J.D. Power: Kia Sportage Most Dependable Small SUV

The Kia Sportage has been chosen as the Most Dependable Small SUV by J.D. Power in a study that represents an in-depth look at overall dependability as rated by actual owners. The 2015 Kia Sportage is a compact crossover that offers carlike handling and SUV capability in one package.

For the 2015 Vehicle Dependability Study, JD Power surveyed more than 34,000 new vehicle owners, encompassing some 228 models from 32 nameplates. Questions were grouped into eight major categories and covered 177 potential problems. In its field of seven competitors, the Sportage achieved the best score. With five as the highest rating, the Sportage earned a five. This is especially significant given that its closest competitors, the Hyundai Tucson and the Jeep Patriot, each scored a three. The Sportage is no stranger to the JD Power awards, having won the Initial Quality Study award in both 2013 and 2014.

The Sportage is truly sporty, say reviewers such as AutoTrader and Edmunds, and its looks offer a glimpse into its fun-loving nature. The exterior may remind onlookers of a European hot hatch, suggests the Car Connection, but this is pure SUV down to its higher stance and slightly snubbed nose. As AutoTrader puts it, this SUV is big on visual impact.

Of course, an SUV must be more than a pretty face, adds AutoTrader, and the Sportage follows through on its commitment to sporty handling. Edmunds and the Car Connection agree that this SUV is fun to drive. A firm suspension ensures agility. Most will be satisfied with the high energy of the 185-horsepower engine, but the performance 260-horsepower turbo offers an even racier ride for driving enthusiasts. Kelley Blue Book labels the Sportage turbo as the class jock.

With a starting price around $22K, the Sportage offers three trim levels to serve consumers. The base edition features keyless entry, USB/iPod connectivity and Bluetooth. For driver comfort, the steering wheel has both tilt and telescopic adjustment capability. For passenger comfort, the back seat offers reclining seats. The EX edition adds keyless start and 18-inch wheels. The SX edition features the convenience and fun of a cooled glovebox. Other extras include navigation, leather upholstery, and power-heated/power-cooled seats.

UVO eServices can turn the Sportage into a mini-command center for infotainment. Bluetooth-based smartphone integration includes streaming audio. Voice commands work for phone calls and the audio system. Music sources include integrated Pandora radio and satellite radio. Vehicle diagnostics are also a part of this system, which can send maintenance reminders to ensure a long life for the SUV.

Adding to its Most Dependable status, the Kia Sportage offers a ten year/100,000 mile powertrain warranty and a five year/60,000 mile limited warranty. It also comes with coverage for five years of roadside assistance. The 2015 Kia Sportage is available now.

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