Kia Sportage 1.6 T-GDi AWD DCT GT-Line (2021) First Drive Impressions
Kia's final push with the current generation Sportage sees the introduction of a revitalized GT-Line derivative, packed with creature comforts, new tech and an engine and drivetrain combination that will please even the most cynical motoring enthusiasts.
As the new, 5th-generation Kia Sportage starts to appear over the horizon, Kia Motors South Africa give the existing 4th-generation a revitalizing jolt to send it on its merry way. The special-edition Kia Sportage GT-Line will be sold in limited numbers alongside its brethren as we patiently await the new model.
It’s not uncommon for manufacturers to give a run-out model a final push before switching the books over. In Kia’s case, this comes in the form of a sporty-looking and well-equipped GT-Line variant that will see a mere 170 units on offer.
Related: KIA Sportage 2.4 GDI SX AWD Auto - Video Review
We’ve had our criticism of the Sportage in the past and were less than pleased with the combination of engine and gearbox in the 2.4 GDI SX variant so I was keen to see if the mix of 1.6-litre turbo engine and 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox would rectify this. Would this be the solution or would the GT-Line treatment be nothing more than pouring gravy over a rancid steak?
The Drive
Thankfully, the combination of powerplant and drivetrain is a winning one, complemented exceptionally well by the suspension and mechanical grip levels.
Sampling the new GT-Line through the sweeps and hills of the Western Cape, I was able to lean on the suspension and flex the performance of this C-segment SUV. I was not left disappointed. While it never pretends to be a sports car, I was adamant to treat it as one and it duly responded, offering an enthusiastic drive with adequate feedback and an urgency that help give the GT-moniker credibility.
Eco, Normal, and Sport drive modes give you a noticeable difference in throttle response, steering weight and shifts from the DCT gearbox with manual intervention from the paddle shifters translating into rather accurate up and downshifts.
The GT-Line offers up both a comfortable cruiser with low NVH levels and creature conveniences but rewards the spirited driver as well with underlying sportiness.
The Figures
The 1.6-litre turbocharged GDI engine produces 130 kW of power and develops 265 Nm torque from as low as 1 500 RPM to give the GT-Line a 0 to 100 km/h sprint time of 9.1-seconds.
Power is sent to all four wheels through the aforementioned 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox and onto all four wheels through an All-Wheel-Drive system with various settings for improved traction on loose surfaces.
The Features
The GT-Line boasts an array of convenience features that ensure that you won’t want for much, whether the trip is brief and short, or long and arduous.
Heated front and rear seats with two-tone leather trim provide the support while the front pair are electrically adjusted. The perforated leather allows them to breathe as well for additional comfort on those longer journeys.
The 8-inch infotainment system is robust and intuitive and despite the slightly dated operating system, offers Apple CarPlay and Android Auto with wireless smart charging in a tray in front of the gear selector. This still uses the traditional USB-A connection for smartphone tethering though.
Dual-zone climate control, power tailgate, LED headlights, and a panoramic sunroof are all standard features in the GT-Line and there’s nothing to specify when ordering a Sportage GT-Line.
The Safety
With a 5-star Euro NCAP crash rating, the Kia Sportage GT-Line is more than safe enough for you and your family and features 6-airbags, ABS, EBD, ESC, HAC (Hill-start Assist Control), and DBC (Downhill Brake Control).
The GT-Line further benefits from a reverse camera and PCD for the rear to make manoeuvring in and out of parking spaces a little bit easier. ISOFIX mountings in the rear also allow you to fit a suitable child seat to the outer seats.
Pricing
One of the most surprising aspects of the Kia Sportage GT-Line is the price. When launched in 2016, the GT-Line retailed for R599 995 and was criticised for being a touch on the expensive side. Now, in 2021, the same model (with better features and trims) is retailing for a mere R649 995 – an increase of less than 10% over the last 5-years.
The model is still backed by the same warranty and service plan with the warranty covering 5-years / unlimited km while the service plan extends to 5-years / 90 000 km.
Verdict
The GT-Line resolves many of the concerns I previously had around the model. The engine and gearbox combination is far better than that of the 2.4 SX derivative and makes it enjoyable to drive on any occasion.
As a last hurrah before the next generation arrives, the GT-Line is more than enough car to carry you for the next few years without feeling dated in its drive or antiquated in its trim.
