2010 Paris Motor Show News Special
Kia revealed two new 'eco' engine options for the popular Sportage compact SUV in Paris.
A 1.7-litre turbodiesel and 1.6-litre petrol engine -- both Euro 5 compliant -- will be added to the range, matched to a six-speed manual transmission.
The diesel emits under 140g CO2/km (139) while the petrol engine is rated at 158g/100km. With the newly offered start/stop function the figures are down to 135g/km for the diesel and 149g/km for the petrol engine.
Kia Motors Australia (KMA) is considering the 1.7-litre diesel for local showrooms however currently the engine is only available with a manual transmission. KMA would like to make the offer Down Under with a six-speed automatic option.
The Sportage's sales success in Europe is partly to thank for the widened lineup. Kia anticipates the compact SUV segment will expand over the next five years and smaller engine options will increase the good-looking 'small' SUV's favour with buyers.
Considerable demand for the Sportage is causing supply issues worldwide. Kia will start production of diesel engines in its own facility in South Korea, which will open in April next year.
Currently sister brand Hyundai supplies diesel engines for the Sportage.
Kia has sold 32,000 Sportage models in Europe since its release there earlier this year.
During the Paris motor show Kia spokespersons proudly reported "a 10 per cent increase in sales, within a market that has actually decreased 10 per cent."
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