Published:
29 March 2012Stand-out styling cues include the 'tiger nose' front end, which was first seen on Kia's 2007 Kee concept car. It's arguably the most successful element of the Sportage's look, because the sharp headlight design translates well into a big SUV shape.
The back of the car is perhaps less successful in its appearance, although the narrow, raked-back rear screen is set very high so it doesn't hinder the practicality afforded by the deep, vertical tailgate, even if it does reduce the driver's rear visibility.
Another distinctive design element is the rearward cant of the C-pillar. This not only adds an appealing angularity to the window-line but also allows more light and visibility for rear passengers.
Crucially, the design erases memories of its outdated predecessor and gives the Sportage the bold looks that many buyers want in this class.
The scallops in the leading edge of the roof are the one detail that Kia's design chief, Peter Schreyer, had to insist made it on to the production Sportage. They maintain the profile of the grille, and follow suit by being higher at the edges than at the centre.
Kia has increased the Sportage's steel-to-glass ratio through the use of a high and rising waistline. The narrow side windows are intended to project a dynamic image. The Sportage also has a lower ground clearance than the old model, suggesting that it's a crossover rather than a conventional SUV. It makes it easier to get in and out of, too.
