Kia Sportage review: what the car critics say

The best-selling car in the UK last month, the Kia Sportage has been trans­formed over the years from a dull budget SUV into a stylish, tech-laden, family-friendly car, The Sunday Times said. This fifth-generation version sees the addition of hybrids and plug-in powertrains, using Kia’s 1.6 T-GDi petrol engine. The new Sportage uses the same platform as the Hyundai Tucson, and there’s front and four-wheel-drive options.

Decent, unflashy, good value and with a seven-year or 100,000-mile warranty, the Sportage has five trim levels, but if you want a swanky metallic paint colour it will cost you an extra £650, The Daily Telegraph said. Inside it’s all pretty logical, but some parts are over-designed, such as the excessive steering-wheel buttons. There’s just enough room for adults in the back, and the boot is pretty big, at 587 litres.

The Sportage grips well through bends without too much body roll, said Auto Express. It’s not sporty, but this is a family SUV, and the engine cuts in smoothly from electric. The ride is a bit firmer than the Tucson, but the Kia is relaxed and comfortable when cruising. With 226bhp it can do 0-60mph in a decent 7.7 seconds, and top speed is 120mph. Fuel economy is good with an average of mid to high-40s mpg. Price: from £26,745.