KIA has not made sales headlines for the right reasons with its compact Sportage SUV, but hopes that the introduction of a price-leading 2WD and a turbo-diesel may reverse the slide experienced by the existing V6 petrol model. The Sportage since introduction in April 2005, has been a value purchase but equipped with a V6 and four-speed auto powertrain that is thirstier than its four-cylinder competitors but lacks any real performance advantage to compensate for it. The new LX 2.0-litre has a significant price advantage and answers the V6's economy problem (even if it's not competitive with the market for power). It dispenses with all-wheel drive but keeps the high-body SUV stance that appeals to buyers with easier entry point and high driving position. The diesel will please rural buyers and is a surprisingly good package and, as a bonus, will appeal if you want to save money at the bowser.