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Kia refettled the Sorento for those who understood their city limits.
New
Kia diverted from the bush and went closer to the 'burbs with its all-new Sorento wagon in 2009.
Gone were the low-range transmissions in its four-wheel drive models — in came economy-oriented four-cylinder and front-wheel drive models.
These were clear signals the new XM Sorento was aimed at townies with little or no ambition to go beyond the city limits.
The new monocoque wagon sported styling more suited to city tastes, with new levels of comfort, and was configured more for city use than was its predecessor.
There were three tiers of trim. The Si came in front and all-wheel drive, the mid-range SLi likewise and the range-topping Platinum was all-wheel drive only.
Primarily town-focused, the Si opened as a front-driver with 2.4-litre four-cylinder and 3.5-litre V6 engines. Its all-wheel drive versions had the 2.4 or a 2.2-litre turbo diesel power.
The SLi matched the engines in front-drive form, with the turbo diesel in the AWD version. Top-spec meant AWD only and turbo diesel for the Platinum.
Most variants came with a new six-speed sports-shifting auto transmission, though the Si turbo diesel had an optional six-speed manual.
Unlike the earlier model the XM had no low-range gearbox, somewhat reducing the Sorento's off-road capability.
The wheelbase was shorter than in its predecessor and the ground clearance was reduced. Its longer body translated into more cabin space, enabling seating for seven and creating more luggage space.
Now
Kia build quality and engineering integrity have come on in leaps and bounds, transforming the brand from a cheap-and-cheerful wannabe to one that is well respected, even desired.
Improvements in all areas mean the likes of the Sorento are much more reliable and durable than previously, as well as more comfortable and refined and very competitive against segment rivals.
Owners report few flaws, generally of a minor nature and fixed by dealers, quickly and without fuss.
Almost all commend the turbo diesel engine for its torque, which makes it very drivable if you adjust your style to take advantage of it. Owners also report good fuel economy around town and on the open road, even when towing a fair load. Oil use with the turbo diesel can be high but this appears to reduce once the engine has been bedded in.
The Sorento has been remarkably free of trouble. There was one recall in 2010 to fix a design flaw in the wiring to the door trim illumination.
Check for a service record to ensure your intended purchase has been properly maintained.
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![2016 Kia Sorento SI (4X2)]()
$19,9902016 Kia Sorento SI (4X2) -
![2017 Kia Sorento SLI (4X4)]()
$19,990Drive away2017 Kia Sorento SLI (4X4) -
![2022 Kia Sorento Sport+ 7 Seat]()
$49,8852022 Kia Sorento Sport+ 7 Seat -
![2013 Kia Sorento Platinum (4X4)]()
$21,990Drive away2013 Kia Sorento Platinum (4X4) -
![2015 Kia Sorento SLI (4X4)]()
$21,999Drive away2015 Kia Sorento SLI (4X4) -
![2012 Kia Sorento SI (4X2)]()
$11,9902012 Kia Sorento SI (4X2)
Kia Sorento 2009: EX
| Engine Type | Diesel Turbo 4, 2.5L |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Fuel Efficiency | 9.4L/100km (combined) |
| Seating | 5 |
| Price From | $6,050 - $8,580 |
| Safety Rating |
|
Verdict
Smithy says
Lots to like, little to dislike in Kia's big SUV.
Owners say
James Blaney: My 2010 SLi AWD diesel had done 30,000km when I bought it. Now on 47,000km, it hasn't missed a beat. Fuel consumption varies between 6.0L and 8.0L/100km. It can be a bit sluggish until the turbo boosts up but there is plenty of torque around 1800rpm-2000rpm, so it's brilliantly drivable on the highway and up hills. The auto is nice and smooth but tends to hold on to high gears on hills when it really should drop a cog to maintain momentum. Handling is excellent, the steering is nicely weighted and it turns in with precision. The rear end seems tuned for load carrying, so when empty it can crash over bumps and isn't terribly compliant. A broken lumbar support in the driver's seat was fixed pretty quickly. Cost of servicing is reasonable. I have heard reports of some diesels burning oil, but mine hasn't. My only complaint is that the high beam headlights are useless once the street lights finish.
Bob Coughlin: I have owned a Platinum for almost five years and with the exception of some early problems with cruise control I have been very happy with it. Fuel economy with the diesel engine has been excellent.
Joe Fallon: We bought our SLi diesel in 2011 and have done 116,000km, much of it towing a 17-foot caravan. On a long run the best has been 6.7L/100km, and when towing we get around 13.6L/100km. The rear passenger door lock would stick so the door module was replaced with no further problem. It's still on the original brakes and pads, tyres were replaced at 75,000km, and the replacements look good for another 45,000. Are we happy with it? You bet. Would we buy another? Yes.
Ian Bruce: We bought our 2012 SLi diesel new and have done just over 62,000km. I have found the Sorento to be very comfortable and an easy drive on longer trips. The fuel consumption has been good, and so has the performance. Tyre wear has been great; we are still on the first set of tyres. The satnav screen failed, the steering wheel leather was flaking off and the engine in the first 10,000km used some oil.
At a glance
Price new: $36,490-$48,990
Price now:
Si $15,000-$32,500
SLi $19,000-$34,000
Platinum $21,000-$39,000
Safety: 5 stars
Engines: 2.2-litre 4-cyl turbo diesel, 145kW/436Nm; 2.4-litre 4-cyl, 128kW/226Nm; 3.5-litre V6, 204kW/336Nm
Transmissions: 6-speed man/auto; FWD/AWD
Thirst: 7.4L-9.8L/100km
Also consider
Ford Territory - 2009-2013 - 3 stars
Large locally built SUV with tough six-cylinder engine, choice of all-wheel drive or rear-wheel drive. Avoid early model with front suspension problems. Pay between $11,500-$41,000.
Subaru Outback - 2009-2013 - 3.5 stars
Not your ordinary SUV but a high-riding wagon based on the Liberty. Well worth considering. Pay between $13,000-$35,000.
Mazda CX-7 - 2009-2012 - 3.5 stars
Choice of front or all-wheel drive models, diesel or petrol power. Handy contender. Pay between $12,500-$26,000.
COMING UP
Do you own or have you owned a Volvo C30? Send your comments to Graham Smith at grah.smith@bigpond.com or write to Carsguide, PO Box 4245, Sydney, NSW 2010.
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