2010 Geneva Auto Show: Kia Sportage

South Korean manufacturer Kia unveiled at the 2010 Geneva Auto Show the new generation Sportage SUV, bringing new dimensions, a design cue inspired by the 2007 Kia Kue concept and refreshened engine range.

The new Sportage boasts more European-like lines, as it has been designed under the guidance of former Audi designer Peter Schreyer. The lines are sleeker, while the increased size of the vehicle will be more appealing to American consumers.

The new SUV is built on the same platform as the Hyundai ix35, thus being bigger than the previous generation. It features engines ranging from a 2.0l and 2.4l four cylinder units, all coupled to a six-speed transmission.

Although not all details on the new Sportage have been released, it would appear that for Europe the Sportage will get the same 1.7l and 2.0l diesel, as well as the 1.6l and 2.0l gasoline units as the iX35.

"With over 910,000 units sold globally since the revamped version of the original Sportage went on sale in August 2004, this third generation model is poised to continue the tremendous momentum for the brand on the heels recently launched products like the Soul, Forte (All-new Cerato), All-new Sorento and Cadenza," Kia says in a release.

"The Sportage was the car that really made the breakthrough for Kia in Europe and the all-new version will make people sit up and take notice, just as the original did. I am convinced it will begin a remarkable new chapter in the Kia story."