The Kia Sorento has proven a popular choice among midsize crossovers, offering that not-too-big, not-too-small size while also being extremely well-equipped for the money. It has plenty of space for five people and their luggage; the optional third-row seat gives added flexibility for thousands less than many competitors.
Coming off of a facelift for 2014, the Sorento gets a few more cosmetic changes for 2015. The grille gets a new look in front, and Kia's UVO voice recognition system and the Infinity sound system no longer require the option of a navigation system.
Starting around $24,000, the LX comes standard with the 2.4-liter 191 horsepower four-cylinder. WIth front-wheel drive, it's rated at 20/27 mpg by the EPA, or 19/25 with the optional all-wheel drive, a marginal improvement for 2015. Like all Sorentos, a six-speed automatic is standard. Included in the base vehicle are Bluetooth hands-free calling, USB inputs, 17-inch alloy wheels, satellite radio, trip computer, steering wheel-mounted controls and a 40/20/40 split-folding rear seat. Options include a 3.3-liter V6 engine with 290 horsepower, the UVO system with a backup camera, automatic headlamps, parking sensors, a third-row seat, rear air conditioning and all-wheel drive.
EX loads the Sorento with standard features and access to optional extras. Standard are the V6 engine, 18-inch wheels, fog lights, automatic headlamps, a thicker front windshield, selectable steering modes, dual-zone automatic climate control, a backup camera, UVO voice recognition, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, multi-function instrument cluster display, interior ambient lighting, 115-volt power outlet, leather upholstery, 8-way power driver's seat and heated front seats. Cooled front seats, memory settings, blind spot warning, auto-dimming rearview mirror, power tailgate, navigation and an Infinity sound system are options.
SX adds appearance features such as 19-inch alloy wheels, chrome tail pipe and other chrome exterior accents. Also included are a panoramic sunroof, rear air conditioning, an 8-inch navigation system with Infinity sound system, blind spot warning system, auto-dimming rearview mirror, power tailgate, power front passenger's seat and cooled front seats.
The SX-L is the most luxurious Sorento, and pretty opulent for any Kia. Chromed 19-inch alloy wheels are standard, as well as self-leveling xenon headlamps, a wood and leather heated steering wheel, Nappa leather upholstery and heated second-row seats.
Ignore the four-cylinder LX -- the V6 doesn't sacrifice much fuel economy while adding 100 horsepower that will be needed if you plan on filling your car with people or luggage. For about $35,000, the Sorento EX adds most of the premium features from the SX while undercutting other seven-seat competitors by several thousand dollars.
