Kia Sorento

Korean cars once had an image in Australia as cheap and not worth looking at..

But in just a few short years how things have changed.
Kia in particular as a partner with Hyundai.. has streaked ahead and now makes some of the most popular, desirable and value for money cars available.. 

From the luxurious Optima Platinum and Sportage to the vehicle on test here. 

The Sorento CDi SUV.

A powerful 2.2. litre diesel propels the Sorento along the highway in whisper quiet fashion, enjoying a powerful surge when the right foot is planted with determination.  

I averaged about 9 litres per 100 kays on mainly urban driving, on the highway that fell to under seven, not bad for a heavy 4WD.

There's some diesel rattle at idle but it's far from annoying or intrusive.

The Sorento's a stylish beast, set off with 18 inch alloys. 

Kia has resisted the temptation to go for the low roofline of others in its class, and vision all round is excellent.

This is a seven seat model with two seats emerging from the rear cargo floor.They are strictly for children or small adults however.

Night time driving brings its own delights. Soft ambient lighting on the doors and console gives a real luxury feel, as does the Sorento name highlighted with an illuminated scuff plate, and bright red lights in the trailing edge of the front doors make for extra safety.

Some luxury brands make do with just a strip of reflective tape.

The taillights are another Sorento styling key. 

An unusual matt glow from the large and distinctively shaped lenses make sure following traffic is well aware of what's ahead.

Seat comfort is excellent, not too soft or firm, and ride comfort on broken surfaces is among the best in class.

Handling is good through the corners, minimal body roll, but I found little difference in steering input when on any of the three settings, Normal, Comfort and Sport. 

The steering wheel felt vaguely stiff and reluctant to turn off centre for lane changing, but was otherwise okay. 

In a market segment awash with tempting offerings at all price levels the Sorento hits a sweet spot on all counts and should be on your road test list.. It's one impressive vehicle.. 

Sorento sells from mid 30K to 50k for the top of the range models.

Peter Sellen