For 2015, the Kia Sportage continues to offer an impressive feature set, robust performance and modern styling. Recently recognized for the second consecutive year as the top-ranked small CUV in J.D. Power’s Initial Quality Study (in a tie), the Sportage carries over from a year of updates, including notable exterior revisions and a variety of comfort and convenience enhancements. The Sportage is offered in three trim levels– LX, EX and SX– and offers two powertrains: a 2.4L GDI I4 (LX and EX) and a 2.0L Turbo GDI (SX).
Starting with the LX trim, the 2015 Sportage offers numerous standard features, including 17-inch alloy wheels matched with 225/60R17 low-rolling-resistance silica tires, body-color door handles, Bluetooth®1 Wireless Technology Hands-Free Connectivity, solar glass, privacy glass, keyless entry with folding key and a six-speed electronically controlled Sportmatic™ automatic transmission. The popularly equipped EX trim offers stylish 18-inch alloy wheels with 235/55R18 tires, LED turn signals on the outside mirrors, high-performance dampers, roof rails, a rear spoiler, fog lamps and chrome body trim and door handles. The top-of-the-line Sportage SX adds a powerful 2.0-liter turbocharged GDI engine producing 260-horsepower, unique 18-inch alloy wheels, dual exhaust, sculpted side sill moldings, LED accent lighting along the headlamps for a sportier, more upscale appearance and a unique SX grille. For added driver comfort, a tilt and telescopic steering column is standard across all trims.
For enhanced passenger comfort, all trims feature standard rear vents and reclining outboard seats as well as an optional ventilated seat for the front passenger. Drivers of the EX trim are treated to the perks of standard heated front seats, Infinity®2 Premium Audio, and heated outside mirrors. The impressive Premium Package adds navigation with SiriusXM Traffic3, leather-trimmed seats, panoramic sunroof, smart key with push-button start, and power-folding outside mirrors.
In terms of technology features, consumers will find that all trims of the 2015 Sportage offer Apple®4 USB compatibility. Standard on the EX and SX models and available as a package on LX, the UVO5 system utilizes the advanced eServices telematics suite enabled by an exclusive, free smartphone app6 that provides drivers with an innovative in-vehicle connectivity experience including diagnostics capabilities7 and added convenience features. UVO is short for “Your Voice” and promotes driver convenience through Advanced Voice Recognition technology, which allows consumers to control music and mobile phone operations while keeping their hands on the steering wheel and their eyes on the road. When equipped with UVO eServices, the 2015 Sportage also features a Rear Camera Display8 and auto headlamp system.