2008 Kia Sorento: Road Test
2008 Kia Sorento ▼
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- MSRP: $20,995 -$26,195
- Invoice: $20,000 -$24,370
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Our road test for the 2008 Kia Sorento includes a full evaluation of the 2008 Kia Sorento from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2008 Kia Sorento, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2008 Kia Sorento help you decide if a 2008 Kia Sorento is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| 4WD EX | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 5.5 |
The 3.8-liter V6 is strong from a stop and has adequate passing power. The transmission is generally smooth, though full-throttle downshifts can be abrupt. We recommend the available Torque-On-Demand 4WD for its all-surface convenience. No opportunity yet to test with the 3.3-liter V6.
FUEL ECONOMY
| 4WD EX | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 3 | 3.6 |
No opportunity to measure. Sorento uses regular-grade gas.
RIDE QUALITY
| 4WD EX | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 4 | 5.4 |
The ride is generally comfortable and composed, but it is stiff and jiggly over modest road imperfections, and larger bumps and sharp-edge ruts can be jolting. Large humps and dips trigger hobby-horse pitching.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| 4WD EX | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 4 | 4.4 |
Handling is on par with most other midsize truck-type SUVs. Sorento corners with noticeable body lean and modest tire grip. The brakes provide good stopping control.
QUIETNESS
| 4WD EX | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 5.5 |
The 3.8-liter V6 is noisier than most rivals' engines. Wind noise and coarse-surface tire thrum intrude but aren't irksome.
CONTROLS
| 4WD EX | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 6.4 |
The standard climate system has small, hard-to-decipher dials. The optional automatic climate control system is much easier to use. Gauges and other controls are conveniently located, clearly marked, and brightly illuminated.
DETAILS
| 4WD EX | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 5.4 |
Interior materials and assembly are a notch above many similarly priced rivals.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| 4WD EX | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 7.1 |
Sorento offers comfortable and supportive seats, with ample headroom and legroom even for above-average-size adults. Step-in height is reasonable for a truck-type SUV.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| 4WD EX | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 6.1 |
Wide doors open to roomy and supportive seating, though only two adults will be comfortable for long-distances. Low seat bottoms and reclined seatbacks mean exiting requires some extra effort.
CARGO ROOM
| 4WD EX | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 8 | 8.6 |
Cargo room is generous. After removing the headrests and flipping the cushion, the rear seatbacks fold easily to provide a flat load floor. Separate-opening hatch window is a convenience. Interior cubbies and storage compartments abound.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| 4WD EX | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 5.7 |
Sorento is priced like a compact SUV yet acts like a midsize, and impresses for interior decor and features per dollar. Resale values don't match those of top Japanese brands, but those rivals don't match Kia's generous warranty.
Total Score
| 4WD EX | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 61 | 63.7 |
Total Score: 61
Scores for all Midsize Sport-utility Vehicles
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