FLASH DRIVE

What is a Flash Drive? On media days we get to drive cars for around an hour, which is great when you want to get a feel for it, but not necessarily enough for a full review, so these are our mini reviews.

Kia Sportage ‘GT Line S’ 1.6 T-GDI

Kia’s Sportage has always been a favourite SUV of mine, they’re solidly built, comfortable, dependable and when fitted with their AWD system, pretty decent off the beaten track, too.

However, at a recent Kia media day, they only brought along their 2WD Sportage, a 1.6 litre 48V diesel that I reviewed in last September’s issue, and this, the 1.6 litre turbo charged petrol.

As ever, finding my perfect driving position was easy, and being the GT-Line S model means that it comes packed with all manner of goodies.

The ventilated front seats are really comfortable, with the driver getting 10-way power adjustable movement and 8-way adjustable for the front passenger. Oh yeah, there’s a heated steering wheel too.

I also like how the centre screen is tapered towards the driver, which is a nice touch. I’m not saying it gives the driver a cockpit feel, it’s just more driver orientated.

It remains my favourite SUV, from all-around space, comfort and a well design dash layout and switchgear.

If I wasn’t already aware that it was a 2WD model, I was when I put foot down and the two front wheels fought for grip on the wet Yorkshire roads.

With 174bhp and a 6-speed manual gearbox, it’s was quite easy to induce front wheel spin. This particular Sportage is an SUV you can have quite a bit of fun with, but if you’re spending money on this top spec, I’d definitely opt for the AWD model.

The ride is firm, yet comfortable, if that makes sense. The electric steering set-up is quick and offers you plenty of feedback, which is great when you’re having a bit of fun on twisty lanes.

The suspension and new chassis really do work well together, in fact, all combined, the Kia Sportage remains a fun and very accomplished SUV, and in my opinion is up there with the best in its segment.

price: from £23.445 (tested model £30,510). more at » www.kia.com