The refined, three-row Kia Sorento continues to be a strong competitor in the midsized SUV class. We liked how its range of features and functionality are bundled together in a tasteful, modestly-sized SUV.
The six-cylinder Sorento got an eight-speed automatic transmission as part of its update for 2019. That 3.3-liter V6 engine is punchy and polished, and delivers power effortlessly, and all-wheel-drive versions can still tow 5,000 pounds. The slick transmission and quiet engine returned 22 mpg overall, one mpg better than when we last tested this SUV. The base Sorento comes with a four-cylinder engine.
We appreciated the Kia's comfortable ride, particularly how the suspension absorbed road flaws. In routine driving the Sorento has responsive handling, but it isn't in the same league as the more-enjoyable Mazda CX-9.