1996 Kia Sportage from North America

Summary:

A piece of crap

Faults:

Three driveshafts.

One complete engine.

Computer ($1,000!! + labor).

Lots of electrical problems.

Cam bearings.

Battery failure after only a year.

It is a complete and total failure of quality, fit, finish and manufacturing by Kia Inc.

General Comments:

Do not buy a Kia. Just search the web and you will see I am not alone.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 26th October, 2000

28th Jan 2001, 20:39

Your previous car was a KIA too!!! It was built for Ford by KIA.

19th Apr 2001, 20:39

I have only good intentions to tell you that the Ford Festiva was designed by Mazda. Ford owns a large part of Mazda if not the whole company. In fact when you buy a small truck from Mazda, most of the parts are from a Ford Ranger. I know these things from experience.

1996 Kia Sportage EX 2.0 from North America

Summary:

Best SUV bargain in the market today!

Faults:

Check engine flashes once in a while, no apparent reason?

General Comments:

I think this is one of the best buys on the market. Has anyone priced those other SUV's???!! They're a small fortune. When I bought this one I was kinda nervous cause I had heard that Kia's weren't that good but that was so wrong. I have never had any other vehicle that I have enjoyed driving this much.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 13th March, 2000

1996 Kia Sportage SE 2.0 petrol from UK and Ireland

Faults:

Air conditioning, fuel filter, central locking (2), exhaust, chrome door handles, leaking diff, incorrect rocker cover, and others. Some parts allegedly fiitted incorrectly at one service dealer. Parts originally hard to come by for dealers. The car has covered less than 24,000mls, has a FSH, never been off road but build quality is a major problem. Passed 1st MOT but advised wheel bearings needed adjustment and also h/brake. Less than 3 months after a 24,000ml service.

General Comments:

I like the drive and feel of the car etc but have been let down badly with build quality and reliability. There are at least 4 Kia dealers in my area who now no longer deal in Kia cars and only 1 that will service. My car has been in repair for about 10 days in the time I have had it and I know that mine isn't an isolated case.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 31st January, 1999