Many of you have probably consulted Consumer Reports a time or two do some research for a product you want to buy, or are considering checking out.  Their rating system is trusted by millions of people and they offer information on a wide variety of goods, including automobiles of all different classes and manufacturers.

Recently the Kia Sportage, Waukegan drivers of crossovers can test drive now at Classic Kia, went up against two other vehicles in its class.  All three were tested by experts for Consumer Reports and the Kia Sportage topped the list, thanks to some very impressive features.

Highlights of the Sportage

When auto testers for CR drove this crossover, they found it to have very good handling.  It didn’t feel heavy or hard to drive, but navigated through area streets very well.  This is a big reason that car shoppers might consider a crossover, such as the Sportage.  It has a similar driveability as a sedan, but it offers a bit more cargo and passenger space, so you feel like you get the best of both worlds. 

Other perks to owning a Sportage include a very efficient six-speed automatic transmission, nice braking ability, and a good powertrain.  The braking is enhanced by a panic system that senses if the auto needs the brakes applied quickly and will do so.  You never know when a close call might happen while driving, so it’s important to feel safe! 

Especially during the winter, another feature that is available with the Sportage is an all-wheel drive option.  It does not come standard, but if that is a must, please talk to the staff here at your Round Lake used cars and more dealership, Classic Kia.  The Sportage also has good gas mileage, which is nice to hear. 

The Sportage is further enhanced by a fresh design.  The front of the crossover, with a redesigned grille and headlights, is sure to get heads turning.  It also sits closer to the ground, is a bit wider, and longer than those Sportage models you might find in the inventory of Round Lake used cars here at our store.

We are happy Consumer Reports found the Sportage to be such a great vehicle!

The IIHS recently named 66 autos across the board for 2011 top safety picks, the most they have ever awarded for a single year.  This should be a good demonstration of how much safer autos are getting each year, thanks to advances in engineering and a plethora of new safety advances that come our way. 

Kia should be very happy with the recent picks as several models were included in the list of 66.  You can find these at Classic Kia, your leading Round Lake used carsdealership for Kia models and beyond.  The list includes the following:

• Optima
• Forte
• Soul
• Sportage
• Sorento

As you can see, this list is a nice variety of smaller and larger autos that are able to withstand front, side and roof crash tests with a top rating of “good” in each category.  The tests done each year by IIHS are extremely comprehensive, even more so than some tests ordered by the government.  Those of us at Classic Kia are proud to offer autos that are some of the safest you can drive today.

What are some of the safety features you might find in one of these top picks, such as the Kia Sportage Waukegan residents can easily come in and test drive now?

The 2011 Sportage is offered at our store in the following trims:  Base, EX, and LX.  Let’s check out the LX model and some of the safety features offered in this SUV:

• Four-wheel anti lock braking system
• Plenty of front and side airbags designed to protect driver and passengers in the case of an accident
• Brake Assist:  Works in conjuction with anti-lock brakes to apply the brakes quickly, even if the driver is only pressing lightly, and aid the car to a quick stop.  It basically senses a situation in which a quick and safe stop is necessary.
• Electronic Stability Control and Traction Control

Many of these safety features can be found on other Kia models, with standard features varying depending which model and trim you prefer.  Our staff will help you find new or Round Lake used cars that come equipped with all the safety features that are important to you and your passengers.  Stop by today and check out our inventory!

The technology behind the Sportage’s powertrain was developed through Kia’s partnership with Hyundai.  The engine is referred to as an “R-engine” that will give Kia Sportage Chicago models 184 horsepower.  There is also talk that the current V6 engine will be replaced with a 4-cylinder unit that will use gas more efficiently.

The Korean automaker is really keeping the exterior details hidden from the general public.  It is said that the design will be very similar to the Kia Sorento Crossover.   The front design that has been seen on the roads is a fascia style that is very appealing to the eye.  Overall, the Waukegan Kia Sportage will have a sportier, sleeker look to it when the new wave of models hits local lots.

Kia’s current 2010 Sportage has received high marks for safety and Kia will continue to offer those options on the 2011 model.  Some of these features include advanced air bags, traction control system, and Electronic Stability Control.  It has also received high marks in seating positions and a high rollover score.

While the new model will not be here for another 9-12 months, you can visit your Round Lake used cars dealership for great deals on Kia Sorento,  Optima, and many other certified vehicles.

I was very pleasantly surprised with what I found from this Kia. From the moment I sat down in the luxurious leather bucket seats I realized that this Kia meant serious business. As I looked around I also noticed that it had enough room for a small army. The interior boasts retractable seats, and when they are down, 67 cubic feet are available for cargo, which is actually more space than some larger SUVs offer.

Once we started driving, I was very impressed with all of the driving features that this Kia has to offer. As my Waukegan dealer explained to me, this SUV comes equipped with a 2.0 liter, 4 cylinder, 140 horsepower engine and has a counterpart that is available as a 2.7 liter, V6, 173 horsepower hoss. I drove the former, and it was a very impressive ride. The engine has a Steptronic transmission, so basically with the tap of my finger, I could manually shift the gear I was in. It was simple and easy (and tons of fun).

And it also comes with plenty of safety features such as Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and has been given Five Star Ratings from the NHTSA for its frontal and side impacts.

Overall, I was very impressed with the quality and the performance during my Waukegan Kia Sportage test drive. The Sportage has plenty of space for every aspect of life, along with a ride that is easy to handle and an acceleration that will excite anyone. So if you are looking into finding a new SUV, take it from someone who has been obsessed with them for years. The newest addition the SUV family is doing the name proud and the Waukegan Kia Sportage will have SUV fans everywhere wanting a test drive of their own.