When you drive two models that are said to be ‘identical under the metal’, you are naturally on the lookout for tiny differences. This was the case when driving the Kia Sportage, which shares its underpinnings with the Hyundai ix35. Given, the two crossovers look completely different, with distinctive ‘on-brand’ front-end designs. In the champagne-like ‘Sirius Silver’ paint job we had however, I think the Sportage has definitely got the edge in the style department.
After hearing that we were testing an automatic version of the 2.0-litre diesel, I was a little sceptical as some of Kia’s engines are noticeably in need of an update and automatic boxes are very easy to get wrong. I was however, pleasantly surprised, as the 2.0-litre 181bhp diesel packs a decent punch and is good for a zero to 60mph sprint time of just 9.4 seconds. The six-speed automatic gearbox is also very slick, even when you throw it a curveball and slam your foot down on the accelerator at the traffic lights.
Both the Sportage and ix35 are virtually identical when it comes to comfort and practicality. However, this also means that with both cars you don’t get the same engagement levels as you do in the likes of the Ford Kuga. The steering also lacks feedback and weighting.
You do, however, get a very comfortable suspension set-up, making it a great motorway cruiser. The SUV ride height of the Sportage is also a great quality, allowing you to tower over the majority of traffic. A passer-by and former owner of a Sportage actually commented on how they didn’t like the ride height as it wasn’t “anything like an SUV”, but I completely disagree.
The Sportage we test drove had four-wheel drive and it proved capable when it comes to dirt tracks, with a Lock Mode that can evenly distribute power to all four wheels. This ultimately stops you wheel-spinning. The hill descent feature is also nice and reassuring. I would think twice before going too crazy when it comes to choosing off-road terrain though.
Interior design is also a big divider between the Sportage and ix35. In my opinion, the Sportage reigns supreme in this category, as its design seems more modern and clean-cut – but maybe that’s just me.
Our KX-4 model also came with some great features like a seven-inch touch-screen system with satellite navigation, a reversing camera and a parallel park assist system. The parallel park assist tool steers the car for you when backing into a parking space and is incredibly accurate and easy to use. The novelty may wear off after a few goes, but nevertheless, if you’re not too confident in your own parking abilities, this system can competently help you out.
Thankfully, the Sportage is actually practical, unlike some crossover SUV’s that seem to ignore things like boot space. It is, however, slightly smaller than the boot in the ix35, so Hyundai wins in this department.
Price comparison is where it gets really interesting. The Sportage currently starts from around £17,500, which is more expensive than the ix35. It is however cheaper than the Nissan Qashqai (had to mention it at least once) and considerably cheaper than the £21,000 or so you will have to fork-out for the Ford Kuga.
Out of the Sportage and ix35, the Kia is the best all-rounder in my opinion, both in terms of interior and exterior style and finish. Plus, the added two year warranty over Hyundai’s is also worth some brownie points.
