Kia Sportage TEC will get the 2.0CRDi engine
Not known for churning out limited edition models, Kia has updated the Sportage for 2015 and is confident that a dollop of exclusivity and better value for money will push sales of an already popular nameplate. Ostensibly that means taking features from the higher grade models and letting them spill over. For free!
The Kia Sportage has aged well. Launched in 1993, updated in 2005 and again in 2010, it has managed to stay ahead of the pack, needing only minor tweaks along the way. This is largely thanks to Peter Schreyer’s involvement whose keen eye and global experience has uplifted the brand into premium territory. Numerous design accolades have reinforced its position as one of the country’s most loved and easy-going SUVs.
Following on from a small nip and tuck in 2014 and the pre-accessorised Sportage Explore in December 2014, comes a further two TEC models. The new Kia Sportage TEC models will be powered by the 2.0CRDi with 130kW and 392Nm and despite featuring the same automatic gearbox, the one derivative is front-wheel drive while the other turns all four wheels.
From the outside these TEC models can be distinguished by bespoke 18-inch alloys, privacy glass and LED treatment of the light clusters. A panoramic roof has been added as standard. Inside it is a case of money well spent with heated/ventilated seats while the 2WD model gains smart key, xenon lights and a higher quality TFT screen – the latter already included in the TEC AWD model.
Pricing: Kia Sportage TEC
Sportage 2.0 CRDi 2WD TEC: R427 995
Sportage 2.0 CRDi AWD TEC: R462 995.
