New DIESEL Sportage (Australia)

[McCoy]

Diesel Kia Sportage previewed at Australian International Motor Show

Kia Motors Australia is previewing a diesel version of its popular Sportage compact SUV at this year’s Australian International Motor Show in Sydney, ahead of a planned introduction in mid 2007.

The Sportage features a turbocharged 2-litre common rail injection diesel employs a Variable Geometry Turbo (VGT) to deliver 103kW @ 4,000 rpm and 304 Nm @ 1,800-2,500rpm.

The diesel engine is mated to either a six -speed manual or a four-speed Tiptronic-style automatic gearbox and the diesel Sportage returns 7.1 litres/100kms according to factory estimates.

Pricing and specification have yet to be set for the diesel Sportage which will is currently undergoing evaluation testing in Australia.

The diesel Sportage builds on the value-packed 2.7-litre V6 Sportage, currently on sale in Australia at a recommended retail price of $29,990 drive-away including a free Trailrider accessory pack.

The V6 Sportage boasts electronic 4WD; tiptronic-style auto transmission; ABS brakes with Electronic Brake force Distribution; traction control; air-conditioning; power steering and windows; remote central locking; power mirrors; six–speaker AM/FM/CD audio system; front fog-lights; cruise control; and dual front SRS airbags.

[Glitch]

That's the diesel XS model that has been around in the UK since the begining of the year. Had mine since March, very happy , although to be honest the MPG figures are a bit of a stretch, unless you drive every where @ 50 mph that is..which I'm afraid I don't so I get about 31-33 MPG.
Still for the size/weight of the vehicle I'm pretty pleased.

[deepfreezevideo]

Who do we have to kill to get a diesel powered Kia Sportage in the USA...oh wait I think I already know the answer to that...it's more than one person.
I wonder how long we will be forced to submit to the gas monopoly here.