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Acceleration
"Four-cyl models fine for light-duty commuting, but lack power for confident
highway merging and passing. We recommend a V6 version; they're no fireballs,
but about as peppy as 4-cyl Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4. Automatic transmission
responsive enough with either engine, though not even the V6 has abundant passing
punch. No opportunity to test with manual transmission. Towing capacity is 1500
lb with 4-cyl, 2000 lb with V6."
Value
"Surprisingly refined, reasonably roomy, and remarkably priced, Sportage is a
strong Recommended pick. V6 versions are our choice for about the same money
as rival 4-cyl models. An impressive list of standard equipment and a long warranty
add to its appeal. "
Ride
"Among best-riding compact SUVs. Composed around town, with little unwanted bounding
or pitching, though some testers feel Sportage slightly less absorbent over sharp
bumps than sibling Tuscon. "
Economy
Test AWD EX's 19.4-mpg average very similar to that of test 4-cyl CR-V and V6 Ford Escape. No opportunity to measure with 4-cyl. Note that V6 has 17.2-gal fuel tank vs. 15.3 for 4-cyl.
Noise
"Good isolation from road, wind. Four-cyl engine coarse, buzzy. V6 quiet at cruise,
but strains loudly in fast acceleration."
Comfort - Front
"Adequate leg room, generous head room. Both leather and cloth seats comfortable,
with good side-bolster support. Standard tilt steering wheel helps tailor a good
driving position. Over-the-shoulder visibility partially blocked by thick rear
pillars. "
Comfort - Rear
Available sunroof's housing cuts into head room for taller riders. Leg room good; becomes tight only for taller riders with front seats more than halfway back. Slim door bottoms mildly impede entry/exit.
Controls
"Gauges clearly marked, easy to see. All controls grouped conveniently in easy-to-reach
center dashboard stack. Dials have rubber grips for better feel. Sportage's interior
materials a cut above CR-V and slightly upscale of Tucson."
Cargo Room
"Room behind rear seats for groceries, but not large objects. Rear seats fold
easily in single motion to form flat load floor. Separate-opening tailgate window
adds convenience. Cabin has eight cupholders, including one in each door, and
adequate small-item storage."
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