Kia Sorento

Went to see and test drive this Sorento...

First looks, the center dotted grills looks impressive and sizable too.

In it is a 2.4L GDI engine, seems to me is a shared engine from Mitsubishi with perhaps a little tuning. Nicely designed LED front and tailights too.

Inside, guess Korean makers tend to captivate buyers with plenty of gadgets, from both front seats with electric plus memory, 7-inches dashboard display, bluetooth, cruise control, electric park brake, 2nd and 3rd row individually controlled aircon, all 4 fully automated windows and a feature that no one gives which is TPMS.

On the drive, the 2.4L powers and throttles much better with the 6-speed gearbox. Drive was nothing to shout about but dashing forward to overtake is not easy, comparing to similar 2.0L or even same 2.4L Japanese makers. Tried cornering and the AWD don't seem to kick in compare to Forrester who can corner much better.

Salesperson says have park assist (which I saw button), adaptive headlamps and blindspot assist but did not get to try them.

Overall it can be a considerable 7 seaters SUV if you are more of a gadget person but if you are of both reliable engine and also gadgets, then you may want to look at Japanese makes like X-Trail or even continental ones but you will need deeper pockets.

Test drive the new 2.2CRDi AWD Sorento, the handling had been improved compared to the previous model and the overall wheelbased had increase which mean a better 3rd roll leg room (the previous model also have decent leg room).

Road handling is good with the AWD even with the corners and wet road during the rain.

It would be best for road trip up North to Malaysia and even to Thailand. I prefer to drive up via old trunk road, even I always do that when I driving up to Malacca. Try both the West Coast trunk road and central thru Kulai - Ayitam - Batu Pahat - Muar.

Looking to change to one in the near future.

The driver side dashboard impress me most with the contours wraparound feeling. The controls are within reach without taking your eyes off the road. It also features a auto-hold button where once stopping at a traffic light junction, drivers need not have to step onto the brake all the time.

Their latest design of 'cooling' seats system for both the driver & front passenger a plus sign for KIA Motor. Those who likes long driving north to Malaysia will find it pleasant as after long hours of driving.

Some driver who have difficulty in 'parallel' parking will not have to fear for KIA Motor had added a feature called "Smart Parking Assist System (SPAS) in the SX petrol model.

Those who like driving to Malaysia and wants to enjoy the full panoramic view of the greeneries of the forested mountains like Frazier's Hills, Cameron Highland or Genting Highland. You will enjoy it when driving a Sorento. The vast dual-pane panoramic sunroof will like up your interior ambience for you and your passengers.

Test drove the car at the event organised by MyCarForum's at the Kia Showroom at Alexandra. Was only keen in 7 seaters as mine is gonna be scrapped in a year's time. The car has been designed or crafted by renowned designer Peter Shreyer. He as an illustrious career designing cars such as the Audi TT and others. The car is packed with many features that are not available in cars that are its peers. Parking brake is that of a button, not lever. 3 driving modes: Sports, Eco and Normal. Hill Assist, Hold (Need not depress brake with gear at D), Auto Open Tailgate (Useful when hands are full), Air Conditioned Seats, leatherised dashboard that gives an opulent feeling, TPMS, Keyless start and auto steering straightening when car is turned on.

On the road, the brakes had very good bite, depress too hard and u see the passengers moving forward. Tried the few modes. At normal and eco mode, car felt a tad sluggish especially from 2nd to 3rd gear. Road handling was good and steering was precise and sharp.

On the exterior, keyless entry. LED tail lights and nice snout to boot. All in, it is good value for the price you pay. Try shutting the door, the oomph sound gives u a feeling of how solid the car is built.

Decided to swop from Jap MPV to Kor SUV.

No regrets at all in making this decision.

Just collected SX model from C&C.

Driving is exceptionally stable for its HUGE proportions. Better than other SUVs.

Petrol consumption is acceptable considering its overall weight.

Pick up is very good.

Sound insulation is very good - Comparable to continental favorites.

Seating is very comfortable positioned.

Materials used definitely not of mediocre quality.

19" Wheels a real stunner!

External appearance very imposing.

Definitely a strong competitor for continental SUVs.

Simply love this Beauty / Beast combination!