Kia wants to appeal to your typical mid-size SUV buyer with the facelifted Sorento. It was presented at the end of 2017, during the Los Angeles Auto Show, and half a year later, it went on sale in the United States.
For the base L grade, customers have to pay at least $25,290. In return, they’ll get standard 7-inch infotainment with smartphone integration, reversing camera and seating for up to 7 occupants. The third row, which can only be accessed on the passenger side, is cramped for adults, ConsumerReports noted in their review.
Besides the poor rear visibility, there aren’t many downsides to owning the latest Sorento, apparently. That’s if we don’t take into consideration the fact that its platform-sharing sibling, the Hyundai Santa Fe, is already in its fourth generation and looks better than ever. But that’s a different topic, so let’s see what its strong points are, according to the reviewer: good driving position, secure handling and well-weighted steering.
Also, there’s sufficient power, even with the base engine, the 185 horsepower (188 PS / 138 kW) 2.4-liter inline-four, which replaces the turbo’d 2.0. Nonetheless, the 3.3-liter V6 GDI is the better choice, with its 290 hp (294 PS / 216 kW) and smooth-shifting 8-speed automatic transmission.
Despite the generous size, the 2019 Sorento’s turning circle is good. This means that parking and doing a three-point turn doesn’t require much effort.
The standard safety features are a praised touch. The carmaker’s website reveals that even the most basic model features Vehicle Stability Management, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control, Electronic Brake-Force Distribution, Brake Assist, Hill Start Assist and Tire Pressure Monitoring.