They are gradually losing the status of slow and clumsy cars, which they inherited from the SUVs of previous years. A good example is the new generation SsangYong Actyon, in which the car has not only changed visually, but also lost the frame and received completely new technology that contributes to achieving better dynamic performance. It can be compared with a similar Korean crossover, which has a longer history of existence in a completely passenger class -. To check which car is better suited for active drivers - SangYong Aktion or KIA Sportage, we will take modifications with the most powerful diesel engines and manual transmissions. At the same time, KIA Sportage and SsangYong Actyon will be equal in cost - the difference in the price of the most expensive configurations does not exceed 100 thousand rubles.

SsangYong Actyon and KIA Sportage - crossovers for active people

Go straight away!

Crossover power lines

Since the comparison includes the most powerful versions of the modern crossovers SsangYong Actyon and KIA Sportage, it is worth immediately moving on to the dynamics comparison. SsangYong has excellent acceleration control - pedal damping, which is typical for most manufacturers, is almost not felt, so the car even provokes risky maneuvers. the capacity of 175 horsepower is enough for the Actyon in abundance - in the city the car makes it possible to be the first to leave the lane at the traffic lights, leaving behind even some “charged” coupes with gasoline engines thanks to the incredible diesel thrust, which reaches its peak already at 3000 rpm. But when trying to continue the competition, it will inevitably lose, since the elongated gears in the manual transmission are more focused on efficiency and smoothness. But on the track, you just have to relax and use one of the Actyon step-ups, forgetting about the need to switch in order to keep up even in heavy traffic.

If we compare the KIA Sportage or SsangYong Actyon that got into testing, it turns out that the first one with a similar displacement of the power unit - performance reaches 184 horsepower. However, at the first acquaintance with the KIA car, this is not felt at all thanks to the very heavy gas pedal, which inevitably slows down acceleration when starting from a standstill. But the situation changes with a set of speed - if the SsangYong Actyon looks like a kind of bully, briskly starting from traffic lights and giving up in serious competition, then KIA Sportage with its fighting character is ready to stand to the end. In many respects, the excellent dynamic parameters are explained by the well-chosen gear ratios in the manual transmission, which allow you to constantly keep the engine in the operating speed range. And the torque limit is reached a little earlier, so the slow-starting Sportage allows you to maintain an excellent pace in the future, both in city traffic and on a free country road.

Passability

Since we are comparing crossovers, it is worth taking the opportunity and evaluating them - especially since the SsangYong Actyon of the previous generation was not inferior in this to many more serious cars. However, the miracle did not happen - in front of us is a completely different machine, designed with a different approach. The Actyon's transition from frame to monocoque body, in addition to reducing weight and lowering the center of gravity, also took away part of the ground clearance, of which only 190 mm remained. Even this figure would be good, but everything is spoiled by the stylish bumpers SsangYong Actyon, which were created with a view to city driving, and have very small angles of entry and exit. The Actyon's all-wheel drive transmission, which uses a viscous clutch, rarely overheats, unlike many other crossovers, but allows for a few seconds to slip before engaging - during this time you can get very deeply stuck. Before a washed-out primer on SsangYong Actyon, the clutch can be forcibly locked - but then you are guaranteed overheating with shutdown after 15-20 minutes of driving in this mode.

Test drive the SsangYong Actyon car:

Sportage or Aktion, the KIA brand car will be much better equipped in terms of off-road preparation. The place of the traditional viscous clutch used in the SsangYong Actyon is taken by an electro-hydraulic unit, which allows you to get almost instant responses to changing road conditions. In addition, the KIA Sportage is not prone to overheating of the transmission, which allows it to maintain the advantages of all-wheel drive for a long time when driving in mud or shallow snow. However, despite all the equipment, it is not recommended to move off the asphalt - its ground clearance is only 170 mm, which means getting stuck in the first snow-covered pit, hitting the bottom on low bumps and an unplanned stop in a muddy rut. In addition, the KIA Sportage features bumpers that are no less fashionable than those fitted to the Actyon, resulting in very limited obstacle clearance angles.

Test drive the car KIA Sportage:

Comfort

What can be called the main positive feature of the SsangYong Actyon is the tuning of its chassis, which provides excellent. At city speeds, the Actyon prevents knocks and vibrations even when driving through large bumps such as tram lines and speed bumps. And only with an increase in speed does SsangYong begin to annoy with unpleasant blows when driving through pits, bumps and long waves of asphalt. However, despite such features of suspension tuning, the SsangYong Actyon does not reduce the convenience and accuracy of control - when driving through road joints and large cracks, the steering wheel does not deviate from its initial position by a millimeter.

