2010 Kia Sportage - Styling Review

See more photos

Shopping for a 2010 Kia Sportage? MSRP: $16,995 - $23,495

SEE LOCAL CLASSIFIEDS

The changes incorporated last year included body color-matching front and rear bumpers, a new grille design, new headlights and fog lights, and new alloy wheels. Overall, though, the 2010 Kia Sportage keeps the same basic silhouette it's had for many years.

According to Kelley Blue Book, the Sportage’s "distinctive design is modern, clean and attractive...a curvaceous, almost organic look, with a get-up-and-go attitude." The guys at The Auto Channel report being "pleasantly impressed with the Kia Sportage as far as looks...are concerned." Details that detract from the appearance are black bumpers on some models, and a nose that seems too small for the rest of the vehicle. Cars.com also points out that Kia Sportage "styling echoes the larger Sorento's, and flared wheel arches help establish what Kia calls a 'strong visual presence.'"

Last year’s update also saw a refreshed interior; it was nearly all trim, though, with a new center fascia installed, as well as standard fitment of Sirius Satellite Radio and auxiliary and USB jacks with MP3 playback capabilities. ConsumerGuide says the “gauges are clearly marked and easy to see.” Edmunds backs this up, describing the interior as “stylish and functional,” as well as “attractive.” Kelley Blue Book notes that "improved plastics and upholstery throughout the 2010 Kia Sportage lineup...attractive cloth upholstery gives an impression of comfort and durability...adding to the upscale appeal are aluminized accents on both the instrument and door panels."

The Auto Channel goes on to praise the 2010 Kia Sportage’s interior, explaining that it "looks and feels a lot classier than you think it would," and that while it "certainly isn't going to dazzle you with dual temperature controls, power seating or a Bose stereo, the center console and dashboard are still modern and sleek in design with basic features."