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- Martin
So, are the Korean giants Hyundai / KIA on the verge of gaining universal recognition for cars that are not only modern, well made and reliable but now also broadly and genuinely appealing? Judging by KIA's next generation Sportage - due to be launched at Geneva - I'd give a "hell yeah".
Whilst no official information has been released, nor pictures of the interior, what can be seen bodes well for the Korean maker. This is a dynamic looking, modern and attractive design take on the compact SUV theme. The new Sportage embodies KIA's new brand image & design language and it does so in fairly distinct fashion; the frontal DRG, although Honda-esque in places, does a good job in identifying the carmaker.
The Sportage's lines are attractive and rather sleek for an SUV - the faired in roof rails contribute to this impression. The overall stance is squat and four-square with good proportions for such a cab-forward design. The rear 3/4 is a bit generic - Mitsubishi cues come to mind - but there is a hint of Audi-ness in the overall execution, which, is a good thing.
Some detailing has led to dimished practicality; the fat C-pillar and narrow tailgate window will no doubt hamper rearward visibility.
Clearly, KIA's new found identity, competitive pricing and gaining consumer confidence will result in ever-increasing sales for this not-so-long-ago ridiculed Korean manufacturer.
Whilst no official information has been released, nor pictures of the interior, what can be seen bodes well for the Korean maker. This is a dynamic looking, modern and attractive design take on the compact SUV theme. The new Sportage embodies KIA's new brand image & design language and it does so in fairly distinct fashion; the frontal DRG, although Honda-esque in places, does a good job in identifying the carmaker.
The Sportage's lines are attractive and rather sleek for an SUV - the faired in roof rails contribute to this impression. The overall stance is squat and four-square with good proportions for such a cab-forward design. The rear 3/4 is a bit generic - Mitsubishi cues come to mind - but there is a hint of Audi-ness in the overall execution, which, is a good thing.
Some detailing has led to dimished practicality; the fat C-pillar and narrow tailgate window will no doubt hamper rearward visibility.
Clearly, KIA's new found identity, competitive pricing and gaining consumer confidence will result in ever-increasing sales for this not-so-long-ago ridiculed Korean manufacturer.
