Kia Sorento
Overall Score - 8.7 (Very Good)
The Sorento delivers a good value on a compact SUV with strong towing capacity and excellent safety ratings, but can't quite match the comfortable ride and fuel efficiency of others in its class. Buyers might also consider the Honda CR-V or the Toyota RAV4
While the Kia Sorento offers a powerful engine with an impressive towing capacity and boasts excellent crash test ratings, many reviewers feel that a rough ride and cramped interior detract from its appeal. "The Sorento's long list of standard features, impressively powerful V6 engine and easy-to-swallow low sticker price are also a big draw," according to Kelley Blue Book. Several reviewers find that its truck-based frame offers an overly rough ride, but with an increased towing capacity of 5,000 pounds, and available four-wheel drive, Car and Driver says its "got the right stuff for rock crawling." Edmunds calls the Sorento "rugged and well-equipped."
BusinessWeek reports, "The Kia may offer better value than any of its rivals," and Edmunds adds that the "2007 Kia Sorento is a great choice if you're shopping for a midsize SUV with available four-wheel drive and towing capabilities." IntelliChoice rates the Sorento an "average" value, based on total cost of ownership compared to others in its class.
Sorento Performance - 6.9 (Mediocre)
The 2007 Kia Sorento offers good acceleration for its class, but most reviewers found the ride uncomfortable. Edmunds writes that the car delivers an "overly rough ride on bumps and cracks." continue
Sorento Exterior - 8.6 (Very Good)
Reviewers are mixed about the looks of the 2007 Kia Sorento, though many agree with Edmunds' assessment and call it "good looking." BusinessWeek, on the other hand, groans, "The Sorento doesn't look that different from most of the other mid-size SUVs in the parking lot." continue
Sorento Interior - 7.6 (Good)
The 2007 Kia Sorento earns praise for interior quality and spaciousness. The five-passenger cabin "has the look and feel of an upscale SUV," according to Kelley Blue Book, although most reviewers agree that only four adult passengers fit comfortably. The Sorento also lacks the optional third-row seat offered by all three of its competitors. continue
Sorento Safety - 9.6 (Excellent)
2007 is a landmark year for the Sorento -- it marks the first time the SUV ever received the highest marks in front and side crash tests. BusinessWeek calls the Sorento's safety "tip top" and Kelley Blue Book says it is "another area where the Sorento shines." continue
Sorento Reliability - 4.0 (Mediocre)
The 2007 Kia Sorento reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). The Sorento comes with a five-year/60,000-mile limited basic warranty. continue