The Korean automaker Kia has officially released details about the next generation Sportage SUV, the 2011 Kia Sportage. Sharing the same platform with its compatriot, the Hyundai ix35, the 2010 Sportage looks to have the leg-up on the ix35 in terms of being a little bigger and wider, which should translate into having a roomier interior.

The design for the new Sportage also seems to have benefitted from the supervision of Peter Schreyer, whose previous design work with Audi has seemingly translated into some of the aesthetic design cues that can be noticed in the new Sportage, including sharper curves, and a completely revamped front end that previous Sportage models didn’t come in.

Featuring a fresh, bold, athletic and sporty design; longer, lower and wider than the previous generation model, the new Sportage will offer more space for people and cargo, with improved ride quality thanks to the longer wheelbase; the new Sportage went on sale in mid 2010, with a choice of both diesel and gasoline engines following its debut in March at the Geneva Motor Show.

I hope you like this terrific car as much as I do. I fancy it so much that I've just bought myself one ;-)