Rising from the Ashes: The Kia Sportage GT-Line Plus Shines
By Prashirwin Naidu
Some may remember the first-generation 1993 Kia Sportage, a vehicle often criticized for its lackluster design and poor safety ratings. Fast forward to the fifth generation, and the Kia Sportage has evolved into a refined, impressive vehicle. The constant improvements have positioned the Sportage GT-Line Plus as a premium SUV option. For more reviews on Kia models, visit KIA Reviews on AutoAdvisor.
Eye-Catching Design and Dimensions
After spending time with the range-topping 1.6 T-GDi GT-Line Plus variant, it’s clear that this model is a true standout in the premium SUV segment. The Sportage GT-Line Plus boasts a futuristic design, featuring LED headlights, an unfamiliar but bold grille, and sporty 19-inch wheels. The distinctive rear taillights with the Kia badge give it an athletically inclined appearance, making it far more handsome than its predecessor.
In terms of dimensions, the Kia Sportage GT-Line Plus is roomier than before, with a wheelbase of 2,680mm, a width of 1,865mm, a length of 4,515mm, and a height of 1,650mm. These dimensions provide generous legroom, headroom, and a luggage capacity of 591 litres, which expands to 1,780 litres when the second row is folded down.
Luxurious Interior with Modern Features
The GT-Line Plus offers a premium cabin filled with modern amenities. The suede cloth and leatherette upholstery is both heated and ventilated for front occupants, and the driver’s seat includes a memory function. The cabin is stylish with black finishes and features a sleek rotary gear-shift dial, adding to its modern flair. A glass panoramic sunroof further enhances the cabin's appeal, retracting smoothly for a premium driving experience.
There's also a touch-sensitive panel that toggles between radio shortcuts and climate controls. While it took some time to figure out, some might prefer traditional physical buttons. The 12.3-inch infotainment system pairs nicely with the digital instrument cluster, creating a seamless, wide-screen user experience.
The system is Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatible, and two USB ports are available upfront, with USB-C ports tucked into the front seatbacks for rear passengers.
Safety and Driver Assistance Features
The Kia Sportage GT-Line Plus is equipped with advanced safety features and driver assistance systems. Standard features include:
Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS)
Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD)
Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
Hill-Start Assist Control (HAC)
Downhill Brake Control (DBC)
Trailer Stability Assist (TSA)
In addition to these, there are six airbags (driver, front passenger, side, and curtain airbags) and ISOFIX child seat anchors. The Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) technology includes front parking assist sensors, reverse camera, blind-spot warning, electronic tailgate, and Smart Cruise Control.
Performance and Driving Experience
The Kia Sportage GT-Line Plus is powered by a 1.6-litre in-line turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine, producing 132 kW and 265 Nm of torque. The power is sent to the front wheels via a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT), which provides smooth and responsive gear shifts. The light steering and well-insulated cabin contribute to a refined and comfortable driving experience.
The MacPherson strut suspension at the front and four-link setup at the rear deliver a smooth and stable ride, efficiently absorbing bumps and rough roads. Although the fuel consumption figure of 7.9L/100km is slightly higher than its diesel counterpart, the driving quality remains impressive.
Pricing and Warranty
The Kia Sportage GT-Line Plus is priced at R741,995, which may seem hefty, but it offers an enticing package of technology, refinement, and safety features. All Kia Sportage models come with Kia’s Unlimited Kilometre/5-year warranty, including Roadside Assistance. Customers also benefit from a pre-paid 6-year/90,000 km service plan.
Kia Sportage Pricing:
Kia Sportage 1.6 CRDi LX: R637,995
Kia Sportage 1.6 CRDi EX: R691,995
Kia Sportage 1.6 T-GDi GT-Line: R713,995
Kia Sportage 1.6 T-GDi GT-Line Plus: R741,995
Kia Sportage 1.6 CRDi GT-Line Plus: R765,995
Kia Sportage 1.6 T-GDi GT-Line S: R798,995
FAQ
Q: What does the Kia Sportage GT-Line Plus cost in South Africa?
The Kia Sportage 1.6 T-GDi GT-Line Plus is priced at around R699,995 in South Africa, positioning it as a premium SUV option that competes with German rivals at a more affordable price point.
Q: Is the Kia Sportage GT-Line Plus worth buying?
Absolutely, the Sportage GT-Line Plus offers exceptional value with its 132kW turbo engine, premium interior features like heated and ventilated seats, panoramic sunroof, and generous 591-litre boot space, making it a solid choice for families wanting luxury without the German price tag.
Q: How powerful is the Kia Sportage GT-Line Plus engine?
The 1.6 T-GDi engine produces 132kW of power and 265Nm of torque, providing more than adequate performance for South African driving conditions while maintaining decent fuel efficiency for a premium SUV.
Q: What are the main competitors to the Kia Sportage GT-Line Plus?
The Sportage GT-Line Plus competes directly with the Mazda CX-5, Honda CR-V, and Toyota RAV4, while offering similar features to entry-level German SUVs like the BMW X1 and Audi Q3 at a significantly lower price.
Q: Does the Kia Sportage GT-Line Plus come with a warranty?
Yes, Kia offers their industry-leading 5-year/150,000km warranty plus a 7-year/200,000km engine warranty, giving you peace of mind that few other manufacturers can match in South Africa.
Should You Buy It?
Yes, you should definitely buy the Kia Sportage GT-Line Plus. At R699,995, it's the best premium SUV under R700,000 in South Africa, offering German-level luxury features, a punchy 132kW turbo engine, and that unbeatable Kia warranty. The combination of striking design, spacious 591-litre boot, heated and ventilated seats, and panoramic sunroof makes this Sportage a proper contender that's risen from its dodgy past to become a genuinely desirable family SUV. If you want premium without breaking the bank, this Korean stunner should be at the top of your shopping list.
