1999 Kia Sportage review from North America
"An economical family vehicle"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
The Engine light has come on twice since I bought it in October 2003. The first time it was simply I hadn't screwed the gas cap on three clicks.
I had the dealership replace the automatic hubs with manual hubs after the stock automatic one's began leaking. Although this was not under warranty at the time, the dealership fixed it and did not charge me a deductible.
General comments?
I have really enjoyed our "Rollerskate", as the family calls it. It has get up and go when needed, but it mostly putts along. Anyone expecting the Sportage to hit 5000 RPM"s is asking for trouble. The Sportage's optimal RPM's is around 3500.
I drive a lot of highway miles at 65-75 miles per hour and it handles this great. The money that I paid for it made every mile I have put on it well worth the investment.
I would recommend the Sportage and plan to purchase the new one when it finally comes out. (Projected to be this fall.) The Kia Autoserve Dealerships in New Hampshire have been excellent and stand behind their products.
Recommended reviews
| 1999 - Sportage 2dr EX 2.0 liter The worst piece of automotive manufacturing anyone can find |
|
| 1998 - Sportage Extended warranty A poorly-built car, even for the low price tag |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Year of manufacture | 1999 |
| First year of ownership | 2003 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2004 |
| Engine and transmission | 4 cylinder Manual |
| Performance marks | 7 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 7 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 7 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 9 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 7 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 68000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 95000 miles |
| Previous car | Chevrolet Cavalier |
| Date of Entry | 5th May, 2004 |