The Korean automaker Kia->ke41 has officially released details about the next generation Sportage->ke1332 SUV, the 2011 Kia Sportage.
Sharing the same platform with its compatriot, the Hyundai Tucson->ke3245, the 2011 Sportage looks to have the leg-up on the Tucson in terms of being a little bigger and wider, which should translate into having a roomier interior.
The design for the 2011 Sportage also seems to have benefitted from the supervision of Peter Schreyer, whose previous design work with Audi->ke14 has seemingly translated into some of the aesthetic design cues that can be noticed in the new Sportage, including sharper curves, and a completely revamped front end that previous Sportage models didn't come in.
Featuring a fresh, bold, athletic and sporty design; longer, lower and wider than the previous generation model, the new Sportage will offer more space for people and cargo, with improved ride quality thanks to the longer wheelbase; the new Sportage will go on sale later this year, with a choice of both diesel and gasoline engines following its debut in March at the Geneva Motor Show.
Updated 07/21/2010: Kia today announced prices for the 2011 Sportage that will go on sale in USA at a price of $18,295 for the base trim that includes: air conditioning, power windows, door locks and mirrors, SIRIUS® Satellite Radio capability with three months complimentary service, Bluetooth wireless technology and MP3 connectivity.
Press release after the jump.
2011 Kia Sportage
- Make: Array
- Model: 2011 Kia Sportage
- [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array
Press release
The all-new Kia Sportage will mark a dramatic shift in design direction for the brand’s popular compact SUV when it makes its world premiere at the Geneva Motor Show on 2 March, 2010.
Embodying Kia’s new-found visual dynamism the new Sportage is a fresh, bold, athletic and sporty design that successfully blends the key features of an SUV – the commanding driving position, heightened sense of security and raised ground clearance – and envelopes them in a sleek and urban-friendly design with global appeal.
Longer, lower and wider than the previous generation model, the new Sportage will offer more space for people and cargo, with an improved ride quality thanks to a longer wheelbase.
The all-new Sportage will be available at Kia dealerships across Europe later this year, with a range of highly competitive diesel and gasoline engines.
The world premiere of the new Sportage will take place during 2 March, 2010 on the Kia Stand (No 6441) in Hall 6 at the Geneva International Motor Show.