2015 Kia Sorento Limited

The Crossover with All the Answers

2015 Kia Sorento (Courtesy of Kia)

The Sorento has two engines to choose from. The 2.4-L 4-cylinder engine puts down 191 horsepower (3,000 rpm) and 181 lb.-ft. torque (6,300 rpm), while the 3.3-L V6 provides 290 horses (6,400 rpm) and 252 lb.-ft. torque (5,200 rpm). Both engines feature continuously variable valve timing (CVVT), aluminum block and cylinder head, and DOHC with 4 valves per cylinder. The V6 was my engine to drive. Estimated mpg is 18/25.

Inside the Sorento is spacious, but the front seat back rest is a little tight. Great leg room for second row passengers and adequate for third row. 40/20/40 split-folding second row seats is standard across the board, but the third row 50/50 split-folding seats are optional on the base LX. 

The acoustic windshield features a layer of sound absorbing material that helps to provide an exceptionally quiet ride. This material also appears to heighten the sound from the SiriusXM satellite radio. This is part of the UVO (short for “your voice”) Information System with voice command navigation (8-inch display). Quite frankly, the screen was way too small. But it did provide an easy, hands-free way to connect to the vehicle by seamlessly integrating your smartphone through Bluetooth. This system was so easy that even I could understand using my own compatible smartphone. 

The Sorento rightfully competes as a crossover with dimensions of 68.3inches tall, 184.4 inches long, 74.2 inches wide, and has 9.1 cubic feet cargo room behind the third row, but the inside reminds me of a sedan, and the amenities of a luxury sedan. Now everything mentioned in the column is standard on the top-of-the-line Limited. The price is a modest $41,700. 

The premium Nappa leather trimmed seating had features like heating, cooling/ventilation, and driver’s memory. Together with adjustable dual zone automatic temperature control, second-row sunshade, and panoramic sunroof with power shade, they contribute much to the comfort and ambiance. 

Numerous advanced technologies and safety features such as Blind Spot Detection System, Backup Warning System, rear camera display, push button start, and Xenon HID headlights with auto-leveling were tempting features to persuade you to move up the model ladder.

An item that my wife enjoyed the most was the programmable power lift gate. Just push a button on the key fob and Sorento did the rest. Concealed storage beneath the rear cargo floor provided a secure and safe, out of sight place for valuables. 

Sorento’s steering was tight, and it handled well. I found it easy to park; even though 74.2 inches wide, Sorento seemed to snuggle right into a tight place without difficulty. The torque propelled me “quick time” towards my destination whether passing, integrating, or just running off and leaving other vehicles. Sorento has a quiet cabin, and keeps things well lit (even door handles) as you journey in comfort, relaxing in an environment where you are totally in control.

Kia Motors has invested over $1 billion in its manufacturing plant in West Point GA. The Sorento Crossover and certain Optima midsize sedans are currently built at this plant, creating more than 14,000 jobs in the plant and surrounding areas. 

Industry leading warranty
5-year/60,000-mile limited basic warranty
10-year/100,000-mile limited power train warranty
5-year/100,000-mile limited anti perforation warranty
5-year/60,000-mile limited 24-hour roadside assistance

Durhl Caussey writes a car column read around the world. He may be reached at this paper or [email protected].