Review by Andy Leuterio
Can Kia make a desirable SUV? From the Sorento's credentials and its popularity in the US and European markets, the
answer is "Yes."
Size-wise, the Sorento is at an ambiguous price point in the relatively small SUV playing field. Its P1.38M price tag
makes it more expensive than car-based SUVs like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV 4. However, it's substantially less
than what you'd plunk down for a Mitsubishi Pajero, which rings the cash register at more than two million bucks. At the
same time, it's larger than anything in the small SUV category, but smaller than full-size SUVs like the Pajero and Ford
Expedition. And its truck-based ladder-frame chassis and drivetrain give it serious off-road potential at the expense of
the car-like ride and handling that many people are accustomed to.
In other words, the Sorento is more or less in a class of its own. Its off-road capabilities land it in Jeep Cherokee
territory, but at a price that won't break the bank. Frankly, it's a lot of "real SUV" for the buck. Kia has, on its first try,
come up with a serious, mid-size SUV that's become a hit in many overseas markets.
Much of the Sorento's cutting-edge technologies has European origins. The shock absorbers and self-leveling system are by
Sachs of Germany, the common rail diesel engine technology is by Bosch, the 4x4 hardware is by BorgWarner, and Siemens
supplies a large part of the safety equipment and sensors. On paper, the Sorento already impresses. Our test unit had a V6
gasoline engine, part-time four-wheel drive, double wishbone/5-link coil suspension, and all-disc brakes with ABS and EBD.
The 3.5-liter V6 pumps out a gratifying 195ps and 29.4 kg-m of torque. It revs smoothly and pulls the Sorento with ease.
There's really no replacement for displacement. The 4-speed automatic transmission is also responsive and smooth. I only
wish it had a semi-automatic manual-shift function like the Pajero's.
For those who can't afford a BMW X5, a Sorento might be the way to go. Its imposing style gives it more presence on the
road, yet it's not so large as to be unwieldy. The ladder-frame chassis, heavy-duty suspension, and off-road tires make no
apologies for not providing car-like dynamics.
From the driver's seat, you get the impression of driving a serious off-road vehicle with its numb steering feel, slightly choppy
ride, and sense of serious mass. But it's an easy off-roader to control. The driver's seat is very comfortable, the ergonomics are
close to perfect, and the driving position is conducive to fast cruising at 100kphplus speeds. Throttle response is immediate,
the brakes are strong and give very good pedal feedback, and the steering tracks accurately with just that touch of numbness
courtesy of its off-road tires. This is one of those SUVs you'd feel safe having an accident in. It even merits a 5-star side impact
safety rating from the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
It's easier to think the Sorento comes from the US than from South East Asia. The doors, hood, and tailgate close with a
reassuringly heavy slam - not unlike a Chevrolet Suburban's - and the somber cockpit design avoids the toy-like, minimalist
look of some small SUVs. The aura of substance and durability about this Kia should convince prospective buyers that Kia now
knows how to make very good, and not just affordable, products. Space for five is good, but the backseat won't accommodate
any other packaging tricks besides the
60-40 split seatback.
Still, the unconvincing wood trim and plastic silver accents on the instrument panel detract from the premium feel. However,
the brushed aluminum sections on the steering wheel and shifter are very nice. Some of the buttons and switches - particularly
for the A/C and radio - also need some refinement. There's a little too much shine and rough movement quite in contrast with
the silky controls of a Honda CR-V or Nissan X-Trail.
For the price though, the Sorento offers a lot of bang for the buck. Its off-road capabilities are complemented by a whole suite
of standard features including foglamps, dual airbags, leather upholstery, steering wheel-mounted radio controls, and overhead
multi-info display for temperature, barometer, and altitude. While testing it, I found the Sorento to provide a value-laden, even
exciting driving experience that almost made me feel like Andre Agassi. I still have all of my hair, though!
GRINS
? powerful motor
? rugged chassis
? strong brakes
? precise build quality
? loaded with features
? reasonable price
GRIMACES
? unconvicing "wood" trim
? awkward horn button placement
THE LOWDOWN
A lot of SUV for the buck. Premium 4-wheel feel without the premium price tag.
