Peter Lyon
December 4, 2024
With the launch of the new fifth-generation Kia Sportage in Malaysia, Dinamikjaya Motors (DJM) has made a major entry into the local C-segment SUV market, with the vehicle to be locally assembled (CKD). With costs starting at RM149,518 on-the-road, the 2024 Kia Sportage comes in four different models.
For the record, it is somewhat smaller than the Honda CR-V, with dimensions of 4,660 mm in length and 2,755 mm in wheelbase.
With a front end reminiscent of a Star Wars’ Stormtrooper helmet, this new SUV boasts dramatic lines as Malaysia gets the pre-facelift model of the Sportage. Equally unique is the rear, which has a rear light layout that gives the appearance of a full-width tail light bar. Standard exterior equipment of the Sportage 2.0 variant includes 17-inch alloy wheels, Auto on/off LED headlights, LED and bulb taillights, rear fog light, and four rear parking sensors.
The Sportage’s interior is a reflection of its unique look, including a futuristic dashboard with fighter jet-style air conditioning vents. Even the centre console designs add to this futuristic vibe with the 1.6T models offering a more contemporary rotary gear knob, while the 2.0 models have a conventional shift lever.
The new Sportage gets two powertrain options
There are two powertrain options available—a 2.0-litre petrol engine with a six-speed automated gearbox that produces 154 horsepower and 192 Nm and a 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine pumping out 177 horsepower and 265 Nm. Both are mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox. This engine is available in the 1.6T High and 1.6T High AWD variants. The range-topping 1.6T AWD High version has all-wheel drive for improved traction, whereas the majority of Sportage models are front-wheel drive.
Safety-wise, the Sportage is equipped with six airbags as standard but the base 2.0 variant misses out on some ADAS features, which are available from the 2.0 High variant onwards such as high beam assist (HBA), blind sport collision avoidance assist (BCA), rear cross traffic alert (RCTA), adaptive cruise control (ACC), blind-spot view monitor (1.6T High and 1.6T High AWD variants only).
CARLIST THOUGHTS
With its new exterior and improved front end, this new Sportage is certainly a good looker and a highly competitive model coming up against rivals like the Honda CR-V. To recap, the 2024 Kia Sportage is available in four variants and is priced from RM149,518 on-the-road and without insurance. Prices are inclusive of a five-year manufacturer warranty, offering coverage for up to five years or 100,000 km, whichever comes first. Additionally, it comes with a five-year free scheduled maintenance package, covering up to five years or 100,000 km.
