Kia Sorento. Russified Korean cowboy / KIA test drives

Kia continues to expand its presence in the Russian market, and this is largely due to local assembly in Izhevsk. At Izh-Auto, following the Spectra and Rio, they launched production of the Sorento SUV. It is this version that we decided to test at the Dmitrovsky auto proving ground.

At the brand's dealerships, the Sorento is available in seven trim levels. Interestingly, five of them are equipped with a 2.5-liter diesel engine producing 170 horsepower. Moreover, such modifications are cheaper than gasoline versions, which is usually the opposite. Despite the efficiency of diesel engines, our drivers still do not trust the quality of diesel fuel at gas stations and prefer gasoline versions. The Izhevsk Sorento is fitted with only one gasoline engine — a three-liter unit with 241 hp. It is exactly such a car that came to us for testing.

The exterior of the Sorento is unlikely to deeply impress anyone. When creating the look, the designers clearly focused on timeless classics. There is not a single detail that could catch the eye. But the appearance does not cause rejection either — it is a typical representative of its class.

2007 Kia Sorento
© Photo: Sergey Krestov, 5 Koleso

Inside, in the top version, we are greeted by a leather interior and black wood-look inserts on the front panel. The plastic looks solid, but feels too smooth and slippery to the touch. The ergonomics are clearly inspired by the American school, where the main thing is an abundance of free space. The large steering wheel, which is comfortable to hold, immediately catches the eye. On the wide center console, there are the radio and climate control unit. Controlling them causes no complaints: the buttons are large, everything is intuitive.

It is comfortable in the Sorento not only for the driver. Three tall passengers can easily sit in the back row. The trunk also deserves special praise — a full 897 liters even with the seatbacks raised. Sound insulation is excellent: the engine start has to be monitored by the instruments, it runs so quietly. At a speed of 180 km/h, the noise level is only 77 dB — you can calmly talk in a low voice or listen to music quietly. An excellent indicator. However, from the American school came not only spaciousness, but also the suspension, which turned out to be too soft.

2007 Kia Sorento
© Photo: Sergey Krestov, 5 Koleso

When braking before a traffic light or an obstacle, the body noticeably pitches in the longitudinal plane. From the outside, it even looks impressive, but in dense traffic it is tiring. To avoid this, you have to work the pedals very smoothly. Despite the roll, typical of most SUVs, the Sorento performed well in the lane change test. It passes the VDA moose test at a speed of just under 70 km/h, and the ISO test at 120 km/h. Such results, with significant rolls and pitching, are provided by the electronic stability control system ESP, which intervenes correctly and timely, correcting driver errors. The Sorento completed the 18-meter slalom at a speed of 58.8 km/h in curb weight. Our tester Eduard Shivorshinov found this difficult: during rapid alternating loads, the steering wheel became very heavy, and when sharply passing the zero position, it noticeably "bites". This is common to many power steering systems, and you should be prepared for it. The large steering ratio also does not contribute to fast slalom passage: a full 3.7 turns from lock to lock.

2007 Kia Sorento
© Photo: Sergey Krestov, 5 Koleso

During maneuvering, oversteer is observed. The reason is the weight distribution shifted to the front axle: 56% versus 44% (1131/906 kg). The two-ton SUV accelerates to 100 km/h in 9.5 seconds — a good result. For an emergency stop from this speed, it needs only 40 meters — commendable. But if you accelerate to 140 km/h and sharply press the brake, the stopping distance doubles to 80 meters. This should always be kept in mind and an increased distance to the cars ahead should be maintained.

Let's sum up. The main drawback is the overly soft suspension, although in the city it is rather not a disadvantage, but a feature that many even like. The advantages are obvious: rich equipment, high-quality interior trim, classic design, and a torquey engine. Prices, by the way, are quite adequate for the set of positive qualities: versions with a 3.3-liter engine cost from 1,099,990 to 1,149,990 rubles.

Classic

2007 Kia Sorento
© Photo: Sergey Krestov, 5 Koleso

Let's clarify the essence right away. The Kia Sorento is a classic body-on-frame SUV with all the necessary arsenal for off-road: low-range gearing and a ground clearance of 203 mm.

For conquering rough terrain, body overhangs are critically important. The smaller they are, the more serious obstacles can be tackled. The Sorento has short ones, like a real "off-roader": approach angle 27.9 degrees, departure angle 26.4. But the unprotected plastic bumpers at the front and rear are puzzling. They need to be handled carefully so that you don't have to spend money on painting or repairs later. If you regularly go fishing or out of town, it is worth considering a bull bar and side steps.

2007 Kia Sorento
© Photo: Sergey Krestov, 5 Koleso

Expert

Kirill Kozyrev, 35 years old, test pilot, driving experience 15 years, drives a Mercedes-Benz G300 TD

Given the dimensions of the Sorento, its visibility is excellent. On the highway, you feel comfortable, although the suspension is overly soft. Despite the rolls, the car confidently holds its trajectory. The powerful engine provides decent dynamics.

Body
+ Spacious interior
+ Good sound insulation
- Classic appearance

Ride comfort
+ Spacious interior and trunk
- Light steering wheel and a large number of turns from lock to lock

Powertrain
+ Very torquey engine
- A more modern and faster automatic would be appropriate

Handling
+ Large ground clearance
+ Small overhangs
+ Good sound insulation
- Soft "American" suspension

Safety
- Airbags are provided for every passenger

Ecology
+ Fuel consumption at an acceptable level

Our rating

The Kia Sorento is an excellent choice for those who approach buying a car rationally and do not chase a flashy appearance. The SUV offers a good set of practical qualities. The only thing that spoils the impression is the overly soft "American" suspension.