The Kia Sorento has always been a favorite around here. Having gone through a redesign 3-years ago for the 3rd generation …. Kia’s biggest crossover freshens up for 2019. 

There are the usual front and rear fascia updates. The turbo is gone but Kia does say a diesel is in the works. For now though, the choices under the hood are a peppy 185-horsepower 2.4-liter I4 mated with a six-speed automatic or a 290-horsepower 3.3-liter V6 mated with a 8-speed automatic shared with the Cadenza. 

We chose the 6-cylinder, with it’s responsive throttle, amiable shifts, and smooth, compliant ride. Overall, it feels incredibly well-built. With all-wheel drive and Torque Vectoring Curve Control it held tight through the corners.

Inside is an updated instrument cluster, air vents and center console… to what had already become a much more premium feeling interior. Euro-firm front seats are comfortable even on long trip. 

The Sorento has been ahead of the 3-rd row trend for a long time… and now 7- seats are standard on all trims. The suite of available safety features grows to include Lane Keeping Assist and Driver Attention Warning.

So Kia improves their range of larger vehicles… while offering customers a sporty, capable 3-row utility that easily fits in the garage. The 2019 Kia Sorento is at dealers now starting at just under $26,000.

Specifications

  • Engine: 2.4 liter / 3.3 liter
  • Horsepower: 185 / 290
  • Price: Starting just under $26,000