Kia Sportage KX-4

Instead of the 134hp unit available on other Sportage models, the KX-4 uses an 181hp version of Kia’s 2.0-litre CRDi turbo diesel engine mated to a choice of six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmissions and standard all-wheel drive.

The 2.0-litre CRDi ‘R’ powerplant, which is unique to the KX-4, produces 383Nm (282lb/ft) of torque from 1,800rpm to 2,500rpm in manual guise and 392Nm (289 /b/ft) on the automatic model.

Kia says a revised variable geometry turbocharger, higher-pressure piezo injectors and software mapping are responsible for the 47hp and 63Nm/72Nm increase over the 134hp engine that the new version sits alongside.

The South Korean automaker quotes a 0-60mph (96km/h) dash in 9.4 seconds and, when fitted with the six-speed manual gearbox, top speed is 120mph (193km/h), CO2 emissions are 158g/km and 46.3mpg UK is achieved on the official combined cycle.

With the six-speed automatic, the Sportage KX-4 has a top speed of 121mph (195km/h) while CO2 emissions are 189g/km and the official combined cycle figure is 39.2mpg UK.

The range-topping Sportage builds on the specification of the KX-3 Sat Nav adding a Parallel Parking Assist System with sensors on all four corners, a keyless smart entry system and engine stop/start button and stainless steel door scuff plates.

Other standard amenities and features include a full leather upholstery, 18-inch alloys, tinted windows, 7-inch touchscreen navigation system with EU mapping, Xenon lights, automatic lights and wipers, panoramic sunroof, dual-zone climate control, heated front and rear seats, cruise control, iPod connectivity, colour reversing camera and a seven-speaker audio system.

Pricing for the KX-4 is set at £27,195 OTR for the manual model and £28,500 OTR for the automatic with both versions available for order now.