Kia Sorento 0-60 times

The Kia Sorento is one of the most ideal mid-size crossover SUVs for those looking further than the ordinary minivan. The standard powertrain is a 185-horsepower inline-4. For 2019, buyers get a diesel engine while the 240-horsepower turbo-4 and 290-horsepower V6 remain optional.

There are 5- and 7-seater versions available. Optional features include Android Auto, navigation and Apple CarPlay. There are also premium interior fittings that add to the weight of the Sorento. The standard model features a 6-speed-automatic that powers the front wheels. Towing capacity for the all-wheel-drive is up to 5,000 pounds.

The L trim is the rarest amongst the Sorento’s. It features a 2.4-liter inline-4 that makes 178 pound-feet of torque and 185 horsepower. The power is transmitted to the front wheels via a 6-speed automatic.

The turbo-4 generates about 260 pound-feet of torque and 240 horsepower. The driving is perky, and the car reaches peak torque at just 1,450 rpm. The 6-speed-automatic delivers well without too much noise.

On paper, the V6 looks good. It makes 252 pound-feet of torque and 290 horsepower. Its peak torque, however, arrives later. It feels like the best version within the line as it launches without drama. The 6-speed-automatic functions pretty well in all versions, including in the V6.

Kia offers buyers three modes: Comfort, Eco, and Sport. Much of what changes in between the modes is the steering and shift points. The throttle doesn’t experience any changes and it shouldn’t. The system is already quite sensitive as it is. 

The Sorento isn’t an off-roading champion. However, the optional all-wheel-drive allows it to perform equally well if not better than most medium-size crossovers. The differential lock balances power 50/50. In addition, a 7.3-inch ground clearance, torque-vectoring functionality, and an all-weather system help the Sorento to brake without fuss.

The driving feel is fluid thanks to a fine-tuned electric steering and an independent suspension. The car is smooth and takes on the road with a lot of confidence and control. The front-wheel-drive turbo-4 can tow up to 3,500 pounds while the all-wheel-drive makes 5,000 pounds.

The current Sorento model first hit the showrooms in 2016. It’s neat and elegant. Its mature chrome and semi-prominent grille allow it to fit right into the crossover market. It carries better looks than what you see in some exaggerated American and Asian utility vehicles. The corners are well-detailed thanks to the LED lighting. 

The interior is an improvement to what we had in the previous model. Items are organized and polished. There are soft-touch finishes in the base model and appealing leather upholstery in the higher models. The Sorento is dashing and functional. The essential controls are placed higher for easy access.

The 2018 Kia Sorento L trim comes with auto on/off headlights and a rearview camera. The LX adds a Cool and Connected package with the AWD variant featuring a third-row. The turbocharged EX comes with power-folding side mirrors, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, hands-free smart power liftgate, standard auto up/down passenger windows and a 7.0-inch multi-information display. The EX V6 variant adds a novel Advanced Touring Package and automatic emergency braking. The SX trim features an auto-dimming rearview mirror and rain-sensing wipers as standard.

Written by William Mutugi