Kia Sorento 2010

The introduction of the 2010 Sorento is undeniably reminiscent of the impressive strides Kia has made as an automotive brand in recent times.

The Sorento is a smooth vehicle to drive. The pleasurable driving experience is matched by the Sorento’s exterior, which is undoubtedly more sophisticated than that of previous Kia models. The bonnet, headlights and sidelines make this vehicle appear ultimately sleek and streamlined; however the chrome grill is perhaps not suited to every consumer’s preference.

Aptly, the 2010 model has already begun attracting positive reviews in the competitively-priced SUV market. While it is often broadly conceived that Kia engines are less “powerful” than other makes and models, the Kia Sorento has an engine that really delivers. The car comes in three versions. There is the 2.4L 2WD automatic, that takes regular unleaded. This version supposedly runs 9.2L/100ks and has the highest CO2 emissions. The Sorento is also manufactured in a 2.2L 4WD version, available in automatic or manual, both of which are diesel. Arguably, the manual diesel is perhaps the most preferable option. According to Kia figures, this version of the vehicle can deliver a profound 6.7L/100km. Furthermore, in comparison to the other two versions, the manual diesel version has low CO2 emissions (177g/km), making it a desirable option for environmentally-conscious consumers. While the car weighs just under 2 tonnes (1929kgs) it still delivers a fuel economy comparable with a petrol-fuelled VW Polo (1.4L) and has great torque (422 Nm) allowing it to cruise up hills with velocity and ease.

The Sorento’s transmission is a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic (Sportsmatic) and both have high top gear transmission ratios -favourable for freeway driving and lower fuel consumption. However, unfortunately this 4WD pales in terms of its off-road capabilities. The Sorento is not rigged for any serious off road encounters. While it would definitely satisfy some softer adventurers, the more avid, experienced 4WD adventurers are likely to be left unsatisfied. The suspension is good and will give an easy ride when the car is well loaded in particular although when free of passengers the vehicle is prone to noticeable bumps and bounces. Otherwise, the interior sound is good, providing a quiet ride with low road noise.

The Sorento has a relatively attractive interior layout. The Sorento is a seven-seater car, making it a desirable option for large families. The vehicle is classified as a mid-sized SUV but is not as spacious as some other 7-seaters currently on the market. Furthermore, the distance between the top of the third row seats and the rear of the car is only a few inches, less than ideal in terms of providing head protection in the case of a rear collision. Rear boot space is not great with the third row seats up. However, the boot space is considerable with these rear seats in the down position. For extra storage, the second row seats can also be folded away to provide room for carrying larger items.

The cabin and dash look far more sophisticated than those of the previous model. In fact, the overall modern design, and function of the interior is a significant improvement from the previous Sorento model. While the Sorento is not a luxury car, the interior comprises a sense of sophistication in keeping with the price limitations.

In terms of safety, the Sorento is still yet to receive its ANCAP rating. It is expected that this model will be granted a five star rating (as it has been by Euro NCAP) which will be a big improvement from previous years. Previous Sorento models have often achieved 4 stars. Arguably this is because when tested, the Sorento received full marks in the side impact test at 16/16, but in the front collision test only scored a poor 8.52/16. In terms of safety features, the Sorento incorporates dual front, dual front side and full side curtains, in addition to other standard safety features.

Perhaps the Sorento’s most notorious shortfall is its lack of satellite navigation. Some critics were also concerned about the lack of information with regards to tow capacity, prior to the Sorento’s release. That information has since been clarified, and it may be disappointing to some – 2500kg for the manual and 2000kg for the auto, and therefore a reduced capacity.

The 2010 model is a very attractive option currently available on the market, particularly within its price range. Considering the vehicle’s sleek exterior, diesel efficiency and affordability, the Kia Sorento is a great mid-sized SUV for money-conscious, environmentally aware families. The diesel manual (Si) costs around $39,990 and is so well-equipped that it is now competing in the market with the Hyundai Santa Fe, Mitsubishi Outlander and perhaps the Toyota Kluger, all of which are slightly more expensive. While it is perhaps not the best option for buyers in the market for a tough off-road vehicle, it is ideal for the budget-conscious family seeking value for money.