From a wallflower to world performer? Myk Belmonte discusses this car in total.
2009-2015 Kia Sorento
History
Kia had been offering the Sportage during the 90s, in which that quality issues was too plenty for this vehicle. Too much embarrassment had its second generation model utilized a shared with the Hyundai Tucson, in which it is based from the Elantra. Thankfully, the memories of the past were purged away by these reliable successors, in which both Korean brands reaped their successes with.
Entering the crowded and popular SUV market is the Sorento, which had Kia a foothold on the segment. Slotting above the Sportage (which wasn't a big seller even in South Korea itself), the first generation model used a body-on-frame chassis while its successor is now based on a car chassis. The unibody construction and the removal of the low-ratio transfer case had the vehicle lose more weight. With this in mind, Consumer Reports gave the V6 model an excellent score in its July 2010 issue.
Columbian Autocar Corporation brought in the second generation Sorento in September 2009, together with the overpriced Soul and Forte. Initially, a 2.4 gas model available in 4x2 and 4x4 guise were first made to be available until the diesels arrived the following year. Like the previous model, it competed with PPV's from Thailand (think Toyota and Mitsubishi) and the Hyundai Santa Fe, its sister vehicle. From launch, all Sorentos were offered in EX models until a cheaper LX was introduced in a 2013 facelift, making the EX strictly 4x4 one time.
Value and Costs
With the launch of the third generation model last April, prices of 2009 to 2015 Sorentos had dropped considerably. Older units can be fetched for as low as P520,000 with newer ones still playing in the P1.1M range. Since Kias aren't known for stellar resale values, their poor depreciation will favor the second hand buyer and this one is a good alternative against popular nameplates.
This vehicle isn't anymore as unreliable like most Korean cars of old, which is a good thing. Just like any vehicle, check out for any wear and tear caused by daily driving. Some models gain electronic gadgets, so have an eye if these go wrong. Parts supply aren't a problem, thanks to Korean parts specialist shops that sprout like mushrooms. Lastly, Kia has a five year warranty, so find yourself a 2011 or later model to get the remaining chunk.
Exterior and Interior
If the first generation model has some resemblance from the Lexus RX SUV, then the second generation has more visual lines that is more striking even when afar. This vehicle ushered the usage of Peter Schreyer's "tiger nose" grille application, further extending to other Kia vehicles. LX models loses the fog lamps and roof rails while EX units have these.
Since our market favors vehicles that can seat more than five humans, the Sorento obliges this especially that it has a third row seat (thanks to a size increase). This feature was dropped in 2013 for LX models, while the EX 4x4 has this one among the variants. Apart from this, material quality is top notch plus they are logically placed and numerous pockets abound the vehicle. Mood lighting, which illuminates the door panels during evening, comes standard only for 2009 to 2012 models.
Engine
All new engines (for the Philippine market at least) have seen usage in this vehicle, and interestingly enough both engines are from Hyundai. The first engine to be offered is a Theta II 2.4 4-cylinder, shared with the Hyundai Sonata and several Kia vehicles, that has 174hp at 6,000rpm and 227Nm at 3,750rpm. The popular engine (and what we pick) is the R 2.2 diesel which produces 194hp at 3,800rpm and 436Nm at 2,500rpm. For all intents, skip the gasoline especially that the engine struggles to carry the weight in which fuel economy and acceleration suffers because of this. On the other hand, the diesel is much powerful and powerband is accessible at an early 2,500rpm. No more 4x4 locking hubs available, it utilizes an all wheel drive system for selected models while front wheel drive is the basic one.
Driving Impressions
Since it now uses a unibody platform, riding and driving one is more similar to a car with high levels of refinement. Steering and handling may be on the lighter side, but that is an advantage for easy driving. If you are considering trading a truck based SUV, this is one good bet.
Verdict
With lots of changes, the second generation Sorento is an improved beast with numerous accolades and acknowledgements under the name, Kia has a winner here. Though far from perfect, it has taken its efforts more seriously.
Showing posts with label kia sorento. Show all posts
Showing posts with label kia sorento. Show all posts
Monday, November 16, 2015
Saturday, April 11, 2015
Car Profiles - Kia Sorento
KIA SORENTO
Aiming its sights towards the Grand Santa Fe and Explorer, the Sorento has packed lots of features for its price (which is stratospheric for some). If you can't swallow the P2.3M price, cheaper low end variants are on the pipeline.
The Good: A relaxing vehicle to drive
The Bad: Expensive
Price Range: P1,895,000
Our Rating: ***
Last Update: January 23, 2018
Tuesday, March 24, 2015
Kia Sorento - Generation 2.1 (2009-2012)
KIA SORENTO (2009-2012)
Moving to a unibody construction (it is considered as a crossover SUV), the second generation Sorento now has a mix of two and four wheel drive and gasoline and diesel engines. The former arrived first in seven seater guise until other variants came in.
