The 2008 Kia Sportage received no significant upgrades or changes for the 2008 model year, yet it remains a very affordable, compact SUV with a functional yet stylish interior and an abundance of safety features and a long 10 year/1000,000 mile warranty. Although the market is now almost flooded with compact SUV's, the Sportage is worth consideration by those in the market for a smaller SUV at an affordable price.

This little SUV is available in LX or EX trims, and both models are available in front or all wheel drive. The LX comes standard with 16 inch alloy wheels, tinted glass, power windows, mirrors and door locks, air conditioning and an AM/FM/CD stereo system. The EX model includes a more powerful V6 engine as well as a sunroof, fog lights, heated outside mirrors, a trip computer, keyless entry and MP3 capability. Options are plentiful and include heated leather seats, a remote start system, side step bars, a rear spoiler and an upgraded audio system.

The Sportage is available with either the 2.0 liter 4 cylinder or a 2.7 liter V6 and the EX version comes standard with the V6 engine and an automatic transmission. All are available in either front or all wheel drive. The V6 versions have been able to go from 0 to 60 at just under 11 seconds, though consumers looking for a mini van are probably not as concerned about speed as they are about functionality. A V6 Sportage has EPA estimates of 17 mpg in the city and 21 on the highway, which is on par for its class, with the 4 cylinder versions coming in with ever so slightly better numbers.

The 2008 Kia Sportage provides a car like ride and sporty handling that makes it a little more fun to drive than a lot of other compact SUVs or mini vans. Although the V6 is much more capable, the 4 cylinder provides enough power to get through the daily commute and is slightly more fuel efficient.