KIA engineers also wanted to make the Sportage crossover's suspension as powerful as possible - however, they chose a rather controversial path. Like all cars from this brand, the Sportage feels too stiff and lacks comfort. In any riding mode, get ready to feel strong enough impacts and put up with the sounds coming from under the bottom. True, there can be no complaints about the control accuracy of the KIA Sportage - the car obeys the steering wheel much better than its competitors. In general, KIA is perceived as a harmonious car, capable of giving driving pleasure, although it forces you to put up with some inconveniences.

Internal parameters

Practicality

A lot has already been said about design, so there is no point in making a comparison between SsangYong Actyon and KIA Sportage in this area. I just want to say that both Korean crossovers look quite harmonious and have a look that is fully consistent with modern trends. It's just that inside the KIA Sportage is a little more original due to the use of a huge multimedia system screen and a round panel around the gearbox control handle.

It is much more interesting to compare the practicality that cars have - for example, the SsangYong has a considerable trunk size, even with the rear seats fully extended. The indicator reaches 486 liters, but the convenience of loading large objects is somewhat reduced due to the protruding wheel arches. Maybe SsangYong Actyon will surprise us after the transformation of the sofa - but again we have to face disappointment. The total volume of the cargo hold is only 1.3 cubic meters, and a large step forms on the floor of the SsangYong, which will prevent you from transporting fragile items such as a flat screen.

If we consider the KIA Sportage, then at first its owner will be delighted with a huge luggage space of 564 liters, which is distinguished by a low loading height and the absence of protruding wheel arches. However, after the transformation, you experience the same sensations as when folding the rear seats of the SsangYong Actyon. The parameters are completely identical - in KIA you get a compartment of 1.3 cubic meters with a step, which makes it difficult to transport long loads that are not particularly durable.

Spaciousness

The front of the SsangYong is very comfortable to sit on - especially if you don't have a huge shoulder width. The overly narrow Actyon side bolsters spoil the overall impression of the superbly shaped back and cushion, as well as the tactile leather upholstery. On a long journey, this will lead to the fact that people of large build will be forced to constantly push forward, trying to take a break from the constraint that distinguishes the SsangYong Actyon. But there is no need to complain about the back sofa at all - it has an excellent shape and considerable width, allowing three people to sit here, regardless of their size. In addition, it is worth mentioning the considerable headroom and legroom that distinguishes the SsangYong Actyon - it immediately becomes clear why they sacrificed the volume of the luggage compartment.

The crossover from KIA is much more honest in its shortcomings - you immediately feel the far from the optimal shape of the backrest of the front Sportage, and you prepare for inconvenience on a long journey. But otherwise, you will not find any mistakes - with the exception of the rough-looking leather on the seat upholstery, the KIA Sportage is devoid of ergonomic errors. If in SsangYong Actyon you simply note that the rear sofa has an advantage over the luggage compartment, then I would like to thank the KIA engineers for this. The space is so huge that the car is just right to compare, in which you can already throw one leg over the other, even when choosing the most comfortable fit. The only small drawback is the Sportage cushion shape, which is close to convex, but it can be forgiven if you remember the metric dimensions of the rear of the cabin.

The best and fastest

Despite the fact that the dynamics of both cars are at the same level, the KIA Sportage is still more comfortable to drive - provided that you don't pay attention to the suspension stiffness. If we talk about the SsangYong Actyon, then it is better suited for driving on bad roads and even light rough terrain, but in the city it lags significantly behind the KIA Sportage. The crossover from KIA also far surpasses the competitor in terms of capacity - although it does not have a large trunk, but there is plenty of rear seat space here. The only thing in which full parity is observed is that it looks decent both in the KIA Sportage and in the SsangYong Actyon.

I noticed that when I wrote my first review here in 2009, a few more colleagues checked in then here with reviews about the new Sportage, bought at about the same time. I deliberately did not follow, but it seems to me from the impression that by now almost all of them have already sold theirs, I was the only one from that cohort. Maybe not so, but nevertheless I want to check in here again about the back of my typewriter and share a couple of thoughts.

And my impressions are so contradictory that I am surprised at myself. The point is this. For the entire stolnik kilometers, the car, in addition to regular maintenance, did not require any attention to itself. That is, none at all. Not a single breakdown, not a single warning sound, not a single cricket, as they say here, nothing. We sat down and drove off. Today to work for 10 km, tomorrow in Berlin or Bulgaria for 1000. Yes, please, no problem. As if she doesn't exist at all. Like legs. Walk and walk, why pay attention to them. The car is five years old, I remind you. I am the first and only owner.

