2009 Kia Sorento: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The 2009 Kia Sorento gets slightly freshened exterior styling. This midsize SUV uses traditional truck-type construction, seats five, and slots below Kia's Borrego in size and price. Base, LX, and EX models are offered. Base and LX models are powered by a 242-hp 3.3-liter V6 engine, while EX models have a 262-hp 3.8-liter V6. A 5-speed automatic with manual shift gate is the sole transmission. Rear-wheel drive and 4-wheel drive are available. Kia offers two 4WD setups, both with a low-range gear for off-roading. The standard system cannot be left engaged on dry pavement, but Kia's Torque-On-Demand 4WD can. It's exclusive to EX and is included in the available Luxury Package. Maximum towing capacity is 3500 lb with the 3.3-liter V6 and 5000 lb with the 3.8 V6. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain side airbags, and a driver's knee airbag. Options exclusive to the EX include heated front seats and dual-zone automatic climate control.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Larger than Compact SUVs, Midsize SUVs offer a mix of car- and truck-type construction, V6 and V8 power, and up to eight-passenger seating. This class also includes crossover vehicles.

Our Best Buy choices are the Chevrolet Traverse, Honda Pilot, GMC Acadia, Mazda CX-9, and Saturn Outlook. Our Recommended picks are the Dodge Journey, Ford Flex, Hyundai Santa Fe, and Toyota Highlander.

New or significantly redesigned models include the Chevrolet Traverse, Dodge Journey, Ford Flex, Kia Borrego, Nissan Murano, and Toyota Venza. The Hummer H3 adds a crew-cab pickup truck bodystyle for 2009, while the Dodge Durango adds a gas/electric hybrid model.