Kia Sportage bags Budget 4X4 trophy

Confirming Kia’s outstanding performance in the workhorse-world of caravan and trailer towing, the latest Towcar Awards – jointly hosted by Practical Caravan, What Car? and The Camping and Caravanning Club – has added another prize to the South Korean car manufacturers’ display-cabinet.

This time it was the flexibility and versatility personified by the Sportage that captured the judging eyes that concluded in it being awarded the mantle of best Budget 4x4 in a competition that focuses on weight categories not price.

In particular, it was Sportage’s range-topping 2.0 CRDi Titan model that was singled out by the judging panel who collectively agreed that this vehicle showed it wasn’t necessary to spend enormous sums to get a capable, comfortable and enjoyable towing vehicle with all-wheel-drive.

With a powerful four-cylinder turbo-charged diesel engine producing a massive 305lb/ft of torque – essential for towing, larger diameter disc brakes that provide added security with a van or trailer behind and an extensive standard equipment list including air-conditioning all for £19,195.

It was universally acknowledged that the Titan is an excellent choice for campers and caravanners, and to that effect the Sportage saw off all-comers to snatch the sought-after value title.

Yaser Shabsogh, sales Director of Kia Motors (UK) Ltd., said: “This accolade simply confirms what our dealers and customers have been telling us for quite some time – it is almost impossible to find a better package of ability, quality, reliability and value than Sportage Titan.

“It has been a very successful addition to our Sportage range and impresses anyone who thinks that you have to spend big bucks to get big ability. We are delighted that the Towcar Awards 2008 have recognised what our customers have been saying for some time – for quality and value Kia continues to surprise,” he added.