The Kia Sportage soared to the top of the sales charts when it was introduced early this year, although it sits in one of the most competitive sectors of the market.
Strong sales of the small SUV have been maintained throughout the year, and the Sportage held third place overall in vehicle sales behind Toyota's Corolla and RAV4 at the end of November.
The fourth-generation Sportage fronted up with distinctive styling and a choice of eight variants. Pricing begins at $35,990 to $54,990.
Inside, the Sportage impresses with high-quality fit and finish as well as soft-touch materials and stylish piano black surfaces.
There are three 2.0-litre petrol front-drive models and five all-wheel-drives with either a 2.4-litre petrol engine or the 2.0-litre version of the torque-rich R Series diesel unit.
The new Sportage also introduced the sports-themed GT Line specification as the new flagship of the range.
The Kia has been one of the sales successes of the year.
Want to know more?
Read our full Kia Sportage review here.
Driven Car of the Year Awards winners
Driven Car of the Year: Mercedes-Benz E-Class
Driven Compact Car of the Year: Holden Spark
Driven Small Car of the Year: Honda Civic
Driven Medium/Large Car of the Year: Skoda Superb
Driven Green Car of the Year: BMW 330e
Driven Luxury Car of the Year: Mercedes Benz E-Class
Driven Performance Car of the Year: BMW M2
Driven Small SUV of the Year: Kia Sportage
Driven Medium SUV of the Year: Volkswagen Tiguan
Driven Large SUV of the Year: Mazda CX-9
Driven Luxury SUV of the Year: Jaguar F-Pace
Driven Commercial Vehicle of the Year: Holden Colorado
Driven Bike of the Year: Yamaha MT-01