Driving Impressions

With either V6 under the hood, the 2009 Kia Sorento has plenty of power for both city traffic and swift highway cruising. The suspension provides a pleasant ride and adequate handling on smooth pavement, but when the road gets rough, the ride gets bouncy, with a good deal of the bumps transmitted directly into the cabin. The Sorento's brakes might also be a cause for concern; in previous testing, we noticed significant brake fade after just two panic stops from 60 mph. Drivers who plan on any traversing of mountainous roads should keep this in mind.

The Sorento's steering feel, however, is satisfying and there's a minimum of body roll when cornering. Thanks to the Sorento's low-range transfer case and truck-based origins, off-road excursions can be tackled with relative ease, but the Sorento's capabilities still fall short of those possessed by more competent vehicles like the Xterra and FJ Cruiser.

    See also:

    Windows
    Power windows (if equipped) (1) Driver’s door power window switch (2) Front passenger’s door power window switch (3) Rear door (left) power window switch* (4) Rear door (right) power windo ...

    Explanation of scheduled maintenance items
    Engine oil and filter The engine oil and filter should be changed at the intervals specified in the maintenance schedule. If the vehicle is being driven in severe conditions, more frequent oil an ...

    Air bag - supplemental restraint system
    * The actual air bags in the vehicle may differ from the illustration. (1) Driver’s front air bag (2) Passenger’s front air bag (3) Side impact air bag (if equipped) (4) Curtain air bag (if ...