Here’s a comparison between the all new Kia Sportage and the Toyota RAV4. These models are two of the most popular small SUVs in the country so worth a comparison.
Although the Kia Sportage has been released you will find it hard to buy the 2011 model due to short supply. We were told due to a lack of stock (December 2010). We think its because the Australian model will get the better suspension package not available else where in the world? If you can buy one you rewarded with a pretty decent city biased SUV.
Kia has come a long way in the last 10 years and the Sportage is one of the best models to date (2011). They have developed their own style inside and out which works just well if not better than many SUVs currently for sale new. The Sportage is easily more impressive than the Subaru Forester but is a match for the all Subaru XV -finally.
The Toyota RAV4 is looking just like any other Toyota – good but not inspiring. It still drives and looks OK but aging more than its newer competitors. The V6 version is unique it the class having so much power and is the only choice if instant power is your priority. However at the same time it is clear that the RAV4 wasn’t designed for that sort of power.
The Kia Sportage is all new and looks it. We like almost everything about the new Sportage. There are only a few things that need extra work and that involves developing a better basic petrol engine and arguably less fussy interior design. That said, next to the RAV4 the Sportage is the more impressive package.
Both are well made and solid with the Sportage having higher equipment levels than the RAV4. The option of 2WD only drive line makes them good value for money compared to the limited off road abilities of the AWD models.
If your budget doesn’t stretch to the Toyota RAV4 or you want something just as good then get the new Sportage. The Kia’s price is competitive and equipment levels make rivals like the RAV4 look overpriced.
| Kia Sportage | Toyota RAV4 |
 |
 |
| Engines | |
|
L4 Cylinder (G4KD) IL4 Cylinder (G4KE) IL4 Turbo Diesel (D4HA) |
IL 4 Cylinder (G4KD) IL4 Cylinder (G4KE) IL4 Turbo Diesel (D4HA) |
| Weight | |
|
Kerb weight 1470 – 1995Kg |
Kerb weight 1545 – 1665Kg |
| Fuel capacity & consumption | |
|
Up to 55 litres |
Up to 60 litres |
| Other specifications | |
|
5 speed manual or 6 speed Auto |
5 speed manual or 4 speed Auto |
| Capability | |
|
Angle of: (degrees) |
Angle of: (degrees) |
| Performance | |
|
Petrol (non-tubro) 0-100Kph:9.5 secs |
V6 Petrol (auto) 0-100Kph:7.4 secs |
| Pricing | |
|
2010 $26,990 – 37,990 AUD |
2010 $31,990 – 49,990 AUD (AWD models) |