 
by Keith Burton Okay, I know that you probably haven't shopped at Kia for a new SUV. If you haven't, you are missing out on a good thing. The 2007 Kia Sorento should be on every family's list if you are looking for an affordable, well-equipped and fun SUV. This Korean automaker has made huge strides in building new vehicles and Sorento certainly competes well in the segment. After spending a couple of weeks in the Sorento, I
find little that I don't like. Most people have come to know Kia as a
manufacturer that makes cheap vehicles. But that is not the case now. This
company, a division of Hyundai, has moved well ahead of many others and
its vehicle lineup, including the Sorento, reflect vehicles that can
compete easily with some of the better known brands. The Sorento comes in as a nice-looking SUV with lots
of room, comfortable seating, good power and more at a price point that is
substantially less than some other manufacturers. What it is though, is
that it is not cheaply constructed. The fit and finish, choice of
materials and design are right on target. The enhanced interior is all about comfort and style, with impressive features like a premium sound system with MP3 playback capability. For added comfort, the available Luxury Package includes leather, heated front seats and automatic temperature control.
On the road, the Kia steering and rides remarkably well. There is little pitching over road surfaces and the ride feels nicely damped, even over rough roads. Steering feel is also a surprise. It is light but not too light, and it communicates the road surfaces without being too vague. Tracking on the Interstate is also good. Power, from the 3.8 liter engine is also terrific with sub-8 second 0-60 times, which means getting out into traffic or towing a boat is a no brainer. The Sorento will easily tow up to a 5,000 pound trailer, which is good for this class of mid-size SUVs. I especially liked the 5-speed automatic with a manumatic shifter. The transmission is smooth and you can select the gear you want if you want to be sporty. Interior comfort is also very good and the look is
not bad either. The seats easily accommodate large people
As a true 4x4, you get a push button system and includes a low range. While I wouldn't call the Sorento a true off-roader in the Hummer class, it is still a capable off-road choice for light offroading, and certainly surefooted in snow. Base price for a fairly well equipped Sorento start at around $20,000. Well equipped with leather tops out near $27,000. Stylish, rugged and roomy. It's easy to see why the Sorento is a great value and truly scaring some of the competition that offer much of the same features and a substantially greater price. Key Points § Nicely Styled, upscale appearance inside and out § Luxury touches affordable, with leather § Easy to use accessory controls § Very sprightly performance § Smooth ride, but not a handler § Roomy interior with excellent fit and finish § Nice looking plastics, surprising actually § Nice size for urban SUV § Light steering § Easy 4x4 system § Useful third row seating § Simple to use climate and radio controls § Real 4x4 capability § Strong performance § Tows 5,000 lbs. § 17-22 mpg
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An
Affordable, Well-Built SUV for the Rest of US
Advanced
engineering including five airbags, anti-lock brakes and electronic
stability control, helped Sorento earn the five-star crash safety rating
in all four categories, from the National Highway Safety Administration (NHTSA).
and I particularly noted that the bottom cushion extends far enough
forward to support the legs. Some other SUV's, including some premium
versions from well-known manufacturers, have lower seat cushions that do
not come out far enough. There are a few areas where the choice of texture
on the plastic could be better, but not so much that it is off-putting.
What is evident is that Kia's designers have heard from their customers,
and for the most part, the interior is quite good, better than a Chevy
Trailblazer.
While
the Sorento should be luxurious enough from most people, you don't get a
rear view camera, or heated-and cooled seats, or a gee-wiz navigation
system. But your do get a vehicle that is simple to operate, has an
excellent air-conditioning system and a strong-sounding radio. And you
don't have to take out the owner's manual to figure any of this stuff out.
There is a lot to be said for a vehicle that is easy to operate, and this
is one of them.