Although no, there was something. At one point, when the steering wheel was turned, it squealed from the inside like a half-cut pig. Well, I went, pulled up some kind of belt for the next MOT, that's it. By the way, most of the belts were replaced at TO 90,000, as indicated by the manufacturer.

Strengths:

Weak sides:

Review of Kia Sportage 2.0 CVVT 4WD (Kia Sportage) 2007

So, dear colleagues, as I promised, I am writing a review about my new friend. Well, new - this is not entirely true, because the car was born in 2007, but this unit was purchased by me in early summer 2013 with 12,500 km mileage. I understand that many are now making a grimace - they say - you are a complete fool, for 5.5 years such a run cannot be. However, gentlemen, it can. In the event that the only owner is 70 years old, and besides, this is not his only car. In addition, the mileage is confirmed by the ideal condition of the interior, the body, the presence of regular tires, also in perfect condition, and besides (for reassurance, since he himself did not believe in the beginning) diagnostics at the KIA. In addition, you must admit that even if the mileage was twisted, then to values \u200b\u200bwithin 60, well, 50 thousand km, then it is simply stupid. In addition, the mileage is also fully confirmed by the service book (from MOT to MOT 2 - 2.5 thousand km).

As it is now accepted, a little about the choice. So, Almerka has grown old, joints here and there, then suspension, then rust - in short, got enough. The only thing that was not a problem was the engine. 16 years, 300 thousand and nothing like new. In short, after the sale of Nissan needed a car. Of course it's urgent. What I want, I knew for sure, I didn't stagger around the markets. I had been preparing for buying a car for more than six months, I probably shoveled more than one hundred reviews, test drives and other tests. With a budget of 650,000 I stopped at Tushkana, as an alternative I considered Sportyaga, but on condition that it is a Korean assembly, because Slovakia and Russia put me on my guard (again, based on a number of reviews). Why these two? Well, the sedan seemed to have grown by the age of forty, not that I want to offend someone, I mean myself specifically, because I love hunting, fishing, and generally go to nature, that's why I chose a crossover (or SUV, whatever you like). However, at first, the choice fell on the previous generation Outlander (nosed). I liked everything. I got sick. But after reading the reviews, looking at the prices for spare parts and MOT I was upset. Then I "filtered" SGV, RAV-4, Qashqai, Subaru, X-trail, Duster (I wanted to order this new one), and some others. The first two have disappeared simply because of the trunk device and the spare wheel on its door, as well as the cost of TO. You can't go with the door open (and sometimes I need a dacha, you know), you can't go to sleep in the cabin (the seats don't fold into a flat floor) - which is also a disadvantage for me. The X-trail seems to be good, but I sat down, drove - not mine and that's all. The tidy in the center just scared me off - I didn't like the car. Qashqai and Duster (or Duster - it sounds strange in Russian) disappeared for the same reasons. In addition, the Duster is unrealistically small inside, looks large due to the blown arches, and there is simply no trunk. Torpedo resembles a service Grant. I apparently did not specify that I was considering exclusively 4WD, and the spare wheel in the Duster trunk practically abolished. In 2WD still so-so (spare wheel under the bottom). In short, after weighing everything, I came to the conclusion - Tushkan. And the fresher the better. Well, or Sportyaga on the conditions specified above, because this is, in principle, one car. The last one turned up, which was successfully purchased for 600,000 rubles.

Actually, the car. Born in 2007, Korean, came to Russia at the same time, as usual through Finland, purchased by me with a mileage of 12,500 km, the condition is close to ideal (except for a couple of scratches on the bumper, it’s perfect), the equipment knows it, but there is everything, what do you need. I just don’t have a sunroof, cruise control and automatic control of lighting devices, everything else is there (black leather interior (not covers), heated everything except the rear seats, climate, ESP, ABS, airbags in a circle. Maybe I forgot , do not judge strictly. Four-wheel drive of course. 2 liters., 143 hp.

The third generation Sportage is a modern and dynamic crossover with an original, stylish appearance. The car has not only an attractive exterior design, but also good technical equipment, which makes it popular.

The design of the third generation of the model has just become the strongest side of the car. The tightened belt line, coupled with the "muscular" wheel arches give the car a springy dynamics and swiftness. At the same time, the exterior of the car is very original - there is not even a hint of kinship with the soplatform model of the Hyundai brand.

