KIA has announced pricing and specifications for the fourth-generation of its best-selling model in the UK, the Sportage crossover, which now has a starting price of £17,995.

And for the first time GT-Line versions add an even more sporty offering to the range with the line-up headed by the First Edition model, priced at £31,645. GT-Line models start at £24,350.

Kia say the new Sportage brings major advances in fuel efficiency, comfort, connectivity, convenience and has been subtly modernised and every model benefits from a more premium look and feel to the interior.

On offer now are four engines and three transmissions with the introduction of a 1.6-litre T-GDi (turbocharged gasoline direct injection) unit and a 7DCT (seven-speed dual-clutch automatic) gearbox, both of which are reserved exclusively for GT-Line.

They join re-engineered 1.6-litre GDi petrol and 1.7- and 2.0-litre turbodiesel power units with improved fuel economy and COreductions of up to 29g/km, which means significantly lower company car tax for the Sportage's loyal legions of business drivers.

The six trim lines are badged 1, 2, 3, 4, GT-Line and First Edition.

All versions powered by the 1.6-litre GDi and 1.7-litre CRDi engines are front-wheel drive, while those powered by the 1.6-litre T-GDi unit and the two 2.0-litre CRDi diesels have all-wheel drive. Four-wheel-drive versions are distinguished by the 'KX' prefix in the model designation - except for GT-Line and First Edition versions

Connectivity and advanced driver aids are what customers expect in any car these days, and Kia say all Sportage models except the entry-level grade have a seven or eight-inch touch-screen satellite navigation system linked to Kia Connected Services with TomTom, providing full European mapping and detailed traffic, speed camera, weather and local services information. Further up the range, Speed Limit Information, Lane Keep Assist, High Beam Assist, Autonomous Emergency Braking and Blind Spot Detection with Rear Cross Traffic Alert are available.