Refreshed Kia Sportage 2.0D GT-Line displayed at 2018 KLIMS

KUALA LUMPUR: The ongoing 2018 Kuala Lumpur International Motor Show stands witness to the official launch and revelation of several top-notch auto brands. The refreshed Kia Sportage in its 2.0D GT-Line variant is on display at this grand automotive industry event organized by the Malaysian Automotive Association (MAA). As far as the availability is concerned, it has already hit the dealerships across the country.

The Kia Sportage GT-Line model derives its power from a 2.0-litre R CRDi four-cylinder engine that offers a top speed of 185 PS at 4,000 rpm and delivers a peak torque reading of 400 Nm from around 1,750 - 2,750 rpm. The powertrain is hooked to an eight-speed automatic ditching the former six-speed unit.

The facelifted Sportage version receives some restyling elements. The front fascia now features new bumper and has a uniquely fashioned grille. The LED headlamps too have been redesigned and are coupled with four-point LED DRLs. Front LED fog lights are moulded into small cubes. The lower apron bears with new chrome trim pieces extended from the fog light enclosures and continuing to the number plate holder. The redesigned rear bumper now houses rear reflectors and reverse lights mounted on each. The exhaust system flaunts chrome touch-ups. It rides on 19-inch alloy wheels.

On the inside, it exclusively has double-toned leather upholstery, 4.2-inch multi-info instrument digital display, and Qi wireless phone charger that is not found in the Kia Sportage 2.0 EX variant. Standard interior features include a seven-inch touchscreen infotainment system, dual-zone climate control system with rear outlets, alloy pedals, keyless entry and start, eight-way power seats, to name a few.

Attention is focused on the safety aspects as well by incorporating features like six airbags, vehicle stability management, blind-spot collision warning system, PDW-F, rear Cross-traffic collision warning system, etc.

Both the models, the 2.0D GT-Line and the 2.0 EX, are available on sale throughout the country with a price tag of RM149,888 and RM126,888, respectively, on-the-road minus insurance.