We expect a Jeep to be a leader when the roads disappear, but on all but one particularly nasty obstacle, the Kia was breathing on the Jeep Liberty's bumper. Because of its generous clearances, 2.48:1 reduction gearing, and limited-slip differential, the Sorento takes almost any hill in stride. Having 217 pound-feet of torque to climb and an ample 10.0:1 engine compression to descend hills contributes to the Sorento's exceptional composure. That added engine grunt comes at the expense of fuel economy, however. The 3.5-liter Sorento posts 15-city/20-highway mpg--the poorest efficiency of the bunch. And the 4317-pound curb weight and 4.67:1 axle ratio aren't helping.
We previously tested a Sorento that wasn't equipped with the optional ($595) ABS, and it took 17-20 feet more to stop from 60 mph--and that was on the second try. While it does have the largest four-wheel vented-disc brakes in the test, spend the extra money on no-brainer anti-locks. You may need them when you least expect it.
The Sorento's handsome styling draws favorable reviews.
Like the Suzuki, the Kia rides on a ladder frame, but with double-wishbone front/multilink rear suspension instead of a strut/multilink setup. Yet the Kia's shorter wheelbase and taller height conspire to produce a less-settled highway ride. The chassis shudders more after hitting abrupt road imperfections, and there's secondary suspension movement not present in either the Jeep or Suzuki. Combine that with an unusual amount of resistance when the steering is loaded, and the Kia can't keep up the pace in the slalom test. Considering that the Kia is an old-school truck-like-approach to building a sport/utility--actually excelling in an off-road environment--it rides and steers appropriately for what it is.
An in dash-mounted knob engages 4WD and has "shift-on-the-fly" ability.
In the end, the capable Kia Sorento finishes ahead of the smoother Suzuki XL-7 mostly because of its abilities in the dirt. Personal styling preferences and seating capacity needs might force you to make a different choice. But as we said earlier, this test is focused on balancing on- and off-road prowess against price and available options. In this way, the Kia is a real multitasker. We find it attractive for its packaging, performance, price, and trail-ready mechanicals. Kia could've made the Sorento more carlike, but then it would've fallen into the same "what's it for?" dilemma as the noncommittal Suzuki.