Kia has updated the Sportage compact crossover for the 2014 model year, which gets a new grille, an updated 2.4L four-cylinder and a few other upgrades. The Sportage's updated isn't a big change, but the bigger news is the updated base 2.4L four-cylinder, which is now more powerful thanks to the addition of direct injection.
In the engine department, the crossover received a new 2.4-liter GDI four-cylinder unit. The direct-injected powerplant was already on offer, but now it offers an extra 6 HP and 9 lb-ft (12 Nm) of torque, delivering a total of 182 HP and 177 lb-ft (239 Nm). The unit works with a six-speed automatic and, in front-wheel drive configuration, returns an efficiency of 21 mpg city and 30 mpg highway.
In the interior the new Sportage R uses 4.2 inches color TFT LCD super vision cluster like in the latest Kia models (like in the K5), Flex Steer system with three Driving Modes (ECO, Normal and Sport). More details included are new alloy wheels design, an sporty package for the 2.0 T-GDi version (take a look to the blue Sportage pictures), front and rear heated seats (and also front ventilated seats), new sound system with 4,3 TFT LCD, UVO eServices, Tyre-pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), heated steering wheel, rear air vents, Smart Parking Assist System (SPAS).
Speaking of standard features, the 2014 Sportage also gets a new tilt and telescopic steering column, rear ventilation and reclining outboard seats, on all trim levels. The mid-rage EX models also come with heated front seats, Infinity Premium Audio, auto-dimming mirror with Homelink and heated outside mirrors. Meanwhile, an available Premium package adds ventilated front seats, navigation with SiriusXM TrafficTM, leather-trimmed seats, panoramic sunroof, smart key with push button start, and power-folding outside mirrors.
