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| Depsite its compact price the Sorento isn't small, with interior dimensions closer to a Toyota Highlander than a RAV4. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press) |
The Kia Sorento comes in two different models, the fully featured and the standard EX. This five-seater comes with a 192 horsepower 24-valve, DOHC, 3.5L V6 and electronically controlled 4-speed automatic transmission with overdrive. The EX also comes in either two-wheel-drive, powering the rear tires, or four-wheel-drive. The 4x4 edition includes a part-time Torque-on-Demand feature and an automatic full-time 4x4 drive system.
The Sorento also won MotorWeek's prestigious 2003 "Drivers' Choice" Award for Best Mid-Size SUV. The popular TV show's host and executive producer John Davis commented, "The Sorento is a real step forward for this up-and-coming Korean brand." He continued, "It is an honest-to-goodness truck-framed SUV that feels as tough as anything built in America. When combining the ride, handling and features with an entry price of $19,900 ($ 29,795 CAD), the Sorento stood out as a winner to the MotorWeek staff."