Local View: Sleeper alert — Kia Sportage is really that good

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What the heck is Kia doing, coming out with such a peppy, powerful mini-SUV with a manufacturer’s suggested retail price that starts at just more than $20,000?

2009 Kia SportageEngine » 60-degree V-6, aluminum block and heads, 264 hp @ 6000 rpmTransmission » 5-speed manual, 4-speed automaticManufacturer’s suggested retail price » From $20,370

It’s important to take all of the kudos any car receives with a large grain of salt, but it’s clear why Consumer Digest named the 2009 Kia Sportage a “Best Buy” for the second year in a row. Although last year’s model rightfully received praise, the 2009 version has an updated exterior that includes a reshaped grill plus new headlights and bumpers — making it even sportier looking. The same high-gloss, premier exterior finish that won the 2008 Sportage praise shines on.

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