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REVIEW: Kia Sorento finds price tag sweet spot

The latest redesign for the Kia Sorento was more than two years ago, but the 2018 model still has a lot to offer. Minor adjustments to the Sorento’s standard features and an influx of optional features round out the changes made this year.

The latest redesign for the Kia Sorento was more than two years ago, but the 2018 model still has a lot to offer.

Minor adjustments to the Sorento’s standard features and an influx of optional features round out the changes made this year. Available in both five- and seven-seat passenger configurations, the Kia Sorento can haul a big family but still avoids feeling clunky or oversized. Even though Kia is thought of as an economy brand, you get a lot of value – including the generous five-year limited and 10-year powertrain warranties. Keep in mind though, that the Sorento isn’t in the same league as the benchmark vehicles like the Honda Pilot, Mazda CX-9, or Toyota Highlander. The Sorento can’t match these vehicles in terms of refinement or powertrain smoothness.

Design and features

The cabin is well appointed and the interior feels solid and upscale. The Kia Sorento provides a plush and comfortable driving environment with soft-touch plastics, Napa leather options, and heated seats that offer a cooling option in the summer. The third row configuration for the 2018 Kia Sorento is seriously lacking in legroom and therefore not very useful unless you just have kids back there, not to mention that it’s also difficult to get in and out of this utility seat. The third row folds down with straps and the second row is folded down using remote handles in the trunk. There is ample room for cargo but the Sorento still falls behind the competitors for overall space.

Kia’s infotainment system is easy to use and is compatible with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. While there is no control knob, the touchscreen is responsive and highly functional. There is an optional 115-volt electrical power outlet, meaning you can plug in larger electronics such as a laptop or portable gaming console.

The exterior of the Sorento has not changed for this year, and it maintains its wide stance and sculpted contours. It is a handsome choice but the design looks a lot like other “generic” Asian SUVs – this is one area of disappointment in general about the current lineup of SUVs as they all look alike.

Performance and safety

Kia offers a choice of three GDI engines for this model, including a 3.3-litre V-6 engine that provides 290 horsepower at 6,400 r.p.m. and 252 foot-pounds of torque at 5,300 r.p.m. The vehicle comes with a six-speed automatic transmission and provides up to 5,000 pounds of towing capability. Fuel economy for the base model is reported to be 11.2 (litres/100 kilometres) in the city, and 8.3 on the highway. While not as exciting to drive as other crossovers, the Kia Sorento is competent if not a little stiff. There is a pronounced body roll on curvy back roads, but this lends to the Sorento’s relaxed character more so than being a nuisance.

Overall, the handling lacks tactile feel and the cornering is too mushy – even for a larger SUV – so buyers should definitely test drive the vehicle before deciding on the purchase. Either you will like the softer, compliant feel or you won’t.

With regards to safety, The 2018 Kia Sorento was awarded the Top Safety Pick+ designation by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. This was due to major improvements to its headlights, a Superior grade on front crash prevention, as well as a Good score on all crash tests. The available Smart Cruise Control, Blind Spot Detection, Rear Parking Sonars and 360 degree camera monitoring system provide further safety.

The Kia Sorento comes with many trim levels, including the base LX AWD, LX AWD, LX Turbo, LX V6, EX Turbo, EX V6, EX+ V6, SX Turbo, SX V6 or the SXL. While this may seem incredibly complex, you will not be let down by the dazzling array of options Kia offers.

Summary

The 2018 Kia Sorento delivers value for the price. You can add luxury options and maintain a reasonable price point that is more attractive than the competitors. With a starting price of $27,995 that moves up to $47,495, the 2018 Kia Sorento might hit a sweet spot for many, especially considering that Kia has been doing great in recent quality surveys.

Just keep in mind that it doesn’t offer the same level of refinement or performance as the major homerun hitters like the Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, and Mazda CX-9. The Mazda CX-9 in particular is an impressive benchmark vehicle that performs better than the Sorento but with only a minimal price increase.

editor@automotivepress.com