One of
the best things about a manufacturer doing an extensive overhaul of a popular
model is what happens in the years of production immediately following the new
edition's release. With all the changes that take place during such a renewal,
the engineers and designers have a chance in the next model years to fine-tune
some of the changes, and address things that got overlooked during the redesign
process. The Kia Sorento
Crossover Utility Vehicle (CUV) had numerous changes for the U.S. 2014 model,
and for 2015 the vehicle continues to receive both fine-tuning to the chassis
and technological tweaks. This makes the Sorento as state-of-the-art as
any vehicle in the class, and a very tempting target for buyers in the
Northeast (especially with winter approaching, when the value of a CUV with
optional all-wheel drive is as clear as ice). When you add the lure of several
different trim levels to choose from and some very well-appointed cabins to
coddle your passengers, the result is a very competitive vehicle in a
hotly-contested class.
The Sorento SX we tested
rides on a 106.3-inch wheelbase, which puts it in the midsize category for SUVs
and allows for three-row seating (although two-row seating is available in
other trim levels). Some trim lines come with a 2.4-liter Inline Four with 191
horsepower, but our SX was endowed with a 3.3-liter V6 engine with 290
horsepower. Both drivetrains are channeled into a six-speed automatic
transmission, and all models are available with either front-wheel or all-wheel
drive. Our tester had the latter drivetrain, which includes a locking center
differential button for when the going gets extra messy. As with all CUVs, the Sorento's driving
dynamic make it feel like a tall sedan more than a sport utility with decent
suspension compliance and good steering response. The Sorento has Electric Motor
Power Steering, and the SX also had the "FlexSteer" system that
allows the driver to tune the steering to one of three modes: Normal, Comfort
and Sport. The unibody construction is sufficiently stout to keep the Sorento quiet at speed, while
delivering a solid feel even over rougher roads. As with others in the class,
handling is closer to sedans as opposed to the SUVs of the past.
Kia has been one of the better
manufacturers in terms of combining the latest touch-screen telemetrics with
traditional knobs and switches to produce a logical, easy-to-master control
suite. The interior of the SX is a great mix of materials that combine with the
comfortable leather seats to give the Sorento a quality feel, and
the second-row seating is likewise a decent place to spend log trips. The third
row is quite reasonable for kids and even works for adults for short stints.
The only trick is getting back to the third row, for access is a bit tight.
The
2015 Kia Sorento SX AWD is
EPA rated 18 MPG city/24 highway and has a base price of $38,300. With freight
and handling, our final sticker came to $39,195.
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