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.
Also Read: 2020 Kia Telluride SUV Is The Largest Kia Ever And Powered By A V6
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.