accompany your activities.
While enjoying leisure time, don’t forget your obligations as a Muslim.
If you wish to fulfill your prayer duties while camping, the Kia Sportage also features a qibla direction compass to serve as a guide.
Conclusion
Is the Kia Sportage 1.6T AWD the best SUV in its class?
Undeniably, the Kia Sportage has its unique advantages compared to competing models in the market.
It has a striking design, a practical package, spacious and comfortable cabin space, and nearly comprehensive safety features.
However, if you’re willing to compromise on the weaknesses mentioned, we believe that the Kia Sportage can be a worthwhile purchase.
Specifications of the Kia Sportage 1.6T AWD (RM186,899)
- Engine: Gamma II 1.6-liter turbo, four-cylinder inline
- Power: 177 hp @ 5,500 rpm, 265 Nm @ 1,500-4,500 rpm
- Transmission: Seven-speed DCT
- Drive: All-wheel drive (AWD)
- Suspension: MacPherson strut / Multi-link
- Cargo Capacity: 543 liters – 1,829 liters
