Peoria new and used Kia dealers add 2011 Kia Sportage to the mix

July is the month in which we get our lawn chairs

, drive to an open space, and sit back and watch dazzling public displays. Yes, July was the month the Kia Sportage arrived at dealers. I figured I would be battling lots of other onlookers for a prime spot as the updated version of Kia's SUV rolled off the truck, but oddly I was the only one there. Oh well, more Doritos and Pepsi for me.

Okay, I didn't do that. But I wanted to. I've been looking forward to getting a good look at this model, so it wasn't long after they first arrived at Peoria Kia dealers that I arrived to take one for a spin. The reason is simple, Hyundai and Kia are doing everything right recently, and I ready to check out anything that's new.

Already a lover of the 2011 Hyundai Tucson, I knew I would at least like the newest Sportage. Perhaps the biggest initial draw for a lot of consumers is the striking price point - $18,295. This is a lot of vehicle for that price. Standard on the Sportage are: AC; power windows, locks, and mirrors; SIRIUS Satellite Radio capability with three free months; MP3 connectivity; and Bluetooth technology.

Step up to the top trim level and get all of the luxury, like privacy glass, 18-inch alloy wheels, and leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob.

The Sportage is incredibly affordable, but it actually has gone up in price since the previous version thanks to a very serious engine upgrade to a 176-hp, 2.4-liter six-speed from the previous 140-hp, 2.0-liter five-speed.

I had driven the previous Sportage, and while that vehicle was a very good solution to buying an SUV on a budget, the 2011 Sportage is a total steal. The performance and handling are vastly improved, and the level of technology and luxury found on this model easily rivals vehicles like the Hyundai Tucson and comparable models from Toyota and Ford.

What I found most pleasant was the sturdy feel the Sportage exhibited. Over bumps the vehicle displayed excellent control and comfort. The inside the plastic is rigid as well, a departure from rattle-prone thinner plastics I've seen on Kia models in years past.

Overall, the Sportage has to be on your short list for midsize SUV shopping. Comparable to the Hyundai Tucson and Ford Escape, it offers all of the driving ability and comfort at a lesser price.

Peoria new and used Kia dealers add 2011 Kia Sportage to the mix

By: Fred Lightner

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