I think it is safe to say that Kia has it figured out.
With today’s inflation rates and used vehicle prices, the new vehicle market is limited in inventory and high in price. Across the board, we see dealer markups, inflated current model-year pricing and year-over-year price increases from manufacturers pushed right to the consumer. Yes, your trade-in is worth a fortune — in some cases, what you paid for it — but for that new vehicle, you better get your wallet out.
Kia has followed suit, to an extent, but its price increases are a fraction of those imposed by competitors.
I recently tested a 2022 Kia Sorento SX-Prestige X-Line with all-wheel drive. It's a vehicle for all types of consumers. Its interior, with seven-passenger capability and second-row bucket seats, is really exclusive. Not only can it haul and move people and things, but its ability to fit in supermarket parking spots is easy. Similar to Hyundai’s Sante Fe, the redesigned Sorento is really a nicely designed SUV.
Powered by a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 281 horsepower and 311 lb.-ft. of torque, the Sorento had no problem getting up and going. Riding around in Eco and Snow mode, I noticed some great attributes similar to Kia’s other vehicles. All-wheel drive was also a feature on my X-Line SX-Prestige model and was nice in the snow, limiting slip and handling New England type weather conditions. An eight-speed dual clutch automatic transmission was also standard.
The 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system was exceptionally easy to use. Paired with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, I noticed that Kia’s infotainment system is right up there with FCA’s UConnect system. Also, a panoramic sunroof, roof rails, LED headlights, and array of safety and driver-assist technology was also standard. A 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster was also present on the SX-Prestige model.
Riding on 20-inch matte finish alloy wheels, the Sorento rode quiet, was comfortable and was very luxurious for the mass market brand, while keeping in mind Kia’s claim to fame: its excellent warranty.
Kia always does a good job while keeping the consumer at the top of its checklist. In typical Kia fashion, the Sorento is a huge bang for the buck and certainly a win for consumers. The new Kia logo was also present, which really gives Kia that display of trendy excellence the brand deserves.
2022 Kia Sorento SX Prestige X-Line
MSRP: $43,090
As tested: $45,120
Engine: 2.5-liter DOHC turbocharged four-cylinder
Horsepower/Torque: 281/311
EPA fuel economy: 22 city, 27 highway, 23.3 as tested
Fuel required: Regular
Length/Width/Height: 189/74.8/70.3 inches
Ground clearance: 6.9 inches
Cargo capacity: 12.6-75.5 cubic feet
Towing capacity: 1,654-3,500 pounds
