The new Waukegan Kia Sportage has been spied, and it’s promising to be a great crossover SUV.  While it is currently being test driven in South Korea, Kia’s headquarters, expect it to arrive on U.S. lots sometime in the second half of 2010 (most likely to be sold as a 2011 model).

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.