Kia Sportage Leads Pack in Safety Ratings

Apr 29, 2016

Kia keeps racking up awards as automotive critics realize something the public has known for a long time now – when it comes to affordable quality, Kia is among the top tier of automakers. Kia recently scored another coup when its new 2017 Sportage SUV won the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s Top Safety Pick + rating, a coveted award given only to the safest cars on the highway.

Now available at Mandan auto dealers and other North Dakota car dealerships, the new Kia Sportage endured rigorous crash tests to earn the Safety Pick + rating, including overcoming the small front overlap test that has been a stumbling block for many small SUVs seeking the rating.

Impeccable Safety

The IIHS has a rigorous testing regimen to determine which vehicles win its Safety Pick + rating. The organization requires top-rated vehicles to earn “good” ratings in small overlap front, moderate overlap front, roof strength, side impact, and head restraint tests. The vehicles must also earn an “advanced” or “superior” rating for front crash prevention to earn the TSP + rating.

Kia’s use of Advanced High Strength Steel in the 2017 Kia Sportage may have sealed the deal for its top safety pick rating. A sizable portion of the Sportage’s body is made of AHSS, and experts say the stronger steel has improved torsional rigidity by 39 percent.

Kia has become a leader in the automotive industry in incorporating smart and sensible electronics into its vehicles. The digital age has been a struggle for many automakers, evidenced by ham-handed attempts at infotainment systems and user-unfriendly interfaces. Kia’s electronic offerings have been smooth, and its electronic safety measures are no exception. The new Kia Sportage offers a forward collision warning system, autonomous emergency braking, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, blind spot detection, and more.

Sportage Features

In addition to top-notch safety, the Kia Sportage also has a number of other features that car consumers are sure to love.

The new Sportage is powered by a standard 2.4 liter four cylinder engine that generates 181 horsepower and 177 lb. ft. of torque. Sportage buyers can also opt for a 2.0 liter engine that produces 241 horsepower and 260 lb. ft. of torque.

Automotive experts have remarked on the new Sportage’s distinct, jet-fighter-like exterior appearance, which sets it apart from its many competitors. The Sportage has also gotten good reviews for its roomy cabin, quality interior surfaces and upholstery, and its reduced road noise.

The new Sportage is an affordable crossover that’s sporty, fun to drive, and safe. It’s a great buy for consumers.

Bill Barth Kia, a leader among Bismarck, N.D. area car dealers, strives to provide a comfortable and fun car-buying experience for consumers. With a huge selection of Kia cars, trucks, and SUVs, the Bill Barth Kia dealership is the place to go to find the best deal on a new or pre-owned vehicle. To schedule a test drive call 701-667-9999, or just visit Mandan auto dealers at Bill Barth Kia.