Kia’s bush basher

THE Sorento is the larger of two 4WD vehicles sold here by Korean car-maker Kia (Sportage is the other).
Unlike many of its competitors in this heavily populated market segment, Sorento is a real ‘ladder-frame’ 4WD and so has the sort of off-road capability that will let it go just about anywhere the adventurous weekend or holiday traveller wants to take it.
However, be aware that it’s not a full-on bush-basher – you’ll still need the truck-style 4WD for the extreme stuff.
Kia has been making steady inroads into the Australian market in recent years.
While Kia’s success, as was that of fellow-Korean Hyundai, is clearly based on low price the company’s latest offerings such as the Sorento seem to point to a new level of quality which, combined with ongoing low prices and high equipment levels could see boom times ahead.
On-road the Sorento is quiet and comfortable and is almost car-like to ride in. Handling is OK for a vehicle of this type and price.
Drive at a moderate pace and it feels fine. Off-road the ride is on the bouncy side at times.
Sorento has the latest in safety engineering for this type of vehicle with crumple zones front and rear, as well as strong bracing on the side to assist in side collisions.
It is possibly not quite as safe in a big crash as a full monocoque 4WD but its design is a major step in the right direction.
Cabin space is ample for four large adults, five can be transported without too much of a squeeze and the rear floor is almost completely flat.
The Sorento’s boot is a good size and comes with a removable safety cover.
There are several sizeable stowage areas, such as the one hidden under the boot floor where you can keep cameras, small bags and such like.
A two-range transfer case is simple to use by way of a dash-mounted knob that turns to give two and four-wheel drive and high and low ranges. You can select high-4WD while on the move at speeds up to 80 km/h.
Four-wheel drive can’t be used on sealed surfaces, but can be selected for safer driving on unmade roads.
Kia Sorento is a most impressive first attempt at a 4WD in this class. It’s attractive, easy to drive and spacious inside and very well priced at only $35,950 (manual) and $37,950 (automatic).