automobiles

2011 Kia Sportage

The fastest-growing segment is the compact crossover utility vehicle segment --- and Kia is bringing a real contender to market with the all-new 2011 Kia Sportage.

Under the bonnet there’ll be the existing 2.0-litre petrol and diesel units, but by the time UK sales start in October the Sportage will also have a new 1.7-litre diesel and a 1.6-litre petrol. Six-speed manual and automatic gearboxes will be on offer initially, but a dual-clutch transmission (plus a turbocharged 1.6 petrol) will follow.

These are the first pictures of the new Kia Sportage, the Korean car company's latest compact SUV. It will be unveiled at the 2010 Geneva motor show next month, and UK sales start in the autumn.

The new Sportage has a longer wheelbase than the model it replaces, which Kia promises will improve ride quality. Both Koreans will also be offered with the choice of two- and four-wheel drive.