Let's face it: Big crossover SUVs are not objects of lust, mostly due to their reputation as family vehicles. While there are exceptions _ Jeep Grand Cherokees, Range Rovers and Cadillac Escalades to name three _ most are like the 2016 Kia Sorento: just stylish enough to avoid being bland but not exactly exciting. Even a Super Bowl ad starring Pierce Brosnan couldn't move the needle. In fact, it may have only added to the lameness factor.
Of course, this is all perception, for the latest iteration of the Sorento is a decent ride, with a modicum of style, any option you'd care for in a modern vehicle and a driving experience that's firmly middle of the pack. And it's these traits that stand out more than Kia's traditional value: a low price.
In fact, you might be shocked to know that a fully loaded 2016 Kia Sorento I test-drove this week flirted with a price tag of $46,000. Astonishing? Yes, until you look at the competition and realize that finding a comparably equipped competitor could cost even more.
Despite the vehicle's increased length, the overall look is similar to last year's but with more sophistication up front. The 2016 Sorento doesn't seem larger on the outside, despite a wheelbase that's grown by more than three inches. Instead, you'll find the increased length is apparent inside, where a roomy cabin graciously accommodates up to seven passengers and 11 cubic feet of their stuff; 73 cubic feet with the seats folded. While I was never brave enough to try out the third row, the first two rows proved comfortable enough. The front seats are wide, if flat, but provide enough support during a half-day highway drive.
And this car is awash with serious content such as a large panoramic sunroof, leather trim, rear seat sunshades, heated and ventilated front seats, heated steering wheel and a fairly decent 630-watt, 12-speaker Infinity sound system and slick outside mirrors that fold when the car is locked. It's not a new idea, but it still seems novel.
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Kia also has updated its Uvo eServices infotainment system, adding a host of new features, including geo-fencing, speed alert, curfew alert, Google local search and Siri "Eyes Free." While the suite of apps offered is appreciated, the navigation system is annoying. It always reverts to a standardized view, one that provides few details. Yes, you can zoom into a closer, more detailed view, but the system always zooms out again to the featureless view. In addition, like other Kias that I have driven, the Sirius XM satellite radio signal constantly drops, more so than any other automaker.
The Sorento is offered in four ascending trim levels: L, LX, EX and SX Limited. Base L and LX models come with a 185-horsepower double-overhead-cam 2.4-liter engine, while EX and SX Limited come with a new 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine rated at 240 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. Finally, there's also 290-horsepower 3.3-liter V-6 offered on LX, EX, SX and SX Limited trim. All engines mate to a six-speed automatic transmission. Four-cylinder models come with a choice of front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, while V-6 models come only with all-wheel drive.
The test model, an SX Limited V-6, provided the mix of ample power and good fuel economy you'd expect. Kia says the engine can tow up to 5,000 pounds.
Driving experience was fairly refined, if unremarkable. Ride comfort is much better than the outgoing model, although there was still some road noise evident. Body motions are fairly well controlled over pockmarked pavement, and bump absorption is respectable. You would never call the Sorento fun to drive, but it doesn't feel as big as it is, and is more maneuverable than you might expect.
Kia offers a number of electronic safety and driving aids, including electronic stability control, traction control, brake assist, hill-start assist, electronic brake force distribution, anti-lock brakes, roll over mitigation and cornering brake control. In addition, Kia offers new technology previously unavailable on the Sorento, including vehicle stability control, forward collision warning, smart cruise control, blind spot detection, rear cross traffic alert and a handy 360-degree view monitor system.
It adds up to a package that is enticing and competitive, but somehow not quite compelling. For in the end, while I appreciate the vehicle's muscular power, its hefty equipment list, refined manners and updated styling, the Sorento never felt as opulent as its price suggests, nor did it feel particularly engaging to drive.
Instead, it is a good competitor in a class with some great ones.