To some extent, the same can be said about another South Korean crossover - SsangYong Actyon. In this car, design and technical components are harmoniously combined to form an optimal balance. With its compact size for an SUV, the Actyon is quite comfortable and spacious. Its interior looks discreetly elegant. True, for SsangYong this crossover became a kind of test of the pen, because before it the company produced only frame SUVs.

Comparing the models, it is worth noting that both cars are available in four-wheel drive, but the basic versions are only driven by the front axle. At the same time, the 4x4 scheme is implemented identically for both cars: an electronically controlled multi-plate clutch is installed here, located in the rear wheel drive. Moving evenly on a flat surface with a constant grip index, the front axle receives all the moment. But, as soon as the grip of the wheels with the road becomes uneven, part of the moment is redistributed to the rear axle. Currently, such a scheme is the most common in the class of urban crossovers. Kia is equipped with a Magna Powertrain clutch, SsangYong has this part made by GKN.

The driver can forcefully lock the interwheel clutch. This is done by pressing the "Lock" button while driving at a speed not exceeding 40 km / h. When the set speed threshold is exceeded, the electronics re-enters into action, dividing the moment between the axles, based on the specific situation on the road.

Both Sportage and Actyon have an uphill start assist system in their arsenal, but Kia also has a system that helps when descending a hill. It's fair to say that in rough terrain, Kia's electronics system works better and more accurately. True, Actyon does not cause any particular complaints. The cars have a similar length, but the base is slightly larger for the SsangYong. Despite this, the Actyon has the best geometric flotation. This is facilitated by the angles of arrival, ground clearance and large suspension travels.

When evaluating the interior of the cars, the greatest number of differences can be noted.

Kia sportage

The SsangYong Actyon looks less defiant inside than the Sportage. But the car cannot be denied the harmony of the interior - the fact that the design was worked by Giorgetto Giugiaro - a recognized car designer from Italy. The performance is more upsetting - hard plastic, inaccurately fitted panels, buttons and levers wobbling in the sockets. The climate control algorithm with three washers is also disappointing. The monochrome display with orange backlighting will not appeal to everyone.

SsangYong Actyon

The Actyon has the same number of steering column adjustments as the Kia Sportage, but the steering wheel is slightly larger. The ceiling is noticeably higher, and therefore the driver's seat rises higher than in the Kia. Considering the much slender A-pillars, the Actyon's visibility is nearly perfect. The backrests of the rear row seats are tilt adjustable and can be folded into a flat floor. Kia is an outsider in this respect.

Sportage

Actyon

When driving on free city streets, an athlete awakens in the Sportage: a sharp and moderately informative steering wheel, a small turning radius. However, racing ambitions are quickly dispelled by sluggish dynamics and a brooding “automatic” equipped with a manual switch. Gasoline engine with a capacity of 150 hp without enthusiasm, it accelerates the car at the bottom, and having reached 4000 rpm, its roar begins to fill the interior, despite good noise isolation. It is not recommended to move off-road - short-travel suspensions can lead to the separation of the bumper aprons and the plastic bottom pan. A very light clearance of 172 mm will allow you to move only on roads with a hint of light off-road.

The situation with the SsangYong Actyon is the opposite: the car has proven itself to be quite good for its status as an urban crossover, a "crook". The suspension moves of the car give the driver of this Korean much more options. The permeability of Actyon encourages deeds on virgin soil. After all, on this car it is not so scary to kiss with the bottom - an impressive metal subframe peeps out from under the front bumper. The character of the modernized 2-liter turbodiesel Mercedes makes you adapt. The fact is that the motor produces a maximum 360 Nm in a very small interval of revolutions. To get good acceleration from a standstill, you will have to spin the engine up to 2200 rpm and only then release the clutch. Before this indicator of the tachometer, the engine fiddles, but after it an explosive pick-up is felt, which, however, disappears already at 4000 rpm, as if by a cutoff.

Kia Sportage is presented on the domestic market in 12 versions, including full or front-wheel drive, 5- or 6-speed "mechanics" or with a 6-speed "automatic". The price of the Kia Sportage starts at 799,999 rubles. The car is equipped with a base 150-horsepower gasoline engine or diesels from 115 to 184 horsepower. In addition, Kia has in stock a number of options not available to owners of other Korean cars: keyless access to the salon, navigation and a rear-view camera, and a panoramic roof. But a leather steering wheel, music control on the steering wheel, parking sensors and a hatch in the rear sofa can also offer a few versions of SsangYong, prices for which start at 699,000 rubles. All versions of the Sportage have foglights with cornering lights. For SsangYong, foglights are the lot of expensive equipment.

