Budget, features and style aren’t normally put together when describing something like a 7 Seat SUV, however Kia have been able to deliver something like this in the Kia Sorento.
Starting from $39,990 drive away for the entry-level Si model, and working up to $52,790 for the range topping Platinum, there’s a wide range of features and creature comforts that make this SUV stand out.
Even though the 2014 Kia Sorento is due to be replaced by an all new model in 2015, we wanted to see what our customers loved about the Sorento for ourselves.
Especially since this SUV has won Drive’s ‘Best SUV over $40,000’ for the last four years straight – definitely nothing the sneeze at.
Initial Impression
If it’s sophistication and presence are what you’re wanting, the Sorento does an excellent job at bringing those two things together. From the chrome trim, large 19inch alloy wheels, and privacy glass, it’s a look that will have others asking you: “What is that? It looks great.”
Our Kia Sorento Platinum model has all of the bells and whistles available and straight away we were in love. The heated and cooled seats instantly made scorching hot leather seats into cool and comfortable lounge chairs that you want to sink into, whilst you stare out of the panoramic sunroof trying to make out animals and shapes from the clouds.
In the 2nd row of seats, the kids will feel like rock stars with roll up privacy screens blocking out the slightest glimpse from the outside, all while it helps keep the car that bit cooler.
Drivability
Available in the range are a combination of diesel and petrol engines, and our 145kW/421Nm diesel engine delivered all the power and go that you want and need for a SUV like this.
The seating position is fantastic for the driver, and the steering with its different driving modes allows you to fine-tune how you want the car to handle. Ride quality was good and both peak hour and highway traffic was quite enjoyable.
However, that could be a result of entertainment from the great sound system and touch of luxury felt in the cabin.
The AWD system implemented in the Sorento won’t see you taking on big off-road adventures, but if you’re planning on visiting some easy national park tracks, you won’t find any issues here.
Fuel consumption of our diesel engine was much better than we had expected with our evaluation coming very close to matching the claimed 7.3L/100km combined figure from Kia.
Plus there’s 2,000kg braked towing capacity there to be taken advantage of when the next family holiday comes up.
Practicality
Physically, the Sorento isn’t quite as big as some of its other 7 seat competitors, but when you need to, you can fit in the kids and their friends without drama.
However, the Sorento is best suited to those who would only use the third row of seats infrequently, as they are a little tight and with no ventilation – it can get a little hot during summer.
Thankfully, with the third row folding into the floor, there is a huge amount of boot space to take advantage of. So much so, that visit to Costco won’t result in leaving the kids behind.
Cost
Compared to other models available, there’s a great deal of standard features that make the Kia Sorento quite the contender. With satellite navigation, panoramic sunroof, privacy glass, Active HID headlights, rear view camera and front and rear parking sensors, there’s lots to love in our Platinum model.
Pricing for the 2014 Kia Sorento Platinum is $52,790 drive away, but if you do not want all of the tech and creature comforts, you can get yourself into the Sorento from $39,990.
Also included in the purchase price is Kia’s unrivalled 7 Year/Unlimited KM warranty and access to 7 Years of Capped Price Servicing and Roadside Assist. This provides excellent peace of mind that can even be transferred to subsequent owners.
Conclusion
During the time we spent in the 2014 Kia Sorento Platinum, we had a lot of fun and managed to fully utilise all of the standard equipment that sets this SUV apart in the price range it sits in.
The Sorento is a great car for the family and is so easy to live with, that it should be a serious consideration on your shopping list.
Make sure you come in and test drive this stylish SUV at either of our Motorama Kia dealerships at Moorooka and Browns Plains.
Keyword: Review: 2014 Kia Sorento