AFTER a long, long wait it has finally arrived - the 4x4 that looks smart, performs well and, above all, doesn't involve re-mortgaging your home.
Kia has discovered a real niche in the market by producing the first all-rounder that has an enviable list of features but rolls in at less than £15,000.
Albeit, a few of the touches feel a bit cheap and tacky and the dashboard is a tad on the plastic side, but that aside the Sportage supplied for the test drive - the five-door 2.0 XE - impresses in every other quarter.
It oozes space with rear seats that split 60/40 at the press of a button and unlike many competitors the seats fold without the hassle of removing headrests.
Elsewhere, there is an abundance of storage compartments along with cup holders and a spring-loaded sunglasses holder.
Although from the outside the Sportage does not look the biggest of off-roaders, it is deceptively roomy inside with ample space for five adults and all the luggage they could possibly want to carry.
Fine touches include stylish 16-inch alloy wheels, well appointed dials and controls and a good sound system.
Safety and security are other factors Kia has considered carefully and the Sportage comes with an Anti-lock Braking System with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution, numerous airbags offering protection for all passengers, an electronic engine immobiliser, alarm plus remote control central locking.
One of the great pleasures in driving the Sportage is its handling.
Many larger off-roaders can only be described as cumbersome and hard work, but the Sportage proves easy to manoeuvre both in and around town and on the open road, and with its high seating position the driver has excellent visibility which even makes parking a doddle!
FAST FACTS
Kia Sportage 2.0 XE 5dr
Price: £14,495
Mechanical: 140bhp, 1,975cc, 4cyl petrol engine driving all four wheels via 5spd manual gearbox
Max speed: 108mph
0-62mph: 11.3 secs
Combined mpg: 34.4
Insurance group: 10
CO2 emissions: 194g/km
BiK rating: 25%
Warranty: 3yrs/ unlimited mileage; 3yrs paint; 6yrs anti-rust