• Download SsangYong Actyon Full Specification Brochure
• Download the Kia Sportage trims and features brochure

In general, the difference in price of the order of 100 thousand between similar trim levels of SsangYong Actyon and Kia Sportage is quite explainable by the quality of workmanship, careful study of ergonomics and the development of the service network. Sportage is noticeably more loyal to the driver, this car is easier to drive, but Actyon is the most affordable crossover in terms of cost, not counting the domestic Niva and.

Presented

I remember that the first Sportage, which appeared in September 1993, was built according to the classic off-road canons: using a supporting frame and a reduction gear in the transmission. In 2004, the model evolved. Real cross-country ability by that time was of little interest to anyone. The Sportage was stripped of the frame, and the all-wheel drive was implemented through a viscous coupling in the rear wheel drive. By and large, a significant drawback of the second generation Kia Sportage was only an inexpressive appearance. The design of the current generation of the model, on the contrary, has become a strong point of the car. Tightened waistline, "muscular" wheel arches - well, a true bodybuilder! And that, the ability to show off is also a sport. In this, Sportage lives up to the fashion name. Moreover, its exterior is so distinctive that there is no hint of kinship with the co-platform from the Hyundai camp.

For SsangYong, things began to improve quite recently, after moving under the wing of the Indian Mahindra & Mahindra. The Koreans finally managed to complete the C200 project, which started back in the late nineties at the initiative of Daewoo specialists. The first frameless crossover in the history of the brand appeared to the world under the already well-known name Korando, but for Russia it was renamed Actyon.

For SsangYong, the novelty has become a kind of test of the pen, because before that the company produced exclusively frame SUVs. Other models, Rexton and Kyron, are assembled at the Sollers plant in Naberezhnye Chelny, but the Actyon screwdriver assembly has started at the new Sollers-Far East plant. The production capacity of the enterprise is 30 thousand cars a year, but the Sollers management is cautious - it plans to assemble 10 thousand Actyons a year, of which more than half is equipped with automatic transmissions.

Full speed ahead!

Both cars are available to customers in four-wheel drive, but the basic versions, as usual, are front-wheel drive. The notorious 4x4 scheme for both is implemented identically: with an electronically controlled multi-plate clutch in the rear wheel drive, which works without preload. When driving evenly on a level surface with a constant coefficient of traction, all the moment is transferred to the front axle. When at least one of the conditions changes, part of the torque is redistributed back. This is by far the most common drive circuit in the class. Kia Sportage is equipped with a Magna Powertrain clutch, SsangYong has a GKN clutch.

The interwheel clutch can be forcibly locked at speeds up to 40 km / h for both vehicles if the driver, for example, has to overcome an area with difficult terrain or surface. When this speed threshold is exceeded, the electronics again begins to divide the moment between the axles based on the road situation. Both the Kia Sportage and SsangYong Actyon have a hill start assist system, but Sportage also has a hill descent assist (DBC) system. Subjectively, in rough terrain, Kia's electronics are faster and more adequate. However, Actyon did not hit the dirt with a bumper. The length of the cars is the same, and the base is longer for SsangYong. Despite this, the Actyon has better geometric cross-country ability: a little more entry and exit angles, but, most importantly, more ground clearance.

Looked

The owners of Kia Sportage pay for the "terrible power of beauty" with poor visibility. A-pillars are wide and heavily piled back. The quality of the finishing materials in the cabin is decent. There are no complaints about the adjustment ranges of the front seats and the steering column. Yes, and the decision of the stepped layout of the dashboard pleased: the location of the vernier and buttons is instantly remembered at an intuitive level, but the touch screen display still lacks a sun visor - it glares a lot. But there is standard navigation (though not Russified), and the rear-view camera, the image from which is projected onto the display when the reverse gear is turned on, is installed at a very good angle. Usually, when you go back “by instruments”, you can see only a small area behind the car. In the case of the Kia Sportage, the horizon line is visible, and a not too wide angle of the lens will allow, for example, to make out an approaching car in advance - it is convenient to leave a tight yard, where it is more difficult to turn around than to reverse.

