New Sportage is on the way - On the road

The range starts with the 140bhp 2.0-litre petrol, which gets to 62mph in 11.3sec and goes on to 109mph. The 173bhp 2.7-litre V6 automatic is smooth and offers a bit more power but it’s no flier, with a 0-62mph time of 10.5sec and a top speed of 112mph. The 110bhp 2.0-litre turbodiesel is likely to be the best bet, with 181lb ft of pull – more than enough strength to propel the Sportage along off-road tracks and muddy fields. However, it takes a leisurely 13.8sec to accelerate to 62mph and has a maximum speed of 104mph.

Bumps can be felt because the suspension is firm, but the ride is generally comfortable. The steering is vague and body lean is noticeable in corners. However, the four-wheel-drive system, which sends power to the front wheels in normal driving, can detect when traction is needed and switch drive to all four wheels. There’s also a button to lock it in permanent four-wheel-drive mode for off-roading.

Wind and road noise is well suppressed at motorway speeds, despite the large tyres and roof rails. The diesel engine is coarse at start-up and when extended but the rest of the time it blends into the background. The V6 is generally smooth but noisy at higher revs.