2012 Kia Sorento Review
The Kia Sorento crossover SUV is available in 4 trim levels, base, the sporty SX, the LX and the EX. Power options range from a 2.4 liter 4-cylinder producing 175hp/169lb-ft of torque to a 3.5 liter V6 that produces 276hp/248lb-ft of torque. A 3rd row 50/50 split-folding seat with room for 2 is standard on the EX V6 and SX, optional on the LX and four-cylinder EX. FWD is standard and the LX and EX have available AWD. Even the base Sorento is well equipped with standard features such as full power accessories, trip computer, Bluetooth, CD stereo system with satellite radio and much more. Upper trims as well as options packages offer a buyer the ability to fully customize for individual requirements and needs.
The BuyingAdvice Team Says:
The Kia Sorento provides plenty of comfort for long road trips with a third-row that can actually accommodate adults. With an affordable starting price and wide range of high tech features and conveniences, the Kia Sorento should be a top consideration.
What’s New For 2012:
In 2012 the Kia Sorento gained a few more upgrades after last year’s redesign. New is an optional 4-cylinder engine with direct fuel injection that offers more power, as well as better fuel economy. A ventilated driver’s seat, stain-resistant seating fabric and Kia’s “Uvo” voice-activated control interface are also new for 2012.
What is the Predicted Reliability:
The Kia Sorento received an overall score of 82 compared to the highest scoring vehicle in its category with an 89; the lowest scoring vehicle in the midsized SUV category received a very low score of 20. High marks were given for its spacious interior, easy controls, excellent fuel economy, securing handling, powertrain and crash test results; however, reliability is predicted to be below average. In a recent survey of current Kia Sorento V6 owners and impressive 74% responded they would definitely buy the Sorento again.
Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:
The Kia Sorento is a 2012 IIHS Top Safety Pick and got an overall 4 Stars out of a possible 5 from NHTSA. The Sorento is equipped with stability control, hill-start assist and hill descent control, antilock disc brakes, front-seat side/side curtain airbags covering the first and second rows and front active head restraints.
Pros and Cons:
Pros
+ A lot of standard features
+ 3rd row seat is decent sized
+ Long manufacturer’s warranty
Cons
– Lacks sliding 2nd row seat in 5 passenger model
– Smaller 2.4 liter engine struggles a bit with extra cargo/passengers
– Suspension a little too firm
Head-To-Head Competition:
The Kia Sorento has a slightly lower starting price than the Mitsubishi Outlander and is substantially lower than the Toyota Highlander. The Sorento has a 175hp engine compared to the Outlander with 168 horses and the Highlander with a slightly higher 187hp engine. The Sorento can tow heavier loads than the Outlander with a max towing capacity of 1650lbs compared to the Outlanders 1500lbs; the Highlander however has max towing capabilities of 3500lbs. The Sorento and Outlander offer a 5year/60,000 mile basic warranty and the Highlander comes with a 3year/36,000mile.
What Others Are Saying:
"This really is a quite good ute, with nice upholstery across all three rows. The engine pulls hard and without any thrashing, and it stays reasonably responsive even though it runs most of the time in fuel-saving Eco mode." –AutoWeek
"The interior is very refined and I found it attractive. The versatility of the cargo space is great for daily living, carpooling, road trips or hauling big stuff." –The Auto Channel
"Big, small and modern families with pets and related gear will fit perfectly into the Kia Sorento. Getting in and out is a breeze, with lots of room for everyone and everything." –VroomGirls
Read more about the 2012 Kia Sorento at the Kia manufacturer site.
