The relatively few Sportages sold here up to 01 were all made in Korea. So I would assume those earlier models, such as mine, were fitted that way for Korean use(cold winters), and they couldn't be bothered to remove them just for the Philippines. But I would think this part would show up on other exported units from that time as well

And what about the 3 questions from my last post? Any thoughts?

Canuk in d' Philippines

'97 4x4 Sportage DOHC SOLD!
2000 4X4 Grand Sportage long body Turbo SOLD <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/frown.gif" alt="" />
Bought another (standard length) 2000 Turbo Intercooler Diesel auto4X4 smile