Kia's Sedona Utility Vehicle packs a punch but no real change in fuel economy. While it did Don a 2.0 liter turbo, it still couldn't get above 32 MPG with all its size, strength and glory. For a serious note, the Sorento is a big vehicle. When you while cargo volume behind the 3rd row increases from 9.1 cu.-ft. to 11 cu.-ft., providing increased space for essentials and active-lifestyle equipment. So drivers can fold the second-row seatback without opening the rear door. As Kia notes, this feature allows quick and easy loading of large cargo. So the vehicle holds everything but fuel economy. However, please realize I am picky. This is an SUV without a hybrid pack and gets 32 on the highway. City.. needs some work.
What a Tough, Bigger, Greater Looking Vehicle
Overall, the all-new Sorento takes on a brawnier, more planted stance, communicating its edginess and rugged personality. The Sorento comes even tougher than the 2014 version tested. It has stronger shoulders and a long hood to deliver a more aerodynamic and sleek appearance. Combining a significantly longer 109.4-inch wheelbase (up 3.1 inches) and overall width that's broadened to 74.4 inches (increased by 0.2 inches) the Sorento's packaging is more efficient and allows for greater interior room. The aggressively styled front end, with its narrower headlight design, is an evolution of the upper fascia seen on the Cross GT concept and bears a strong family resemblance to the all-new highly praised Sedona multipurpose vehicle. Distinctive LED positioning lights set the Sorento apart from others in the midsize CUV segment.
Four Cylinders with Turbo makes MPG FUN!!
To think that this Kia Sorento was a 185-hp four-cylinder is standard with a 240-hp inline-4 GDI turbocharged powerplant, 5 seats, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and premium cabin fittings, the Sorento is a fighter.
So as before this 2.0 liter turbo got in ECO mode around 31-32 MPG on the highway and 20's in the city. If it had a mild hybrid pack even like the X1, it could have been 38-40 MPG very easily. Better luck with your turbo ideas next time.
Safe, Safe, Safe
The 2016 Sorento CUV received the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's (NHTSA) 5-star overall safety rating. Built in the U.S. at Kia Motors Manufacturing Georgia (KMMG)*, Sorento offers a long list of standard safety features and an expertly engineered body structure.
"NHTSA's recent 5-star rating of the 2016 Sorento is a testament to Kia's commitment to safety. The Sorento is all-new for 2016 and is Kia's most capable CUV ever, yet still offers customers the tremendous value Kia is known for," said Orth Hedrick, vice president, product planning. "Meant for customers with active lifestyles, Sorento is the perfect getaway vehicle for adventurers and families on the go, and they can feel confident knowing their vehicle scored a 5-star NHTSA rating - the highest rating achievable from NHTSA."
Look at the size of this thing! Looks like it wants to compete with Lincoln. Thoughts?
Plenty of Room for the Price!
As Car and Driver Reported: "The Sorento remains vehicle with comfortable seats and well-mannered chassis helping to ward off fatigue. And while it's an increasingly common feature, the reclining and sliding second row gives occupants there plenty of stretch-out room while offering flexibility when we need to call on the third row and the cargo area."
This is all important because for a vehicle fully loaded like an Audi, Lincoln, Cadillac or a Lexus, this vehicle starts at $25,400 and tops out at $45,000 while others would cost closer to $60,000 with all the amenities. So for $45,000, it comes with the optional ($2,500) Technology package, which includes xenon headlights, lane-departure warning, forward-collision warning, an electronic parking, a heated steering wheel, nappa leather seats, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated second row. Not bad for this SUV but I know many people's complaint. They don't want to pay that much for a Kia. Yet in today's market, it is the least expensive for the luxury and dollar.
Plenty of rows! No batteries yet underneath to save of fuel yet! Yet!
My only complaint is it needs to get like Tesla and go all electric. Until then, at least start with a hybrid!