The Kia Sportage II, specifically the facelifted version introduced in 2008, represented a significant step forward for the South Korean automaker in the competitive European and global SUV market. Produced from 2008 to 2010, the 2.0 CRDi variant with 150 horsepower was a key offering, positioned as a practical and relatively efficient choice within the Sportage lineup. This generation, built on the same platform as the Hyundai Tucson, aimed to provide a more refined and capable vehicle than its predecessor, appealing to families and individuals seeking a versatile vehicle for both urban and light off-road use. The 2.0 CRDi 150 hp model was a popular choice, balancing performance with fuel economy, and offering a compelling alternative to established European and Japanese competitors.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Kia |
| Model | Sportage |
| Generation | Sportage II (facelift, 2008) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 CRDi (150 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2008 |
| End of production | 2010 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.8 l/100 km (26.7 US mpg, 32.1 UK mpg, 11.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.9 l/100 km (39.9 US mpg, 47.9 UK mpg, 16.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7 l/100 km (33.6 US mpg, 40.4 UK mpg, 14.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 184 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 179 km/h (111.23 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.4 kg/Hp, 95.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.1 kg/Nm, 194.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 3800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 75.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 304 Nm @ 1800-2500 rpm (224.22 lb.-ft. @ 1800-2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | D4EA |
| Engine displacement | 1991 cm3 (121.5 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.9 l (6.23 US qt | 5.19 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8.7 l (9.19 US qt | 7.65 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1565 kg (3450.23 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2170 kg (4784.03 lbs.) |
| Max load | 605 kg (1333.8 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 391 l (13.81 cu. ft.) |
| Length | 4351 mm (171.3 in.) |
| Width | 1801 mm (70.91 in.) |
| Height | 1694 mm (66.69 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2629 mm (103.5 in.) |
| Front track | 1539 mm (60.59 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1539 mm (60.59 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 196 mm (7.72 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.40 |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.8 m (35.43 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 215/65 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Sportage 2.0 CRDi was the D4EA engine, a 1991cc four-cylinder diesel. This engine utilized a second-generation common-rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for improved combustion efficiency and reduced emissions. A turbocharger with an intercooler further enhanced performance, boosting power output to 150 horsepower at 3800 rpm and generating a healthy 304 Nm (224.22 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1800 and 2500 rpm. The engine featured a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design with four valves per cylinder. The 6-speed manual transmission was standard, providing a good balance between fuel economy and drivability. The engine was transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle, contributing to a front-wheel-drive configuration.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.0 CRDi 150 hp Sportage offered a respectable driving experience for its class. While not a performance-oriented SUV, the engine provided sufficient power for everyday driving and highway cruising. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took around 10.5 seconds, and the top speed was approximately 111 mph. The manual transmission allowed for precise gear changes, and the torque-rich engine meant that strong acceleration was available from relatively low engine speeds. Compared to the base gasoline engines, the diesel offered significantly better fuel economy and a more relaxed driving experience, particularly on longer journeys. However, it lacked the outright punch of higher-powered diesel variants available in some markets.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0 CRDi Sportage typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment. This included air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and an audio system with CD player. Higher trim levels added features such as alloy wheels, a sunroof, leather upholstery, and automatic climate control. Safety features included ABS brakes, front airbags, and seatbelt pretensioners. The interior design was functional and relatively spacious, offering comfortable seating for five passengers. The overall aesthetic was aimed at practicality rather than luxury.
Chassis & Braking
The Sportage II utilized a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable ride and decent handling characteristics. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing braking performance and stability. The steering was a rack and pinion system, offering precise control. The vehicle’s ride height of 196 mm (7.72 in) provided adequate ground clearance for light off-road use.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Kia Sportage II 2.0 CRDi 150 hp was generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and value-for-money SUV. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and spacious interior. However, some critics noted that the engine could feel strained when fully loaded or driving uphill. Compared to competitors like the Nissan X-Trail and Honda CR-V, the Sportage offered a more affordable price point, but lacked some of the refinement and brand prestige. The diesel engine provided a significant advantage in terms of fuel economy compared to the gasoline options, making it a popular choice for drivers covering long distances.
Legacy
The Kia Sportage II, and specifically the 2.0 CRDi 150 hp variant, proved to be a reliable and durable vehicle. The D4EA engine, while not without its quirks, is generally considered to be a robust unit. Today, these vehicles can be found in the used car market at affordable prices. Common issues include wear and tear on suspension components and potential problems with the turbocharger. However, with regular maintenance, these vehicles can continue to provide years of reliable service. The Sportage II played a crucial role in establishing Kia as a credible player in the European SUV market, paving the way for the more sophisticated and popular models that followed.
