The Kia Sportage has been a household name in the SUV market for years, but with the 1.6T GDI 207 HEV GT-Line S, Kia has taken things to an entirely new level. We tested this standout model in the eye-catching Experience Green colour, exploring the roads around Belper, and came away thoroughly impressed.
Exterior Design: Bold and Contemporary
The Sportage’s design has been completely transformed in this latest iteration. Dressed in Experience Green, it looks fresh and dynamic, combining bold styling with a confident road presence. Its distinctive grille and unique boomerang-shaped LED daytime running lights give the front end a futuristic flair, while the sleek rear design, complete with striking LED tail lights, ties everything together beautifully.
The GT-Line S trim adds sporty touches like dual-tone alloy wheels and subtle detailing that hint at the performance hidden beneath the hybrid bonnet. Whether parked outside a trendy café or cruising through the countryside, this Sportage demands attention.
Performance: Hybrid Power Done Right
The 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine, paired with an electric motor, produces a combined 207hp, and the result is superb. The hybrid system is responsive and smooth, making everyday driving effortless. Around Belper, we encountered a mix of winding country lanes and town traffic, and the Sportage excelled in every scenario. The transition between petrol and electric power is seamless, and the extra torque from the hybrid motor is noticeable when pulling away or overtaking.
The ride feels refined, soaking up bumps with ease while maintaining excellent composure. Steering is light and precise, making the Sportage a pleasure to manoeuvre, whether on tight village roads or open stretches of countryside. The hybrid system’s efficiency adds another layer of appeal, ensuring that longer journeys are as economical as they are enjoyable.
Interior: Premium Comfort and Cutting-Edge Tech
Step inside the GT-Line S, and you’re greeted by a cabin that feels premium and well thought out. One of the standout features is the heated and ventilated front seats, which cater perfectly to all seasons. Rear passengers aren’t left out either, with heated seats ensuring everyone travels in comfort.
The tech on offer is second to none. The 12.3-inch central infotainment screen is crisp and responsive, offering full Apple CarPlay compatibility. Pairing a phone is straightforward, and apps like Spotify, Google Maps, and WhatsApp work flawlessly. A matching 12.3-inch digital driver’s display complements the infotainment system, giving a modern and tech-forward feel.
Thoughtful touches abound, from the wireless phone charger to multiple USB-C ports and a panoramic sunroof that floods the cabin with light. Build quality is impressive, with soft-touch materials used generously, making the interior feel as good as it looks.
Practicality is another strong suit. The cabin is spacious, with plenty of storage options for all the essentials, and the boot offers ample room for luggage, groceries, or outdoor gear.
Driving Experience: Smooth and Versatile
Out on the road, the Sportage feels equally at home navigating Belper’s narrow lanes or cruising on motorways. The hybrid system provides quiet, efficient operation in urban settings, while the petrol engine ensures there’s enough power on tap for more spirited drives. The GT-Line S is comfortable and well-insulated, keeping wind and road noise to a minimum.
The suite of driver-assistance features makes every journey stress-free. Adaptive cruise control works brilliantly for long trips, while lane-keeping assist and blind-spot monitoring provide extra peace of mind. Parking is a breeze thanks to the 360-degree camera and front and rear sensors – particularly useful for a car of this size.
Living With the Sportage
Kia has thought carefully about making the Sportage a practical choice for everyday life. From school runs to weekend adventures, it ticks all the boxes. The hybrid system ensures excellent fuel economy, especially on urban commutes, while the spacious interior and clever tech make it a pleasure to use daily.
Small conveniences, like the wireless phone charging pad and ample cubby storage, ensure the cabin stays clutter-free, while the premium finishes give it a touch of luxury. Add in Kia’s famous seven-year warranty, and you’ve got an SUV that’s as practical as it is desirable.
Final Verdict
The Kia Sportage 1.6T GDI 207 HEV GT-Line S is a triumph of design, engineering, and practicality. It’s fun to drive, efficient, and packed with features that make it stand out in the competitive SUV market.
Finished in Experience Green, it’s a hybrid SUV that doesn’t just get the job done – it makes every journey something to look forward to. If you’re in the market for a stylish, tech-packed family car that’s as capable on the daily commute as it is on weekend getaways, the Sportage should be at the top of your list.
Do you feel that 2 or 3 years is too long for a car lease? Same here, it’s always nice to drive some of the latest cars, so it might be time to consider a short-term car lease or a car subscription. These are short-term solutions for business and personal customers that give you all of the benefits of a traditional contract hire agreement, but over a shorter term.Â
The Kia Sportage is currently available from Cocoon Vehicles on a short-term car lease, there are various derivatives available and they all come with generous mileage allowances. Sign-up today.
Disclaimer
Cocoon Vehicles is owned by the writer of Gadget Geek Boy; Rhys Adams. Cars are either demo units or cars that we get access to. Reviews are based on our own views.
