Kia Malaysia Introduces Sportage 2.0 EX Variant – Replaces KX and GT Petrol Variants

Naza Kia Malaysia has introduced a new variant of its Kia Sportage SUV, dubbed the 2.0 EX, which will succeed both the entry-level KX and GT variants, as the sole petrol-powered variant of the Sportage range.

The Sportage 2.0 (2WD) EX is priced at RM129,888 (OTR without Insurance) and slots below the diesel-powered Sportage 2.0D (AWD) GT, which is priced at RM153,888 (OTR without Insurance).

Given the new EX variant’s price tag, which sits in between the previously available KX (RM118k) and GT (RM138k) variants – the EX variant conditionally offers an array of additional equipment to offer better value to customers.

New for the EX are 18-inch alloy wheels, front and rear parking sensors, a rain sensor, and auto folding side mirrors with side repeaters. At the front, LED daytime running lights (previously only available on the GT variant), are also offered as standard. Elsewhere, keyless entry, a push start button, and automatic air-conditioning are other examples of equipment that were only offered on the GT Line previously.

On the inside, the 5-inch audio system has been replaced with a new 7-inch touch screen audio system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility. An Electrochromic auto dimming rear-view mirror is also standard on the EX variant.

There are no changes to the powertrain: the EX is powered by a 2.0-litre, naturally-aspirated, four-cylinder engine that delivers 153 hp at 6,200 rpm and 192 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm.  Power is sent to the front wheels through a six-speed automatic transmission.

Likewise, safety features are the same as before, featuring six airbags, anti-lock brake system (ABS), vehicle stability control (VSC), and hill-start assist control (HAC).

The Sportage EX is offered in Cherry Black, Mercury Blue, Fiery Red, Snow White Pearl, and Mineral Silver colours, replete with a five-year, unlimited mileage warranty.