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Kia Sorento
Before getting stuck into the Sorento, it's time for a brief legal notice - any resemblance between the subject of this test drive and the Acura MDX is purely co-incidental. All kidding aside, the Sorento does have more than a passing resemblance to the Acura. The jeweled head and taillights adding a sophisticated finishing touch. Looking back at the Sportage Test Drive reminded me just how bad cars once were. Thankfully, the Sorento is as far removed from the Sportage as possible. In all except the basic part-time four-wheel drive system. Here it is better to upgrade to either the EX or the Luxury EX tested as it brings a better full-time four-wheel-drive system - one that operates essentially as a rear driver until the wheels slip at which point, the power is relayed forward without driver intervention. The speed and sensitivity does mean a small and noticeable lag, but nothing to get worked up over.
Under normal circumstances you drive the Sorento in its automatic 4x4 setting. However, if you want to go off-roading, select neutral, switch the selector to low and you now have access to the low range gear-set and your ready to go off-roading.
Power comes from a 3.5-litre double-overhead cam V6 that delivers 195 horsepower and a useful 218 lb-ft of torque at a suitably low 3500 RPM. Generally, the work ethic is lively, with the Sorento pulling strongly from rest and on up through the mid-range. At the top end, it begins to get a little breathless and a little noisy. The electronically controlled four-speed automatic helps matters here as it kicks down to a lower gear when needed and has a decent set of evenly spaced ratios. This combination is also good enough to tow 5,000 pounds.
When you slip behind the wheel of this Sorento you find a pleasant surprise. First of all, you get all the power amenities: locks, windows, mirrors, cruise control, power seats, a great sounding radio and an efficient climate control. Also you find good fit and finish, and the materials: well they are absolutely top notch. There is one exception: this ugly fake wood. It's bad enough that it gives fake wood a bad name. If it were up to me, I would replace the wood with this really nice brushed aluminium trim. I'd put leather all around the steering wheel and you'll end up with a really neat package.
The Sorento rides on a full-ladder frame, double-wishbone front suspension and a multi-link rear design. Generally, the handling is as expected. Certainly, there is a degree of under steer and body roll, but considering the centre of gravity, the Sorento proved to be remarkably predictable through the pylons. Likewise, the four-wheel drive system is fast enough to react that the rear end tends not to over steer.
Climb into the rear of the Sorento and it's pretty much more of the same: plenty of room under the front seat for your toes, abundant legroom and plenty of headroom. Indeed, there is almost enough room in the back to seat three adults. When you come around the back there are more surprises. You get a privacy cover to keep prying eyes off your stuff, 70/30 spilt folding rear seats that gives you a ton of luggage space. You also get some additional storage space under the floor because the spare tire sits under the vehicle behind the rear valence and yes: it is a full-size spare which is a good thing. The only thing you need to watch, if you do go playing in the mud like we have just make sure you keep your pants off the rear bumper when you're reaching in for stuff.
As for comfort, the Sorento is pretty good on the highway. Around town, however, sharp bumps filter back to the passengers, which is a pity. It is as though it needs softer springs for the bumps and firmer damping to control the ensuing body movement. Stopping power comes from a decent set of 4-wheel discs and an anti-lock system. The pedal is firm and the ABS stayed at arm's length in spite of a slippery surface.
You know, when compared to the Sportage, this Sorento has to be considered a quantum improvement. It's got a half decent four-wheel drive system that includes a low range. It's got plenty of room, it's comfortable and the handling: well it's balanced. Best of all, however, it has to be considered somewhat of a bargain, because fully loaded to the devils, this thing tops out at a little over $35,000.
Tire Tally
Performance 3
Ride/ Handling 3
Interior 3.5
Touchy-feely/ Cargo 3.5
Safety 3
Bang for $$ 4
Immediate Competition
Hyundai Santa Fe
Nissan Xterra
Ford Escape
Mazda Tribute
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