Geneva: Kia Sportage
March 4th, 2010 by Richard Aucock
KIA is launching its new Sportage here in Geneva but doesn’t have a firm idea of when UK dealers will see it!
Left-hand drive production is underway right now – but, such has been the reception of the car, right-hand drive production risks being impacted.
‘We’re currently quoting a delivery ‘range’ of between June and November,’ admitted a spokesman. ‘It takes longer to engineer the production line for right-hand drive, which is why we’re having to wait.’
The delay may work in Kia dealers’ favour, though. Initial reports are such that many are saying the new car could actually be a viable rival to the Nissan Qashqai.
At the moment, the engines are too big for a direct comparison – but, with smaller and more affordable petrol engines, driving the front wheels instead 4-wheel drive, the two will become more evenly matched on price and fuel efficiency.
These will include a direct-injection 1.6 petrol, and a new 1.7 diesel. Both are due towards the end of the year.
Just in time to help the Sportage establish an even bigger slice of the market than already predicted?
By Richard Aucock
Car Dealer Magazine Geneva 2010 coverage
Tags: geneva 2010, Kia, sportage