SsangYong Actyon does not look as defiant as the Sportage, but it is very harmonious - this is not surprising, because maestro Giugiaro pored over the design. The interior is much less pretentious, and against the background of the "fellow countryman" it still gives not the best tactile sensations: the plastic is hard, the panels are not neatly fitted, the buttons and levers are loose in their nests. The intricate climate control algorithm with three washers also disappointed, two of which have automatic mode. Most manufacturers only need two verniers and one Auto button. A monochrome display with bright orange backlighting is in front of your eyes. The steering column ranges are the same as the Kia Sportage, but the steering wheel is slightly larger. The ceiling is noticeably higher, and the driver's seat can be raised higher than in the Kia. Together with the slender roof pillars, the Actyon's visibility is impeccable. The cabin, filled with all kinds of niches and bag hooks, is a little more spacious than the competitor's. The rear seat backs are tilt-adjustable and fold down into a flat floor. Kia is an outsider in these parameters.

Ride

During urban outings in the Kia Sportage, an athlete wakes up again: the steering wheel is sharp and moderately informative, the turning radius is only 5.3 m, the rolls are minimal, and the reactions to the pedals are instantaneous. At the same time, there is no nervousness in driving, except for excessive sensitivity to ruts. But racing ambitions were quickly dispelled by sluggish dynamics and a brooding “automatic” with a manual shift function. The 150-horsepower Theta II gasoline engine accelerates the car at low levels without enthusiasm, and after 4000 rpm its annoying rumble fills the interior, despite the seemingly good noise isolation. Driving off-road is scary - short-travel suspensions make you worry about bumper aprons and plastic bottom trays. The clearance is small - only 172 mm. It is enough for hanging the front end over the curb or driving on light off-road.

With the SsangYong Actyon, the opposite is true: the car proved to be an unimportant citizen, but it turned out to be a "rogue". Like the Sportage, the Actyon is equipped with a Lock function, which locks the center coupling at speeds up to 40 km / h, but the suspension travels provide much more freedom. Such cross-country ability even encourages to polish on virgin soil. And it's not so scary to kiss the bottom - a massive subframe confidently peeps out from under the front bumper, albeit slightly nibbled by rust.

Disappointed with the tandem of the engine and manual transmission. The spirited character of the modernized Mercedes 2-liter eXDi200 turbodiesel forces you to adapt. The motor produces a maximum 360 Nm in a small rev range. In fact, to get decent acceleration from a standstill, you must first turn the engine up to 2200 rpm and only then release the clutch pedal. Up to this point, the motor is frankly hackneyed, but after that you feel an explosive pick-up, which completely dissipates already by 4000 rpm, as if by a cut-off. The short gears characteristic of the diesel do not pose any particular problems, except for the ultra-short first. It is, apparently, designed to be an alternative to the "lowered", which is why it is not easy to cope with the car in traffic jams - Actyon strives to kick up.

Asked the price

Kia Sportage is assembled at factories in Korea, Slovakia and the Kaliningrad Avtotor. The model is presented on our market in 12 versions with all-wheel or front-wheel drive, 5- or 6-speed "mechanics" or with a 6-range "automatic". 115-, 136- and 184-horsepower diesels are offered as an alternative to the base 150 hp gasoline engine. Prices for Sportage range from 859,900 to 1,459,900 rubles.

The SsangYong Actyon of the Russian assembly has only seven versions. The distribution of additional options by configuration is similar, but there are some nuances. For example, the initial versions of the Actyon are equipped not with electric, but with a power steering, while the steering column is only adjustable in tilt. In the basic version of the Sportage, by the way, there is no steering column adjustment for reach either. In addition to the standard ABS and frontal airbags, from mid-range side airbags and curtain airbags, as well as active head restraints with rollover sensors, are both available. Kia Sportage, starting with the Luxe configuration (Elegance in the case of SsangYong), is also equipped with stability control systems and assistance when descending from the mountain.

Of course, Kia has a number of luxury options that are not available to fans of another Korean brand: for example, keyless access to the salon, navigation with a rear-view camera, panoramic roof or a regular subwoofer. However, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, parking sensors and a sunroof can also offer the SsangYong.

The most affordable Sportage with “automatic” will cost 969,900 rubles. SsangYong Actyon with automatic transmission is offered for 889,000 rubles. Prices for the gasoline-powered Actyon are still unknown.

Outcome

Kia Sportage got prettier, grew in size, flooded with fashionable options and, as a result, went up in price. The SsangYong Actyon has taken the place of the previous generation Sportage and has every chance of surpassing its success. The difference in price between comparable trim levels Kia Sportage and SsangYong Actyon is much less than the difference in the quality of performance, the level of ergonomics and the prevalence of the service network. Sportage is more loyal to the driver, it is easier to drive it in various modes of operation, but Actyon at a price of 829,000 rubles. risks becoming the most affordable crossover in our market, at least before the appearance of Renault Duster.

