02 Kia Sportage, 85k miles as a back up vehicle? (Hyundai, 2004, cars)

[mrs1885]

Anyone have opinions? I've known people that have owned them and seemed to love them. Mechanically speaking, how are they as a back up vehicle? Since I went four wheeling in the Miata a few weeks ago, I'm terrified to drive it in the rain / snow. Looking for something for the bad days and then I'll break the M back out when it's nice out.

[iTsLiKeAnEgG]

I'd definitely go with a 2004+ as the 1995-2002 models were some of the first KIA's sold in the US market and not quite up to the same quality standards they have now. 2002 may not seem that far away but it might as well be a 1980 for how much better the new Kia/Hyundai products are.

[mrs1885]

Originally Posted by iTsLiKeAnEgG

I'd definitely go with a 2003+ as the 1995-2002 models were some of the first KIA's sold in the US market and not quite up to the same quality standards they have now.

Didn't know that!! Thanks! Perhaps I'll spend the extra grand or so and get one a bit newer then.

[iTsLiKeAnEgG]

Originally Posted by mrs1885

Didn't know that!! Thanks! Perhaps I'll spend the extra grand or so and get one a bit newer then.

I edited my post to say 2004 because apparently there was no 2003 model.

[las vegas drunk]

They are a total piece of crap. They were even recalled twice for the rear wheels falling off while driving. Here are what people who bought them had to say....

2002 Kia Sportage Reviews - Carsurvey.org