1997 Kia Sportage EX review from North America
"A bad deal"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Gas tank 'rusted out' at 39,000 miles; had to have everything from the gas tank to the injectors replaced. Dealer did pay for part of that mess, and gave me a loaner, besides.
Electrical items wearing out; electric windows are slow, radio buttons don't work, mirrors don't work.
Automatic transmission won't drop into passing gear.
Poor gas mileage for such a small engine.
"Check Engine" light is on, I refuse to pay the dealer $60 to have them reset it - again.
General comments?
It was a cheap way to get a 4WD. Very cheap, poorly made, lousy quality.
Poor acceleration.
The dealer has tried to make good on the car, but I am on a first name basis with the woman in the Service Department.
I'm trying to get rid of it, but can't find a sucker to buy it.
Recommended Reviews:
  | A piece of junk, not worthy of the junkyard |
| 1995 - Sportage EX 4WD 2.0 liter gasonline The 'War Wagon' of the Mini Utes |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| First year of ownership | 2000 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2002 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.0 Liter Automatic |
| Performance marks | 4/10 |
| Reliability marks | 3/10 |
| Comfort marks | 4/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 5/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 3/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 35000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 78000 miles |
| Previous car | Eagle Summit |
| Date of Entry | 6th May, 2002 |