Steering is courtesy of a variable assist rack and pinion setup that requires little effort in parking lots yet offers more feedback on the highway. The brakes, a four-wheel, front vented and rear solid disc antilock setup equipped with electronic brake force distribution, are responsive and well-modulated.

The 2005 Kia Sportage rides on a fully independent suspension, with MacPherson struts in front and a multi-link system in the rear. Front and rear stabilizer bars are standard on all models. Kia engineers claim to have tuned the suspension so that it best combines tight handling with low NVH (noise, vibration and harshness) levels. The idea is that as handling improves, comfort and interior noise levels suffer, and vice versa. As a result, the Sportage provides a comfortable, fairly quiet ride, though it has a tendency to roll and plow a bit when pushed in the corners. Since this is an SUV, the handling draws no complaints and the low NVH levels are welcome.

With brakes, steering, and suspension systems that meet or exceed the standards in the class, that makes the uninspired powertrain the weakest link, especially considering the competition. When comparing four-cylinder engines, the Honda Element and CR-V both offer an extra 20 horsepower, the Jeep Liberty an extra 10 horsepower, and the Toyota RAV4 an extra 21 horsepower. In regards to the V6, the Chevrolet Equinox boasts 12 more horsepower, the Ford Escape another 27 horsepower, and the Jeep Liberty packs in an additional 37 horses. And many of these vehicles combine equal or better fuel economy with higher curb weights. While the Sportage provides enough grunt for the daily commute, an injection of power is needed to make it feel as lively as some of its competitors. The manually-interactive automatic transmission helps out a bit by allowing the driver to hold gears longer and keep the revs up, resulting in a more entertaining ride.