First Drive: 2013 Kia Sorento

The 2014 Kia Sorento is one of the larger models of compact crossover utility vehicles (CUV). Kia appeals to car buyers with relatively low prices, eye-catching modern styles, and cars packed with desirable standard features. The 2014 Sorento is the best-selling model of Kia’s entire lineup. With its sleek, somewhat conservative external design, three trim levels (LX, EX, and SX), and choices between 4- or 6-cylinder engines and front- or all-wheel drive, the Sorento appeals to both active younger singles and small families. The LX and EX trims come standard with five-passenger seating, with an optional 50/50 split folding 3rd row. This seven-seat capacity is standard on the LX V6 and the SX trims.

What’s New

Kia’s 2014 Sorento offers several new features standard, as well as a revamped chassis and exterior design. The base LX model sports standard 17-inch alloy wheels, A/C, keyless entry, the full complement of power accessories, Bluetooth, telematics, and a comprehensive infotainment system with satellite radio, audio jack, and iPod interface. The polished exterior design includes the signature grille and wraparound headlamps seen on all the new Kias, as well as a sleeker, more aggressive profile than earlier models. The Sorento has a dynamic look, with sweeping lines, angled windows, and a rounded nose for an upscale appearance.

Under the Hood
Kia offers three engines on its 2013 Sorento. The 2.4 liter GDI (standard on the EX and optional on the LX) provides 191 horses and 181 lb ft. of torque, giving an EPA estimated fuel rating of 21/30 mpg city/hwy, combined 24 mpg. The more affordable MPI 2.4 liter engine (standard on the LX) offers less powerful acceleration, with 175 hp and 169 lb ft. of torque, and a fuel economy of 21/29 mpg, 24 combined (front wheel drive) and 20/ 26, 22 combined (all-wheel drive). Finally, the significantly more powerful V6 (standard on the SX, optional on other trims) leads its class with 276 horses and 248 lb ft. of torque, making the Sorento very possibly the quickest compact CUV available. As expected with the more powerful engine, fuel efficiency is reduced: the 4-wheel drive gets 18/24 mpg, while the front-wheel drive gets a slightly better 20/26 mpg.

What’s Inside
Although the wheelbase dimensions have not changed, the 2013 Sorento offers more legroom and generous headroom, with 142.5 cu. ft. interior volume in the 5-seater version. The Sorento, like the Rondo, has a third-row seating option, but legroom in the third row is limited, making it best for families with smaller children. The interior cabin is modern, well-thought-out, and ergonomically advanced, and boasts high-quality soft-touch materials.

The 2013 model is also tech-savvy, with several standard occupant-convenience technology features, including one of the most responsive and user-intuitive infotainment systems we’ve tested.

The 2013 Sorento is priced at $24,950 for the base LX, $30,850 for the EX, and $35,850 for the SX, with an additional $1,700 for the optional all-wheel drive. When compared with the Mazda CX9, its closest competitor, the Sorento falls slightly short in 3rd-row seating legroom, but comes out ahead in interior style and comfort. We especially liked the light and spacious feel provided by the optional panoramic sunroof, making the Sorento’s passenger areas feel much less enclosed and gloomy than those of the Mazda CX9. For its price level, the 2013 Kia Sorento is an attractive CUV with an impressive array of standard features and a surprising level of luxury.