The refined, three-row Kia Sorento continues to be a strong competitor in the midsized SUV class. We liked how its range of features and functionality are bundled together in a tasteful, modestly-sized SUV.
The six-cylinder Sorento got a new eight-speed automatic transmission as part of its update for 2019. That 3.3-liter V6 engine is punchy and polished, and delivers power effortlessly, and all-wheel-drive versions can still tow 5,000 pounds. The slick transmission and quiet engine returned 22 mpg overall, one mpg better than when we last tested this SUV. The base Sorento comes with a four-cylinder engine.
We appreciated the Kia's comfortable ride, particularly how the suspension absorbed road flaws. In routine driving the Sorento has responsive handling, but it isn't in the same league as the more-enjoyable Mazda CX-9.
The Sorento is well-appointed inside, but isn't ostentatious. The controls are among the easiest to use in the industry, including the intuitive infotainment system with, in our test car, an eight-inch touch screen. We appreciated the standard Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility.
The Kia's quiet, nicely appointed interior has soft surfaces and supportive seats. Adults should find the well-padded second-row seats to their liking. There's a standard child-friendly third row.
While the Sorento's smaller size gives it better maneuverability than the Honda Pilot or Toyota Highlander, it also means there's less cargo and interior space, and getting to the third-row is a challenge.
Forward-collision warning and city speed automatic emergency braking are standard on the midlevel EX trim and above.