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Kia makes a style statement with the 2017 Sportage (pictures)

Kia's fourth-generation Sportage sets itself apart from the compact crossover crowd with styling, and a potent 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine option.

Jon Wong
Jon Wong was a reviews editor for CNET Cars. He test drove and wrote about new cars and oversaw coverage of automotive accessories and garage gear. In his spare time, he enjoys track days, caring for his fleet of old Japanese cars and searching for the next one to add to his garage.
Jon Wong
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The fourth-generation Kia Sportage is on sale now featuring a stiffer structure, new suspension and standout exterior design.

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The new Sportage's body-in-white is built from 51 percent advanced high strength steel compared to the outgoing model's 18 percent.

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The 2017 Sportage will be available in LX, EX and SX trim levels.

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LED taillights are exclusive to the Sportage SX model.

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Also helping to increase rigidity and lower NVH is the greater use of structural adhesives.

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Forward collision warning and autonomous emergency braking are available that can detect a potential collision with another vehicle or pedestrian and help bring the Sportage to a stop.

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Base models of the 2017 Sportage are powered by a 2.4-liter four-cylinder producing 181 horsepower and 175 pound-feet of torque.

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An improved steering system features a steering box that's been mounted further forward for smoother steering inputs.

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SX Turbo models of the Sportage get firmer shocks yielding sharper handling abilities.

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Rear cross-traffic alert is available as an option to warn the driver if a car is going to pass behind the Sportage while in reverse.

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The tiger-nose grille on the new 2017 Sportage.

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Depending on trim level, the Sportage rides on 17-, 18- or 19-inch aluminum wheels.

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A Magna all-wheel-drive system is available on 2017 Sportage.

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All-wheel-drive Sportage models equipped with forward collision warning and autonomous emergency braking have the sensors integrated into the front grille, which doesn't look great.

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Xenon headlights are standard on Sportage SX models.

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The "ice cube" LED fog lights are another exclusive SX feature.

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All-wheel-drive is a $1,500 option.

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The 19-inch wheels on the 2017 Kia Sportage SX.

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Side exterior mirrors on the Sportage SX with integrated turn signal indicators.

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A rear spoiler is standard on all 2017 Sportage models.

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LED taillights on the Sportage SX.

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The Sportage is Kia's longest running nameplate in the US.

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The SX model includes a higher output engine, specific suspension tuning and exclusive exterior styling touches.

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A dual-exhaust system is standard on the Sportage SX.

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The 2.0-liter turbocharged engine on the Sportage SX produces 237 horsepower on models equipped with all-wheel-drive.

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The cabin of the Sportage SX features standard leather seats that are heated and cooled.

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The multi-function flat-bottom steering wheel in the Sportage SX.

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An 8.0-inch touchscreen is standard on the SX model featuring navigation, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

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A smaller 7.0-inch touchscreen is available on LX and standard EX models that also offer Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capabilities.

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Navigation is a standard feature on the Sportage SX.

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The UVO eServices telematics screen on the Sportage SX.

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The center stack in the new Sportage consists of numerous hard buttons that are clearly marked.

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Power outlets, an auxiliary input and USB port are easily accessible in the Sportage.

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Both Sportage engine options come connected to a six-speed automatic transmission.

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A push-button starter system comes standard on EX and SX models.

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Steering-wheel-mounted controls for of the Sportage's cruise control system.

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Audio and Bluetooth steering wheel-mounted controls.

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Steering wheel paddle shifters are another SX model exclusive feature.

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The SX's flat-bottom steering wheel.

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The main gauge cluster inside of the 2017 Sportage.

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Various controls inside of the 2017 Sportage SX for lane departure warning and blind spot detection.

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Gloss black trim is featured throughout the Sportage's interior.

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A 320-watt Harman Kardon sound system is optional on EX models, but standard on the SX.

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Metal side scuff plates in the Sportage SX.

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Power adjustable 10-way front seats are standard on EX and SX versions of the Sportage.

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The rear seats in the 2017 Sportage are roomier than the outgoing model's.

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Rear passengers can charge their smart devices using the rear power outlets.

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A dual-level cargo floor offers a little more space to transport taller items.

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With the rear seats folded, the 2017 Sportage features 60.1 cubic feet of cargo space.

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