Safest crossover

Kia has come on massively in recent years. The Sportage in particular represents a quantum leap over its predecessor, and we love it. Bold looks, a top-quality cabin and seven-year warranty have helped it win a few road tests, and it’s good to drive.
 

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Yet the Korean firm hasn’t ignored safety as it improves its vehicles, because the Sportage outscored the BMW X1 in Euro NCAP’s child and adult occupant tests. The Kia got maximum points in the side impact assessment as well, while the passenger compartment suffered no major deformation in the frontal hit. 

Chest protection in the more severe side pole test was marginal, but the overall 96 per cent adult rating was superb. Also, in the side impact trial both child dummies were properly held within their restraints.

Stability control is standard fit, although the car lost points in the pedestrian injury assessment on account of its bluff front end.