The Kia Sportage is a compact crossover SUV. Inexpensive and reliable, the Sportage has come out as one of the Korean company’s bestselling models. Three generations of the car has been produced since its introduction in 1993.

The first generation was patterned from the Mazda Bongo platform. During this period, Kia allied with Ford and Mazda to produce high quality technology from affordable resources. The German-made Sportage flourished in Europe, while the Korean version was marketed to the rest of the world. International markets discontinued marketing the model by 2003.

A second generation was introduced in 2005. This version was produced with the help of Hyundai, and sported a completely new look from the first generation. Reception was divided among first generation and second generation enthusiasts. While the former complained of the loss of the car’s off-road capabilities, the later lauded its comfort and style. Consumer Reports reliability survey has revealed that the Sportage is one of the most reliable vehicles in 2009.

In 2010, Kia once again introduced the Sportage with a trendier look and safer design. This generation won Top Safety Pick from Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, 2011 Car of the Year in Slovakia and was nominated Truck of the Year in the International Car of the Year Awards.