2008 Kia Sorento

The Sorento is an attractive entry into the crowded affordable 4WD market. Offering either a 2.4-litre four-cylinder with a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic, or a new 3.3-litre V6 with a five-speed automatic, the facelifted-for-2007 Sorento offers decent off-road ability and a fair bit of interior space, making it a good buy, given its price. Standard features include 16-inch alloy wheels, radio cassette with antenna and 6 speakers, manual air-conditioning, power steering, 8-way adjustable driver seat, 4-way adjustable passenger seat, power windows, 60/40 split folding rear seat, battery saver, driver airbag, proper rear lift gate, power door locks, and limited slip differential. Available features in higher models include a CD player with power antenna and 8 speakers, ABS brakes, power folding mirrors and cruise control. Four-wheel independent suspension and four-wheel disc brakes make it a good road cruiser, unlike truck-based 4WDs, although it is still no sports car.