As a midsize SUV, the Kia Sorento knows how to please the driver and passengers. During a week-long test drive of the 2018 model, the Sorento’s quiet ride was essentially devoid of noise intrusions. And that in-cabin serenity was complimented by soft-touch materials and quality-inspired accents. There are only minor changes for the 2018 model year with all five trims (L, LX, EX, SX, and SX Limited) seeing improved headlamp performance and a front headrest design altered for better comfort. The 109.4-inch wheelbase Sorento underwent a full redesign in the 2016 model year.

The tested top-of-the-line Sorento SX Limited with all wheel drive is powered by a 3.3-liter direct injection V6 that produces 290 horsepower at 6400 rpm and 252 pounds-feet of torque at 5300 rpm. (Other available engines are a 2.4-liter direct injection 4-cylinder producing 185 horsepower and a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder producing 240 horsepower.) All engines are fitted with a standard electronically controlled 6-speed automatic transmission. The tested Sorento SX Limited has a base MSRP of $46,200 and collects estimated mpg of 17 city/23 highway.