Kia Sorento may fail to beat its latest rivals in fuel-efficiency, safety or appearance, but it has definitely won the battle of improvisations in third-generation car models. New models of Ford Territory, Nissan Pathfinder, Toyota Kluger and Hundai Santa Fe overshadowed the previous Sorento models. But, Kia Sorento has magnified the Korean brand and is striding up the Australian sales chart!
Design
It is 4780mm long, 1890mm wide, 1690mm high with a wheelbase of 2780mm (extra 80mm) means extra legroom for all the rear seats. However, it’s 45mm lower than before. Look-wise, it’s a big SUV van with Peter Schreyer era style. The conventional window line with latest N-Platform has inspired the Kia Carnival look launched early 2015!
Interior
Audi A6, A7 and Schreyer had somewhat influenced the Sorento interiors giving a classy feel that can obscure any other contender. Three 12-volt power outlets, two USB outlets, an electronic handbrake equipped central console, bottle holder on every door and cup-holders; available in all the Sorento versions. It’s spacious enough to accommodate seven passengers and luggage in bulk. Just fold the third seat flat for maximum baggage space.
Engine Transmission
Two variants; petrol and diesel engines. The petrol model got 2-WD, 3.3 liters V6 engine 199kW/318Nm port while the diesel model comes with returned version of 2.2 liters 147kW/441Nm turbo diesel engine with 4-cylinders. It’s reputed for six-speed automatic transmission. However, it has recorded for a little high fuel consumption for retuning according to the new emission regulations. Both diesel and petrol engine has a respective thirst of 7.8l and 9.9l for running 100km.
Driving
It is designed to suit the local conditions and preferences – unique shock, spring and sway bar setting. Both Sorento options have engines with abridged cabin noise and tailored setting that challenges the Ford Territory (the decade-long standout performer). It progressed to rack-mounted electric power steering system. It offers better security irrespective of the speed you’re driving.
Kia Sorento is a comfortable ride for a long family trip.
Safety
It has achieved a 5-star ANCAP rating for safety. Earlier, only diesel versions could achieve it. Well, it got 6, i.e. dual front, side airbags for all three rows. Platinum got Platinum features blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, lane departure warning system, and adaptive cruise controls functioning even at a speed of 10km/hr. Sadly, these platinum features cannot be availed in the other variants.
Extra Features
All models got reversing camera, front and back parking sensors. The high-end models include an electric tailgate and leather trim. Platinum comes with diesel engine only, dual-line trim and an electronic sunroof.
List Price of Sorento Variants
| Sorento Si (2WD Petrol Automatic) | $40,990 |
| Sorento SLi (2WD Petrol Automatic) | $45,990 |
| Sorento Si (4WD Diesel Automatic) | $44,490 |
| Sorento SLi (4WD Diesel Automatic) | $49,490 |
| Sorento Platinum (4WD Diesel Automatic) | $55,990 |
Verdict
Even with a hiked price and heavy thirst; Sorento took the entire game to the next level. Finally, the impressive package and 7-year warranty earned it the label of being one of the BEST seven-seat SUVs.