Performance Data
* Acceleration (0-60 mph): NA
* Braking Distance (60-0 mph): NA
* Roadholding Index: NA
* Base Number of Cylinders: 4
* Base Engine Size: 2 liters
* Base Engine Type: Inline
* Horsepower: 130 hp @ 5500 rpm
* Torque: 127 ft-lbs. @ 4000 rpm
* Maximum Cargo Capacity: 55 cu.ft.
* Maximum Payload: 860 lbs.
* Maximum Towing Capacity: 2000 lbs.
Exterior Dimensions
* Length: 162.5 in.
* Width: 68.1 in.
* Height: 65 in.
* Weight: 3352 lbs.
* Wheelbase: 104.3 in.
* Turning Circle: 34.8 ft.
* Ground Clearance: 7.9 in.
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Designed from the ground up to be a real off-roader the Sportage has a tough ladder-frame, selectable four-wheel drive, and a Mazda-based 130 horsepower 2.0-litre, 16-valve engine. A standard five-speed manual or optional four-speed automatic.
Three trim levels and two body styles are available for 2001, in either 2WD or 4WD. Convertibles come with Base trim, while four-door hardtops can be equipped as Base, EX and new Limited models. Even the least expensive Sportage is well equipped, including a theft deterrent system, electric windows and door locks, electric mirrors, tilt steering wheel, six-speaker sound system, and alloy wheels on 4WD versions. EX adds air conditioning, a roof rack, cruise control, a CD player, dark tinted glass and fake wood on the interior.
New for 2001 is the Limited, with 140-watt audio system, remote keyless entry, special wheels and paint, chrome exterior accents, platinum-faced gauges and unique striping. Four-wheel ABS is a popular option on any Sportage.
Though leather is available, interior materials are not the Sportage's strong suit, with headliner, dash panel and seat fabric quality well below that of competitors such as the Honda CR-V, Mazda Tribute and Toyota RAV4. But none of those can boast of a knee airbag, such as the one found on the Kia.
Sportage looks rugged yet cute, perfect for the school run. On the tarmac the Sportage exudes confidence and is fun to drive. Lotus engineers worked wonders with the suspension, including a sophisticated double-wishbone arrangement up front, and the Sportage is stable and comfortable. Off road, the short, sloping hood provides excellent visibility for climbing or descending hills, and the suspension soaks up ruts and bumps without bottoming out thanks to 7.9 inches of ground clearance.
Seating positions are high and upright, visibility is outstanding, and the layout of the dashboard and controls makes the Sportage easy to manipulate. Rear-seat riders get minimal legroom, but get a clear view of the outside world.
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