The look is decidedly changed from the predecessor. But it’s all for the better. In addition to a more stylized exterior, the 2011 Sportage is longer, wider, and lower than the 2010 version. And, the driver gets the benefits with improved handling and sleeker aerodynamics. Also giving the vehicle a handling assist is Sportage’s re-engineered rear suspension in which the dampers and coil springs are mounted separately. The all-new compact crossover utility vehicle is sold in three trims: base, LX and EX. Cargo volume with rear seat in upright position is 26.1 cubic feet, and the space expands to 54.6 cubic feet with rear seat down. Sportage also serves up a quieter interior, courtesy of additional NVH treatments.

In terms of performance, the 2011 steel unibody Sportage drops the 2.7-liter V6 with 173 horsepower that was available in 2010. But the replacement—a 2.4-liter ULEV emission-rated 4-cylinder with variable valve timing—dishes up 176 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 168 pounds-feet of torque at 4000 rpm. (A 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder, producing 260 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 269 pounds-feet of torque between 1850-3000 rpm, is also available as is a SULEV emissions-rated 2.4-liter 4-cylinder.) The 103.9-inch wheelbase Sportage EX with all-wheel drive, 2.4-liter engine, and 6-speed automatic transmission carries a MSRP of $24,795 and collects estimated mpg of 21 city and 28 highway.