Monday, March 23, 2015
Kia Sorento - Generation 1.2 (2006-2009)
KIA SORENTO (2006-2009)
The update had the V6 gasoline discontinued (which was no surprise), a new grille, and gave rise to a budget trim TX which was offered for a limited time. The EX was given a third row bench until it was the standard fare later on.
Kia Sorento - Generation 1.1 (2003-2006)
KIA SORENTO (2003-2006)
The first Kia Sorento is based from a truck (body-on-frame), a popular type back then. All models are strictly four wheel drive with either a choice of V6 gasoline or a 4-cylinder diesel.
Friday, August 15, 2014
Kia Sorento - Generation 2.2 (2012-2015)
KIA SORENTO
Friday, September 6, 2013
Car Profiles - Kia Sorento (2009-2015)
The Good: Powerful diesel engine, rides better than the previous model
The Bad: Somewhat unrefined, tight third row
The Say: An improved beast that has some bad manners.
Go For: 2.2 diesel
Avoid: 2.4 gasoline
Price Range: P835,000-P970,000
Our Rating: ***
Related Review: Used Car Review - Kia Sorento (2009-2015)
Latest vehicle profile: Kia Sorento
See the different versions of this vehicle:
2009-2012
2012-2015
Thursday, April 11, 2013
Used Car Review - Kia Sorento (2003-2009)
Searching for a cheap SUV that can take you anywhere is no difficult task, with Myk Belmonte finding one just for you.
2003-2009 Kia Sorento
History
Kia, used to manufacture bicycles and steel tubes by hand previously, had ventured out in car manufacturing in 1974 with the Brisa range of vehicles until an industry consolidation, enforced in 1981, had the manufacturer focus on light trucks. A partnership with Ford occurred in 1986 as their comeback in the industry, with the Kia Avella and Kia Pride being assembled and sold worldwide.
While the Sportage and the Retona are their first attempts on the SUV market, the Sorento was a serious attempt on making Kia known more than cheap prices and long warranties. The first model (launched in 2002 in their home country) that we are reviewing here is truck based, which results to a rugged exterior and has the capability to go off-road. In fact, Kia took serious steps on becoming a competent automobile maker. 2009 was the last year for this vehicle.
Columbian Autocar Corporation brought this vehicle in our shores to enter the increasingly competitive SUV market (thanks to the removal of taxes based on engine displacement) back in 2003. It started with just a sole gasoline V6 engine, with a diesel joining the line-up the following year. It may never sold as much as the Fortuner, but it had a market and thus, served as an alternative to the common picks whose waiting lines disappointed potential buyers. Trim lines included the EX and the TX, sold briefly from 2005-2007.
Value and Costs
Seeking for an affordable mid-size SUV that can be an all-around vehicle? With units below 600k, the Sorento is a great choice, that's if you remove your doubts and biases towards Korean vehicles. In your shopping, you'll encounter a mix of local and Korean surplus units. Just make sure they run well since various reliability issues abound.
For low maintenance costs, best to go with the diesel models; not it is fuel efficient but due to the fact that this engine is the majority of all Sorentos in the country. The CRDi engine has running expenses that is on par with other rivals having that technology under their hood. Numerous parts shops specializing on Korean vehicles are increasing, so better start your parts hunting there.
Exterior and Interior
The exterior dimensions can be mistaken for a Lexus RX, due to the fact that this generation has a short wheelbase. If the Lexus sports elegant curves, the Sorento possess aggressive side profiles. So, despite having a generic grille, the silhouette remains butch badge notwithstanding.
Surprisingly, the interior is devoid of cheap materials that plagued cars from the land of Kimchi. Rather than the common fake wood panels in color of lumber prevalent in million-peso vehicles, a piano-black wood panel is spread across and thus, does not give an awkward look. Just remember that this vehicle seats five bodies, and buyers who usually travel with more than that given number would have to look elsewhere. Three in the back is fine but stuffing your relatives at the cargo compartment is a different can of worms.
Engine
Two engines were made available during the first generation Sorento's lifespan. First available from 2003-2005 models is the Sigma 3,497cc V6 gasoline that has 192hp at 5,500rpm and 294Nm at 3,000rpm. From 2004 until expiration date you can have a 2,497cc I4 diesel which carries 142hp at 3,800rpm and 324Nm at 2,000rpm. The 3.5 V6 runs smoothly and refined but fuel efficiency is not a forte of this engine. For econo-freaks, the 2.5 diesel accelerates well and a great all around performer.
