Kia Sorento

The Kia Sorento is another proud offering from Kia Australia and the large family SUV is likely to attract a lot more followers to the brand. The Si 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine satisfies 2-wheel-drive enthusiasts, while a 2.2-litre turbo-diesel takes good care of those who prefer a 4-wheel-drive vehicle.

If the petrol-fuelled SUV is the vehicle of choice, then drivers receive 204kW of power at 6300 rpm and 335Nm at 5000 rpm very ably assisted by a sequential-sports-shifting automatic transmission. This transmission is standard in all models with the exception of the six-speed manual that helps drive the 2.2-litre diesel. The turbo-charged diesel delivers 145kW of power at 3800 rpm with torque peaking at 421Nm in the manual version and 436 Nm in the automatic. These figures are as impressive as the Sorento’s spacious cabin.

With a seven-seat capacity, the Sorento allows plenty of leg and head room for passengers in all three rows. Cargo space is awesome and, even when carrying a full passenger load, provides 258 litres of storage. Laying the 3rd row seats flat increases this to an amazing 2700 litres. Kia have also not been mean with the Sorento’s safety features.

High-tensile steel protects against collision, while side, curtain and dual front airbags give added peace of mind. Stability and traction control, electronic brake-force distribution and ABS anti-lock brakes are only part of what makes the Sorento a very safe drive. Recognisable looks are both tough and attractive and make a great first impression.