AWD KIA SORENTO A PERFECT BLEND OF COMFORT, PERFORMANCE

By NITISH S. RELE – motoringtampabay@gmail.com

Just a few months after testing last year’s X-Line AWD Sorento, Kia dispatched over another of their fourth-gen SUVs, this one with the 2022 SX-Prestige trim added to the mix.

Once again, the midsize SUV is equipped with a forceful 2.5-liter turbocharged GDI 4-cylinder engine that cranks out 281 horsepower @ 5800 rpm and 311 pounds-feet of torque @ 4000 rpm. Coupled to a robust 8-speed dual-clutch auto gearbox, it seats six though it can hold seven in other packages. Modes include eco, smart, comfort, sport and snow drive. Tow capacity is adequate at 3,500 pounds.

A silver radiator “tiger nose” grille is surrounded by LED headlights and daytime running lights up front. Thanks to molded-in skid plates, the bumper delivers a tough look. But it is the elegant cabin in the steel unibody SUV, packed with abundant creature/tech goodies, that takes the cake. The enormous 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster sports an analog speedometer and tachometer with fuel and engine temp readings. Space is lots with a one-touch, slide-and-fold second-row Captain’s chairs and a 50/50 third-row seat, i.e., 75.5 cubic feet of space with both seats down. Other eases are 14-way power driver and 10-way front-passenger seats, heated second-row seats, power-fold outside mirrors, dual auto a/c, push-button start, satin-chrome door handles, vigorous leather shifter and tilt/telescopic steering column, 10.25-inch infotainment touch screen, panoramic sun roof, power lift gate and attractive wood on doors and dashboard.

Safety is assured via dual front and side airbags, driver knee airbag, side curtain airbag for both rows, electronic stability and traction control, four-wheel antilock brakes with brake assist, front active headrests, side impact door beams, front/rear crumple zones, forward, blind-spot and rear cross-traffic collision-avoidance assists, lane keep and follow assists, surround view monitor, rearview camera, daytime running lights and tire pressure monitoring.

The sporty X-Line AWD model with its praiseworthy off-road capabilities is a perfect balance of luxury and performance. Whether you are planning a long trip up North or a short jaunt to the Keys, the Sorento should serve the purpose remarkably well. And it is tough to beat if you consider the Korean carmaker’s basic 5-year, 60,000-mile and 10-year, 100,000-mile limited power train warranties.

SORENTO X-LINE SX-P (AWD)

Tires: 255/45R20

Wheelbase: 110.8 inches

Length: 189 inches

Width: 74.8 inches

Height: 70.3 inches

Suspension: MacPherson front strut, multilink rear

Steering: motor-driven power

Fuel capacity: 17.7 gallons

City: 22 mpg

Highway: 27 mpg

Base price: $43,090

Price as tested: $45,120

Web site: www.kiausa.com