1996 Kia Sportage GLX review from UK and Ireland
"Cheap to buy, but no bargain"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Persistent problems with tracking - dealer unable to fix to my satisfaction.
Heat shield on exhaust rattles - replaced four times under warranty.
Rattle from 4WD transfer box. Sorted under warranty.
Perspex instrument cover cracked. Six month wait for replacement.
Poor finish on chrome wheel nuts and spare wheel support. Both rusted despite regular cleaning.
Untraced electrical gremlins left me stranded on one occasion (refused to start).
General comments?
Good driving position. Comfortable interior, but poor fit and finish.
Ride is poor - the rear over sprung and under damped. This can be improved by carrying some weight (e.g.a couple of bags of sand).
Engine is noisy and thirsty (26mpg), but mechanically sound. (I believe it's from a Mazda 626)
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  | 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 | 1998 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2002 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.0 petrol Manual |
| Performance marks | 5/10 |
| Reliability marks | 2/10 |
| Comfort marks | 7/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 3/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 3/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 19600 miles |
| Most recent distance | 42000 miles |
| Date of Entry | 20th August, 2003 |