1997 Kia Sportage Soft Top I Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the Kia Sportage Soft Top I ranges between 1350 to 1453 kg (2976 to 3204 pounds), depending on equipment and specifications. Its maximum permissible weight varies from 1850 to 1930 kg (4078 to 4255 pounds), which includes passengers, cargo, and any additional load. This relatively lightweight SUV balances between sturdy durability and fuel efficiency.

The luggage compartment of the Kia Sportage Soft Top I offers between 247 and 250 liters (8.7 to 8.8 cubic feet) of cargo space with all rear seats upright. When the rear seats are folded down, cargo capacity significantly expands to between 1032 and 1117 liters (36.5 to 39.4 cubic feet), allowing for transportation of larger items or extra gear for trips. This flexibility adds to the utility of the vehicle as a compact SUV.

Yes, the Kia Sportage Soft Top I is generally compatible with standard garage sizes. With a height of 1650 mm (64.9 inches) and width of 1764 mm (69.4 inches), it fits comfortably in most residential garages which typically offer door heights of at least 2100 mm (82.7 inches) and widths around 2400 mm (94.5 inches) or more. Its compact size actually makes parking and storage easier compared to larger SUVs.

At 1764 mm (69.4 inches) wide, the Kia Sportage Soft Top I maintains a balance between interior space and exterior manageability. This width is narrow enough to navigate tight city streets and parking spaces comfortably, while still providing a roomy cabin. It is especially advantageous in urban settings, where tighter lanes and parking spots demand vehicles that are not too wide.

The Kia Sportage Soft Top I is equipped with 7J x 15 size rims paired with 205/70 R15 tires. This tire size offers a solid combination of comfort, grip, and off-road capability suitable for an SUV of this class and generation. The 15-inch rim circumference and the relatively tall tire sidewall help absorb road imperfections and improve traction on various terrains.

Standing at 1650 mm (64.9 inches) tall, the Kia Sportage Soft Top I offers an elevated driving position that aids driver visibility in city traffic as well as on rugged off-road paths. This height also provides sufficient ground clearance to handle minor obstacles and uneven terrain typical for soft-top SUVs, enhancing both utility and comfort without making it too tall to cause stability concerns.

The Kia Sportage Soft Top I was the first generation for the model and debuted in 1997, meaning there was no direct predecessor under the same model name. However, compared to similar SUV or crossover models from the era, this generation was positioned as a compact SUV offering practical dimensions and versatility, making it an accessible option for buyers seeking an SUV with manageable size.

The 1997 Kia Sportage Soft Top I's dimensions (4025 mm length, 1764 mm width, 1650 mm height) place it firmly in the compact SUV category, similar to contemporaries like the Toyota RAV4 First Generation or Ford Escape early models. It generally offers competitive interior space and cargo capacity, though its soft-top roof option distinguishes it by combining SUV utility with an open-air driving experience, a feature not common in many competitors of the time.

The maximum weight capacity of the Kia Sportage Soft Top I ranges from 1850 to 1930 kg (4078 to 4255 pounds). This includes the vehicle's curb weight plus passengers, cargo, and additional load. Having a solid maximum weight ensures the SUV can efficiently handle typical family or recreational activities without compromising safety or performance. It also means that when fully loaded, the suspension and braking systems are designed to operate effectively within this weight range.