If you’re a family-focused and value-minded Canadian used vehicle shopper, it’s likely you’re looking for a roomy and capable hauler that won’t break the bank. If you tow a boat, have a cottage, or like to play in the mud on weekends, chances are you’ve decided that some type of 4x4 SUV will be joining your driveway in the near future. If you’re looking for a low-cost, high-capability model, chances are you’re considering the Kia Sorento.
The new-for-2010 Sorento launched last year after its predecessor retired from the market-- taking with it a praised ladder-frame structure and 4x4 transfer case with low-range gearing. These bits of hardware bolster toughness, strength and capability, and are popular must-haves with owners who plan to work their machines hard by towing or travelling extensively on the road less travelled. Neither a transfer-case or ladder frame is on board the second-generation Sorento, which has joined the masses as a more car-based crossover model. All to say, if you’re after a capable SUV that isn’t enormous in size or price, this may be one of your last chances to find one.
Just remember-- the extra beefy hardware adds weight, which means the Sorento will likely prove somewhat heavier on fuel than a smaller, lighter car-based model. If that’s ok with you, proceed with your shopping process.
In doing so, you’ll find power available from one of several V6 engines-- namely a 3.5-litre, 192-horsepower V6 in earlier models, or a 3.8-litre, 262-horsepower V6 later in the model’s life. A 3.3-litre, 242-horsepower V6 was also available-- depending on the year and model you’re considering. Shoppers can look for four or five-speed automatic transmissions, or a rare-but-sought-after five-speed manual from 2005 and on.
Four wheel drive was standard on virtually all models, engaged by either ‘shift-on-the-fly’ or automatic, ‘on-demand’ systems depending on the model in question. Other available features included fog-lamps, alloy wheels, a power driver’s seat, leather seating, tinted windows, a CD-changer, remote access and more.
Last-generation Sorento owners typically enjoy the value, equipment levels and styling of their machines, and most also report feeling safe and confident at the wheel thanks to Sorento’s solid ride and tall height. Owners also comment on good fit and finish, an easy-driving character and smooth acceleration and handling. Seems like where driving dynamics were concerned, Kia got the Sorento dialed in nicely.
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| 2005 Kia Sorento (Photo: Antoine Joubert/Auto123.com) |
The new-for-2010 Sorento launched last year after its predecessor retired from the market-- taking with it a praised ladder-frame structure and 4x4 transfer case with low-range gearing. These bits of hardware bolster toughness, strength and capability, and are popular must-haves with owners who plan to work their machines hard by towing or travelling extensively on the road less travelled. Neither a transfer-case or ladder frame is on board the second-generation Sorento, which has joined the masses as a more car-based crossover model. All to say, if you’re after a capable SUV that isn’t enormous in size or price, this may be one of your last chances to find one.
Just remember-- the extra beefy hardware adds weight, which means the Sorento will likely prove somewhat heavier on fuel than a smaller, lighter car-based model. If that’s ok with you, proceed with your shopping process.
In doing so, you’ll find power available from one of several V6 engines-- namely a 3.5-litre, 192-horsepower V6 in earlier models, or a 3.8-litre, 262-horsepower V6 later in the model’s life. A 3.3-litre, 242-horsepower V6 was also available-- depending on the year and model you’re considering. Shoppers can look for four or five-speed automatic transmissions, or a rare-but-sought-after five-speed manual from 2005 and on.
Four wheel drive was standard on virtually all models, engaged by either ‘shift-on-the-fly’ or automatic, ‘on-demand’ systems depending on the model in question. Other available features included fog-lamps, alloy wheels, a power driver’s seat, leather seating, tinted windows, a CD-changer, remote access and more.
Last-generation Sorento owners typically enjoy the value, equipment levels and styling of their machines, and most also report feeling safe and confident at the wheel thanks to Sorento’s solid ride and tall height. Owners also comment on good fit and finish, an easy-driving character and smooth acceleration and handling. Seems like where driving dynamics were concerned, Kia got the Sorento dialed in nicely.
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| 2008 Kia Sorento (Photo: Kia) |