In 2011, the slender ranks of mid-size and most sought-after SUVs were joined by two interesting players - the Kia Sportage and the new generation Ssang Yong Actyon. And these are not just classmates and natives of the same Korean land, they have a lot in common, so to speak, in terms of market fate. They have retained their names since the era when both cars were classic jeeps, that is, on a frame chassis, with a continuous rear axle and a transfer case with a reduction gear. Perhaps the Sportage moved into the class of modern SUVs earlier, presenting itself as the second generation, while the Actyon has embarked on the civilian crossover path just now. In the spirit of the times, cars are offered with automatic all-wheel drive or only front-wheel drive, with different types of engines and gearboxes, and the total number of trim levels for each is over ten! The latter circumstance made it difficult to adequately select versions for a comparative test, besides, gasoline Actyons will appear later. Hence, a completely different pair: New Sportage front-wheel drive, with a gasoline engine and automatic transmission, while New Actyon is all-wheel drive, with a diesel engine in its more powerful version and "mechanics". But in terms of equipment, both are in medium versions (Luxe and Elegance) and are close in price - 1,030 and 1,014 thousand rubles, respectively.

That is, with a similar cost of these versions, we see two crossovers with different power parts. It is for the better - two consumer ideologies can be immediately appreciated. At the same time, there remains an opportunity to taste their individuality: for example, if the gasoline engine of Kia for its volume is in the typical for the present times limits - 150 forces, then the diesel engine of Ssang Yong with two liters in this case gives out super parameters - 175 forces!

And yet I want to start with appearancewhere there is one common characteristic detail - the absence of third side windows, as in some hatchbacks. Otherwise, the complete opposite, as if the machines were created "in spite" of each other. New Sportage - this is a deliberately fighting style, which was not at all inherent in previous models. Now the name is more than justified: a bold dynamic silhouette with pointed edges, a slanting predatory cladding, and the high line of the sill with the "counter-slope" of the rear windows only intensifies the aggression. It seems that this crossover has an irrepressible temperament and has a sporty character, and most importantly, it cannot be confused with anyone, and this is a great achievement of the Korean brand.

And here is the debut Actyon in the class of "passenger" SUVs, it turned out to be purely outwardly cautious - the exterior was not particularly noticeable, just in the spirit of the previous models of its opponent. And this is all the more surprising since it was the former, frame Action that looked, albeit a little strange, but very charismatic. And now, with the loss of real jeepers' paraphernalia, the car seemed to be shy and went into a neutral image - combed, sleek and generally not catchy. More was expected from the original Korean style legislators.

Doors Sportage close not as exquisitely as we would like, but behind them you plunge into an interesting modern interiorTasteful, ergonomically designed with quality finishes. Here even the armchairs are not only comfortable due to tight hugs, but beautiful in shape and texture, with inserts and stitching. Before your eyes there is a bright informative and “full-fledged” instrument cluster, a steering wheel is pleasant to grip in your hands, and a stepped console with a high inclined tunnel and narrowed windows really enhance the feeling of drive and security, if not permissiveness. Korean auto standards have taken a decisive step forward! The wide A-pillars and limited "view" through the small rear window interfere with the view in the city, but large side mirrors save the space - the space coverage through them is quite decent.

Actyon inside not to say that from the category of faceless, but his interior with all the efforts of the designers, it looks "tight-fisted" - rustic finishing materials, boring devices, an unremarkable center console. Although in terms of ergonomics, everything is normal, including climate control is entrusted to the traditional, but comfortable three round handles, the clarity of which cannot be found fault with. But, again, it is surprising that if the cruise control is already in the database, there is no separate climate control, even in the top versions!

By reserve space for rear passengers both crossovers give no reason to be discouraged - there is where to arrange legs even for tall people, moreover, there is no longitudinal adjustment of the pillows in both cases. The rear seat cushions are generally "stationary", they do not transform in any way, only the backrests fold, which are simply and quickly stacked on top.