Driving Impressions
When cornering, expect some body lean (although not to the level of danger) and steering can be dull. But it behaves well when driven on smooth and straight pavements as well as the dirt trails. The ride can get a bit bouncy but not that as the level of the Fortuner. A switch on the dash is standard but the low height can be wanting on serious off-road trails.
Verdict
Test driving the first generation Sorento would make you convince to purchase this one. Forgive the somewhat bouncy ride and the badge but if all you need is a cheap SUV that delivers the goods, include this Kia on your shopping list.
2003-2009 Kia Sorento
History
Kia, used to manufacture bicycles and steel tubes by hand previously, had ventured out in car manufacturing in 1974 with the Brisa range of vehicles until an industry consolidation, enforced in 1981, had the manufacturer focus on light trucks. A partnership with Ford occurred in 1986 as their comeback in the industry, with the Kia Avella and Kia Pride being assembled and sold worldwide.
While the Sportage and the Retona are their first attempts on the SUV market, the Sorento was a serious attempt on making Kia known more than cheap prices and long warranties. The first model (launched in 2002 in their home country) that we are reviewing here is truck based, which results to a rugged exterior and has the capability to go off-road. In fact, Kia took serious steps on becoming a competent automobile maker. 2009 was the last year for this vehicle.
Columbian Autocar Corporation brought this vehicle in our shores to enter the increasingly competitive SUV market (thanks to the removal of taxes based on engine displacement) back in 2003. It started with just a sole gasoline V6 engine, with a diesel joining the line-up the following year. It may never sold as much as the Fortuner, but it had a market and thus, served as an alternative to the common picks whose waiting lines disappointed potential buyers. Trim lines included the EX and the TX, sold briefly from 2005-2007.
Value and Costs
Seeking for an affordable mid-size SUV that can be an all-around vehicle? With units below 600k, the Sorento is a great choice, that's if you remove your doubts and biases towards Korean vehicles. In your shopping, you'll encounter a mix of local and Korean surplus units. Just make sure they run well since various reliability issues abound.
For low maintenance costs, best to go with the diesel models; not it is fuel efficient but due to the fact that this engine is the majority of all Sorentos in the country. The CRDi engine has running expenses that is on par with other rivals having that technology under their hood. Numerous parts shops specializing on Korean vehicles are increasing, so better start your parts hunting there.
Exterior and Interior
The exterior dimensions can be mistaken for a Lexus RX, due to the fact that this generation has a short wheelbase. If the Lexus sports elegant curves, the Sorento possess aggressive side profiles. So, despite having a generic grille, the silhouette remains butch badge notwithstanding.
Surprisingly, the interior is devoid of cheap materials that plagued cars from the land of Kimchi. Rather than the common fake wood panels in color of lumber prevalent in million-peso vehicles, a piano-black wood panel is spread across and thus, does not give an awkward look. Just remember that this vehicle seats five bodies, and buyers who usually travel with more than that given number would have to look elsewhere. Three in the back is fine but stuffing your relatives at the cargo compartment is a different can of worms.
Engine
Two engines were made available during the first generation Sorento's lifespan. First available from 2003-2005 models is the Sigma 3,497cc V6 gasoline that has 192hp at 5,500rpm and 294Nm at 3,000rpm. From 2004 until expiration date you can have a 2,497cc I4 diesel which carries 142hp at 3,800rpm and 324Nm at 2,000rpm. The 3.5 V6 runs smoothly and refined but fuel efficiency is not a forte of this engine. For econo-freaks, the 2.5 diesel accelerates well and a great all around performer.
Driving Impressions
When cornering, expect some body lean (although not to the level of danger) and steering can be dull. But it behaves well when driven on smooth and straight pavements as well as the dirt trails. The ride can get a bit bouncy but not that as the level of the Fortuner. A switch on the dash is standard but the low height can be wanting on serious off-road trails.
Verdict
Test driving the first generation Sorento would make you convince to purchase this one. Forgive the somewhat bouncy ride and the badge but if all you need is a cheap SUV that delivers the goods, include this Kia on your shopping list.
Wednesday, April 10, 2013
Car Profiles - Kia Sorento (2003-2009)
The Good: Impressive diesel engine, not punishing to ride in despite body on frame construction
The Bad: Bouncy ride on rough roads, V6 engine drinks gas like there's no tomorrow
The Say: For a lower price, this can satisfy your SUV requirements.
Go For: 2.5 diesel EX
Avoid: 3.5 V6
Price Range: P310,000-P890,000
Our Rating: ***
Related Review: Used Car Review - Kia Sorento (2003-2009)
Latest vehicle profile: Kia Sorento
See the different versions of this vehicle:
2003-2006
2006-2009
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