KIA Motors Corporation has released the first official photographs and technical details of its eagerly awaited all-new small SUV, which will make its world premiere at the Paris Motor Show in September.

Called the 'Sportage' - reviving the name of Kia's hugely successful earlier 4x4 model which sold strongly all around the world during the 1990s - the new five-door SUV model is thoroughly modern in every aspect of its design. The four-wheel drive system is fully automatic and standard equipment includes traction control, while ESP (Electronic Stability Program) will be available and every model comes with front, side and curtain airbags.

Longer, wider and higher than the average small SUV, the new five-seater Sportage will offer customers much of the technical sophistication and stylish looks of the popular Sorento but in a smaller package.

The Sportage will be available with a choice of three engines (two-litre and 2.7-litre V6 gasoline, or two-litre diesel), two-wheel or four-wheel drive powertrains, five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmissions (with full auto or manual selection) and two trim/equipment levels. Automatic transmission will be optional with the diesel.