However, there are differences in the organization of the rear space. "Support" places at Sportage slightly higher above the floor and in general they are slightly more comfortable in profile, however, the backs fit, though flush with the boot floor, but with an inclination, and different for the halves. Actyon in this sense it is more accurate: the backrests here lie in an absolute plane with the boot floor, in addition, unlike Sportage they are adjustable tilt, so that the rear passengers are given more room to "maneuver". Themselves luggage compartments because of the high floor (under which there are full-size spare wheels) and the sloping stern, they do not qualify for the title of "container ships", although Actyon has a relatively lower loading height and therefore looks a little more comfortable and roomy.

As a lightweight instance, gasoline Sportage 2WD turned out to be quite quick. It fails to confirm its "armor-piercing" appearance with the same acceleration, besides, this engine comes to life only after 3000 rpm, and yet the dynamics out of the question. Machine quite agile and "smart", its six stages optimally realize the power of the engine, which, moreover, in the case of manual mode, honestly turns to the end of the scale almost without loss of "pressure".

In standard mode, there are no surprises either: you drive calmly - everything works smoothly and quietly, and the desire for active driving is not "killed" by early upward transitions and large differences in steps, as was the case with the previous Korean automatic transmissions. Although the steering wheel is slightly “out of tune” in terms of effort, especially at high speed, when you expect lead hardness from it, its actions are nevertheless accurate, fast, and informative. In general, in the city and beyond, the Sportage behaves like a normal passenger car with front-wheel drive, and what exactly has - at its height, decent resistance to roll and swing is visible. But what is strange is the tendency to "yaw" at high speeds. We have to hold the steering wheel harder and steer! Perhaps this is the machinations of soft winter tires.

In part comfort more pleasant surprises: the noise level, both aerodynamic and "technical", turned out to be low, there are no obtrusive intonations. And the chassis is quite loyal to our petty sloppiness: it swallows typical potholes with soft elasticity and without any special cramps in the body, but it is better to go around rough pits - their energy intensity is not enough to extinguish viscously.

Actyon at first it even scares you with its unbridled temper: the reaction to the gas pedal is sharp, and the working stroke of the clutch is short, the car literally tears out from under itself, like an obstinate stallion. And something, he really has an abundance of strength: after 2000 rpm, such a flow of power begins that many crossovers with gasoline "fours" have to stand at attention - Actyon very impressive with its explosive dynamics... But! The fact of the matter is that it is explosive. The burst of energy occurs in a short interval - already at 4000 rpm, the superdiesel wilts and then does not bring pleasure from acceleration. It is no coincidence that the absolute acceleration figures do not differ much from the "enemy". But the saddest thing is that at the bottom he is a recluse - there is a thrust, but there is no accelerating tone up to 2000, moreover, “sharp” pedal settings require more precise manipulations.

Therefore, in a cramped city with such a diesel engine is paired even with a fairly clear 6-speed manual gearbox some may find it uncomfortable - Actyon requires a wide range of actions. And on country roads, that is, at high speeds, he really feels free and at ease: he does not react to climbs, in most cases there is no need to switch down for maneuvers, and the need for emergency overtaking with "lumbago" is also easy. In addition, despite some "heel" and a delay in reactions to the steering wheel with not the most intelligible "electric force", in terms of directional stability, imbalances are not observed. In the corners, the car takes a little, but on straight lines everything is firm. Here, perhaps, summer tires with "road" tread played a positive role.

True, these Korean tires on the asphalt hum exactly like the AN-24 turboprop, and this hum is more intrusive the higher the speed. In general, noise protection is not the strongest point. Actyon... You can hear the engine at acceleration, and the work of the suspension on potholes, and some "chirps" are heard in the cabin. The chassis as a whole copes well with bumpy roads, especially at low and medium speeds, energy intensity is enough, but at speed you do not get the pleasure of driving through potholes and holes.

Seek revelations off-road in this case, too, it is not necessary, besides, the cars for this are in unequal configurations, but we did not refuse to move “on the bank” to check at least geometric cross-country ability. As expected Sportage with very short moves, he quickly capitulated - a seemingly small bump, and wheels in the air. Have Actyon the suspension is slightly "longer", but this did not prevent him from "swinging" on a completely harmless diagonal. We block the clutch, but there are still no shifts, grinds the clay with unloaded wheels. Here, at least electronic inter-wheel locks would be just right, but those are not provided.

The new Sportage is a hip car, almost a major, with mostly urban habitat. And no matter how treacherous it sounds in relation to SUVs, even front-wheel drive suits it very well. The new Action is somewhat more utilitarian, and in a broad sense, and given the lower cost, it makes sense to take this car in the all-wheel drive version, especially if it suits not the top-end, but also not sickly, 149-horsepower version of the diesel engine.