Rugged Yet Sophisticated, A Nice Combination I can't think of a better vehicle to get lost in the woods in! But then again, wouldn't something so well-equipped defeat
 |
| Getting lost in the woods wouldn't be so bad if it was while behind the wheel of the 2004 Kia Sorento EX-Luxury. (Photo: Alexandra Straub, Canadian Auto Press) |
the purpose of "roughing it in the bush?" The
2004 Kia Sorento EX-Luxury is a fully functional off-roading machine with a fully loaded, upscale luxury interior, as the name implies. Of course, all that finery doesn't take away from its rugged capabilities, but merely enhances them. No matter the road surface the Sorento drives the way it should, like a fully capable 4x4. Its front independent suspension, including double wishbones, coil springs, gas shock absorbers and a stabilizer bar, combined with the rear multi-link setup complete with coil springs, gas shock absorbers, and a stabilizer bar, gives it a dual personality, ready to tackle the trails while still reasonably agile and compliant on paved surfaces. Also the EX-L is equipped with a Shift-on-the-fly, electronic
 |
| All of the finery packed into the Sorrento doesn't take away from its rugged capabilities, but merely enhances them. (Photo: Alexandra Straub, Canadian Auto Press) |
control, 2-speed transfer case 4-wheel drive system making it possible to take advantage of that rough-and-ready suspension. Unfortunately, the only trails I tackled were made of concrete, which probably made my test drive less favorable. Due to a recent back injury the truck-like suspension was beginning to get bothersome toward the end of my test week. All the moving around from side to side when driving over speed bumps or pot-holed roads didn't help sooth my aching vertebrae. Although the standard front heated leather seats were very comfortable and therapeutic, not to mention classy, the suspension kept me moving about too much to my liking. But when driving on the straight the Sorento is smooth and enjoyable.
