2017 Kia Sorento Review

2017 Kia Sorento - Kia's affordable midsize crossover has plenty to offer.

By: Mark Bilek

Kia's midsize crossover offering is called Sorento. It's offered as a 4-door wagon with five- or seven-passenger seating and front- or all-wheel drive. It was completely redesigned last year and competes with vehicles like the Ford Explorer, Hyundai Santa Fe, Mazda CX-9, Nissan Pathfinder, Subaru Forester and Toyota Highlander. New for 2017 are the addition of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support and available automatic emergency braking.

Five trim levels are offered: L, LX, EX, SX, and SX Limited. L is five passengers only, while the other trims can be had in seven-passenger configuration. L and LX come with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder that makes 185 horsepower. EX gets a turbocharged 2.0-liter four rated at 240 horsepower. Optional on the LX and EX and standard on the SX is a 290-horsepower 3.3-liter V6. All come with a six-speed automatic transmission. Towing capacity on front-drive models is 3500 pounds and 5000 pounds on all-wheel-drive models.

Standard safety features include antilock brakes, stability and traction control and dual-front, front-side and curtain side airbags. All but the L and LX come standard with rear-view camera. Available safety features include rear-parking sensors, blind-spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-departure warning and forward collision mitigation.

Prices start as low as $25,600 and climb to $44,100 for the SX Limited. All Sorentos have an $895 destination charge and are assembled in the United States.

The engine of choice in Sorento is the smooth and refined V6. The base four just doesn't have enough punch to motivate a loaded Sorento and the turbo four isn't as smooth or refined as it should be. The V6 provides good acceleration from a standstill, pushing the Sorento from 0 to 60 mph in about 7.5 seconds. Another plus of the V6 is outstanding passing response at highway speeds. At slow speeds, the six-speed automatic shifts sloppily from first to second gear but is otherwise unobtrusive.

Sorento's all-wheel-drive system does not have a low range and is not intended for extreme off-road use. Rather, it's a competent system suited to assist in traction on slippery roads or mild trails. Ground clearance is also an issue, as the Sorento doesn't offer much more than a typical sedan.

The all-wheel-drive V6 is EPA rated at 17 mpg city and 23 mpg highway. Those numbers lag behind most competitors, notably the Toyota Highlander and Subaru Forester. Real-world fuel economy numbers depend greatly on the type of driving expected. Spend a lot of time grocery getting or kiddie car pooling and you might see 20 mpg overall. If your commute extends to some gentle highway cruising, you might average 24 mpg overall.

The experience behind the wheel of the Sorento is greatly affected by the trim level. Base models have 17-inch wheels and somewhat flaccid suspension and steering settings. Opt for the EX or higher and you get 19-inch wheels and a revised steering setup that yield rewarding handling characteristics and a sporty feel behind the wheel.

All Sorentos ride comfortably and have good composure on rough road surfaces. Another Sorento plus is the quiet passenger compartment. Wind rush and road rumble are nicely quelled and the engines only intrude in hard acceleration.

Sorento's interior is contemporary if a bit businesslike. Materials are appropriate for the class and up-level models feature lots of soft-touch surfaces and chrome surrounds. Drivers face a large central gauge for speed flanked by ancillary displays. The center stack boasts an available seven-inch touch screen that's large and easy to operate. Climate and auxiliary controls are clearly marked and well placed. Kia's UVO infotainment system is easy to operate and features support for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

Front seats are nicely trimmed and offer good long-haul comfort. Head and leg room are good, if not exceptional. Outward visibility is only fair to the rear thanks to the high beltline and narrow design of the windows. Second-row seats offer class-leading comfort and are adjustable fore-and-aft. The same cannot be said for the optional third-row seats. They are for children only.

Cargo space behind the third-row seats is merely adequate, better if they are folded. Maximum capacity is 73.5 cubic feet - more than most five-passenger crossovers, but short of most seven-passenger models. Interior storage is good with lots of open and covered bins throughout.

Sorento offers an excellent balance of price, comfort, features, and driving dynamics. While It's not the quickest or roomiest midsize crossover offering, it nicely meets the needs of most families. Prices run a wide gamut, so choose your model wisely and be certain to test drive the exact trim you intend to purchase.

Mark Bilek

Mark Bilek is the Senior Director of Communications and Technology for the Chicago Auto Trade Association and the General Manager for DriveChicago.com. He is also responsible for developing and maintaining the Chicago Auto Show Web site.

Mark has been reviewing vehicles for more than two decades. Previously, he was associate publisher at Consumer Guide, where he oversaw publication of Consumer Guide Car & Truck Test, Consumer Guide's Used Car Book, and ConsumerGuide.com. He was also responsible for publication of "Collectible Automobile" and various hardcover automotive titles. In 2001 and 2002 he served as president of a Midwest Automotive Media Association. Mark has appeared on NBC TV, ABC TV, Fox News, WGN and MotorTrend TV as an automotive consultant. He hosts the Drive Chicago radio show on WLS 890 AM and was a regular guest on WGN Radio's Steve & Johnnie show. Mark lives in the northwest suburbs with his wife and three sons.

2017 Kia Sorento Review

2017 Kia Sorento - Kia's affordable midsize crossover has plenty to offer.

Mark Bilek

Find Used Cars in Chicago or Chicago Car Dealers at DriveChicago.com

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