Kia Sportage 2011 launched in Oman

It looks like Oman is the first country in the GCC to receive the all-new 2011 Kia Sportage. Apparently launched by the middle of June, the new Sportage offers similar equipment packages to the Hyundai Tucson, on which it is based.

Longer by 90 mm, wider by 15 mm and lower by 60 mm than the previous model, the third-generation Kia Sportage is also 91 kilos lighter than before.

The five-seater compact crossover SUV comes with a 164 hp 2.0-litre and a 175 hp 2.4-litre engine, both with a 6-speed paddle-shiftable automatic transmission and available all-wheel-drive. Also, the auto gearbox has a feature so that whenever the car is stopped for more than a few seconds, a ‘Neutral Control’ function automatically shifts the transmission from ‘D’ to ‘N’, improving fuel economy in city driving.

Fitted as standard are ABS brakes, power windows, electric mirrors, rear parking sensors and, as usual, a driver’s airbag. Optional features include a rear-view camera with LCD display integrated into the interior mirror, a choice up to 10 exterior colours and a black interior, full-length panoramic glass sunroof, cruise control, foglamps, folding mirrors, steering audio controls and more.

Cargo capacity is among the best in class and ranges from 564 litres with the rear seats occupied to 1353 litres with the rear seats folded down.

Unveiled in Europe this February, the 2011 Kia Sportage is already on display at locations around Dubai, though it is seemingly not on sale yet. Oman is always first with Kia products, having received the Cerato maybe six months before the UAE.

Keep track of UAE pricing and GCC specs in the Kia Sportage buyer guide.