Flash Drive

2017 Kia Sorento

Model Tested: 2017 Kia Sorento SXL AWD

The handsome 2017 Sorento SXL is an excellent all-weather family touring SUV.

Engine: 3.3-liter V-6, 290 horsepower 252 lb-ft torque

Transmission: 6-speed automatic, all-wheel-drive

EPA Rating: 17-mpg city/23-mpg highway/19-mpg combined

Base Price: $45,700

As Tested: $46,990

Performance:

Smooth V-6 engine and 6-speed automatic

Pleasant highway ride

Drive modes: regular, Eco, and sport

The Kia 2017 Sorento is well-suited to snowy weather with all-wheel-drive and a locking center differential.

Blind spot monitor

4×4 locking center differential

Traction control

Hill Start Assist

Autonomous Emergency Braking System

OK fuel economy—we averaged 17.4-mpg city

Comfort:

Three temperature heated and ventilated front seats

Super stretch-out front legroom

Heated steering wheel

Thick, wood and leather steering wheel

The slick contemporary 2017 Sorento styling extends to the rear 3/4-view. The SXL model features a hands-free power lift gate.

Good auxiliary controls

Driver power lumbar support

No passenger lumbar adjustment

Soft headrests

Big, wide sunvisors

Good second row knee room

Flat floor for second row

Highly adjustable, sliding second row seats

Adults fit in middle position of second row

Soft, wide second row armrest

The 2017 Sorento’s front legroom is outstanding. The steering wheel is heated.

Very snug third row seating

Utility:

Hands-free power liftgate

Flat cargo floor

Grocery size space behind third row seats

Nice below deck storage behind third row

Four projector-style driving lamps

Huge panoramic sunroof

HVAC controls for third row occupants

Cargo versatility is great in the 2017 Kia Sorento.

Medium, locking glovebox

Big, deep center console storage bin

Ample covered storage in front of shifter with power and USB ports

Medium size front door bins with big bottle notches

Small second row door bins

Large seatback storage pouches

Pull-up second row sunshades

Bright LED interior lighting

WOW Factors:

Handsome styling

Outstanding front row legroom

Second row seating is ample for three adults.

Room for five adults and two children

Versatile passenger/cargo configurations

Panoramic sunroof brightens interior

Whines:

Very small third row seats

Owner’s manual hogs glovebox

Bottom Line:

The 2017 Kia Sorento SXL is a handsome, spacious, seven-passenger SUV with lots of upscale features in the SXL trim. The engine and transmission are very smooth and high-tech safety features are great. Excellent warranty

The snug third row seating is best for agile youngsters.

and build quality.