Used Kia Sportage IV: A Mixed Bag According to TÜV Inspections
Kia Sportage leaves mediocre impression during TÜV inspection
Hop on the compact SUV bandwagon, Germany! The Kia Sportage has been a popular option since 1994, now in its fifth generation. Although the fourth generation is now at a prime age for used car buyers, TÜV's three main evaluations paint a mixed picture.
Quality issues
The Sportage's steering and steering joints have received negative marks from TÜV starting from the second evaluation. The braking and lighting systems also leave much to be desired. Furthermore, oil loss is a concern, criticized by inspectors. However, the Sportage's axle springs and suspensions have no issues, and its brake components, exhaust system, and design are unremarkable.
Size and Design
Measuring at 4.48 meters, the Sportage comfortably settles in the heart of the compact SUV class, alongside the VW Tiguan, Nissan Qashqai, and Hyundai Tucson. Its exterior boasts a robust design, with many edges and grooves, while its interior is roomy. A driver-friendly cockpit and a modest 1.7-meter turning radius make for easy city driving.
The trunk volume ranges between 495 and 1,500 liters, depending on the recline position of the rear seat backs. The 2018 facelift brought refreshed front-end styling, with LED headlights as an option.
Engines and Drive
Kia Sportage IV offered a variety of engines, both diesel and petrol, along with front and all-wheel drive variants. The entry-level self-igniter was a 1.7-liter engine with 115 PS, followed by a 141 PS 1.7-liter a year later. A 136 PS 2.0-liter diesel was also available. After the facelift, Kia removed the self-igniters and introduced a 132 PS 1.6-liter mild-hybrid in the 115 PS and 136 PS variants. All-wheel drive was exclusively available with the 136 PS variants and the top model.
Petrol engines available included a 132 PS 1.6-liter and a 177 PS 1.6-liter turbo, which also came with all-wheel drive as an option. The 2.0-liter diesel could be paired with either a six- or eight-speed automatic transmission, while the others would normally come with a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox for an additional charge.
Equipment and Safety
The base model "Attract" came with air conditioning, radio, 16-inch light alloy wheels, electric windows, and exterior mirrors. Higher trims included the "Edition 7", "Vision", "Spirit", and "GT-Line", each offering increasing features such as front and rear seat heating, hands-free system, navigation, multifunction steering wheel, cruise control, and rearview camera. Various packages were available, focusing on technology, equipment, and safety aspects.
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Caveats for Used Sportage IV Buyers
A savvy used car shopper should be mindful of potential pitfalls common in the Sportage IV. These include:
Suspension Wear and Noise - Frequently, worn suspension components cause clunking or knocking noises. This can stem from bent anti-roll bar links, leaking shock absorbers, or deteriorated bushings and control arms. While these issues don't always pose immediate safety hazards, they can drastically decrease ride comfort and result in costly repairs.
Clutch and Gearbox Issues - Especially in urban areas, manual transmission models may exhibit early clutch wear, sluggish gear shifting, and difficulty selecting gears. Dual-clutch transmission (DCT) and continuously variable transmission (CVT) variants may also suffer from gearbox judder due to clutch pack problems or dual-mass flywheel failures.
Electrical Problems - Pre-2018 Sportage IV models may experience occasional electrical glitches such as frozen infotainment screens, malfunctioning rear parking sensors, and unexplained battery drain. The issues can usually be resolved with software updates or minor repairs but cause inconvenience if out of warranty.
Air Conditioning Faults - After several years of use, climate control systems often develop problems, with complaints ranging from poor airflow to compressor and condenser failures. Repair costs may be steep when out of warranty.
Engine and Powertrain Concerns - Some Sportage IV models exhibit engine trouble, such as a faint metallic rattle progressing to seizure, delayed throttle response, and sudden engine failure, particularly after around 50,000 miles on certain year's models, like the 2015 model. These engine failures can lead to costly breakdowns and stranded vehicles.
Safety-Related Recalls - Earlier Sportage models (2008–2009) were recalled due to a short circuit in the anti-lock brake system (ABS) control module, posing a fire risk in the engine compartment. This recall history should be thoroughly checked before making a purchase.
Navigating the used car market, consider the compact Kia models, particularly the Sportage IV. While it offers a robust design and a spacious interior, be cautious of the mixed mechanical evaluations from TÜV, particularly the concerns about suspension wear, clutch and gearbox issues, electrical problems, air conditioning faults, and engine concerns.
