2000 Kia Sportage 4X4 EX review from North America
"Great value, nice style"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Catch on the arm rest back tray broke - but then I've been rough with it. Easy (self) fix.
General comments?
Haven't seen a relationship between the mostly bad press and my vehicle's performance.
Needs a 6th gear or a different final gear ratio to drop the RPMs and raise the gas mileage when highway cruising.
Rear wiper needs an intermittent setting.
Needs better placement of the rear wiper controls.
Hatch could use a handle to open, and the rear lock should unlock with the central locking system. I hate using the key each time I have to open the rear hatch.
I had a Honda Accord before this vehicle and I like this better. The Honda was reliable, but god-awful boring.
Also owned a Toyota SR5 4X4. The Sportage is better on ice and snow. More comfortable and just as dependable.
Recommended reviews
![]() ![]() | A great little go-getter! |
![]() ![]() | 1999 - Sportage Base 2.0 Liter In-Line 4 Cylinder I would buy this SUV again! |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 1999 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2001 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.0 FI Manual |
| Performance marks | 7/10 |
| Reliability marks | 9/10 |
| Comfort marks | 9/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 10/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 7/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 6 miles |
| Most recent distance | 10500 miles |
| Previous car | Honda Accord |
| Date of Entry | 9th May, 2001 |

