Kia Sportage

The Kia Sportage is a compact crossover SUV built by the Korean automaker Kia Motors since 1995. Originally, it was a mini SUV, but the second generation Sportage has grown in size to become a compact crossover SUV.

First generation (1995-2003)

The first generation Sportage was a mini SUV developed with a Lotus engineering base platform. It shares many mechanical components such as the engine, transmissions (early), and differentials with the Mazda line of vehicles. This was during the alliance of Ford-Mazda-Kia for technology and product sharing in the early to mid 1990's.

Sportage was sold in either a four-door or a two-door soft-top convertible. The first-generation Sportage was discontinued in North America for 2002 and worldwide for 2003 and put on hiatus until a second generation model was ready. The four-door model measures just a quarter of one inch longer and the same width as the Geo Tracker, but boasts 130hp (97kW) and optional four wheel drive. The 1998 Kia Sportage was the world's first production vehicle to be equipped with a knee airbag. This first generation model (1995-2002) sold in low numbers even domestically in South Korea, however, and post-Hyundai takeover models (1997-2002) were recalled twice for rear wheels dismounting while driving.