2005 Kia Sportage SUV Introduction

An all new Kia Sportage sport utility vehicle makes its world debut in September, 2004, putting the company back into the compact SUV market. Kia's new SUV offers more power and features than its original, mid-nineties Sportage. Here's what we know so far about the U.S. version:

Sportage Engine Options:

• 2.0-liter 4-cylinder, available in a 2WD vehicle with either a 5-speed manual or an optional 4-speed automatic transmission. Also available in 4WD vehicles with a 5-speed manual transmission.

• 2.7-liter V6 (175 hp) in either 2WD or 4WD vehicles with a 4-speed automatic transmission.

• 2.0-liter diesel engine mated to manual or H-Matic 4-speed automatic transmissions (automatic only for the V6).

Kia Sportage Interior and Cargo

• Full-flat front seats
• Fold and dive, split rear seats
• Spare tire under cargo floor
• Upward swinging hatch
• Flip-up tailgate glass

Sportage Safety Features

• Six airbags, including full-length side-curtain airbags
• Anti-lock brakes available on some models
• Traction control system and an electronic stability program available on some models

Kia says the new Sportage SUV has a longer wheelbase and larger overall exterior width and height than the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V. The automaker also reports that Sportage interior dimensions are roomier than the competition's. We'll have to wait for a full list of specs and features to make comparisons.

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Larger Photos of the Sportage