The Kia Sportage looks set to continue as the manufacturer’s best-selling model, with 1,500 orders placed in its first weekend on sale. Available from February 5, the number of orders taken over three days represents a record for Kia.
Paul Philpott, UK President and Chief Executive of Kia Motors said: “The previous version enjoyed its best-ever year in 2015 – its run-out year – and from this initial surge of interest I am confident the all-new Sportage is going to get off to a flying start and hopefully put last year’s sales performance in the shade.”
Kia reports the First Edition and KX-2 models as being the most popular, showing there’s a split between those customers waiting for the most opulent (and expensive at £31,645) Sportage ever sold, and the more modest ‘2’ trim level, but with four-wheel drive fitted, as denoted by ‘KX’.
Kia Niro hybrid crossover
Kia is also hoping to grow its market share as it introduces its first hybrid model, the Kia Niro crossover. Preview pictures of the Niro suggest it has a sporty look, thanks to a coupe-like roofline and despite its raised ground clearance. Kia has also said its new hybrid powertrain is expected to emit below 90g/km of CO2 emissions, making it free to tax in the UK. The Niro will be unveiled later this week at the 2016 Chicago Auto Show.
In his review of the latest Kia Sportage, Car Keys Managing Editor said: “Kia has become known for its phenomenal rate of evolution, and there’s no clearer example of this than the Sportage. Sure, the fourth-generation might not appear to make quite the giant leap of its predecessor, but dig deeper and it’s a significantly more advanced product.”