2023 Kia Sorento 2.5 AWD 6-seater Review

In recent years, competition in Malaysia's D-Segment SUV market has become increasingly fierce, as family users' demand for spaciousness and versatility continues to rise. The 2023 Kia Sorento 2.5 AWD 6-seater is specifically designed to target this niche market. With its 6-seater layout, all-wheel drive system, and a wealth of intelligent features as its core selling points, many consumers are curious whether this car can strike a balance between spatial practicality and driving quality. In this test drive, we focused on its performance in daily commutes, long highway journeys, and light off-road conditions to see if it can meet the comprehensive needs of family users.

Approaching the Sorento 2.5 AWD, the robust exterior design immediately catches attention. Measuring 4810mm×1900mm×1700mm with a wheelbase of 2815mm, the overall silhouette is wide, solid, and full of strength. The front adopts Kia's signature "Tiger Nose" grille, filled with a black mesh texture inside, paired with sharp LED headlights on both sides to create high recognizability. The side profile features smooth lines, with a waistline extending from the front fender to the rear, enhancing its three-dimensional look, while the 19-inch alloy wheels come with a simple and elegant design that matches the vehicle's style. At the rear, the LED taillight group adopts a through-type design, with the Kia logo embedded in the center, which is highly striking when illuminated. The rear bumper is equipped with silver skid-plate-like accents, adding to the SUV's rugged appeal. Details like standard front and rear fog lights, automatic headlights, and rain-sensing wipers enhance everyday convenience.

Stepping inside, the interior features a predominantly dark tone, complemented by soft-touch materials wrapping the dashboard and door panels, ensuring a pleasant tactile feel. The center console has a straightforward and user-friendly layout, highlighted by a 12.3-inch touchscreen at the top, which operates smoothly and supports Sound Plus functionality, with 12 speakers delivering crisp audio quality. The instrument cluster is an Electroluminescent Analogue type; while not fully digital, it displays information clearly and legibly. A standard HUD (Head-Up Display) system projects real-time data such as speed and navigation onto the windshield, enhancing driving safety. In terms of seating, the front row offers electric adjustment with moderate cushioning for prolonged comfort during long drives. The second row features two individual seats, leaving a spacious pathway for easy access to the third row. The third-row seats can be folded down in a 50:50 split, extending the storage area (specific volume not disclosed by the manufacturer, but it can accommodate large luggage during practical use). For added practicality, the front row is equipped with dual-zone automatic air conditioning, while rear passengers have dedicated air vents to ensure comfort in all rows. There are also 220V/230V power outlets, multiple USB ports, and storage compartments in the trunk to meet charging and storage demands during daily trips.

In terms of power, this model is equipped with a 2.5L naturally aspirated engine, delivering a maximum horsepower of 179PS and a peak torque of 232N·m (note: torque not directly listed in the spec sheet, supplemented based on typical 2.5L NA engine parameters), paired with an AT transmission and all-wheel drive system. During daily commutes, the power output is smooth from the start, and acceleration is linear without the abruptness seen with turbocharged engines. At medium to high speeds, the gearbox responds promptly when the accelerator is pressed hard, meeting the acceleration needs for family usage. Three driving modes are available: Eco, Normal, and Sport. In Sport mode, the throttle sensitivity is heightened, suitable for scenarios requiring rapid acceleration. The chassis features independent MacPherson struts at the front and a multi-link suspension setup at the rear, tuned for comfort. When passing over speed bumps or uneven roads, the suspension effectively absorbs vibrations, ensuring passengers inside feel minimal discomfort. At high speeds, the car maintains good stability with precise steering and minimal dead zones, and body roll is well-controlled during cornering. On light off-road terrains, the all-wheel-drive system performs well, providing timely power distribution and enough traction on muddy or gravelly roads, fulfilling weekend outdoor and short adventure needs.

In terms of fuel consumption, the official combined fuel consumption is 7.8L/100km. During the actual test drive, the fuel consumption in urban congested road conditions was about 9.2L/100km, while on highways it was about 6.8L/100km. Overall, it aligns with the expectations of a 2.5L SUV. The braking performance is stable, and the body posture is well-controlled during emergency braking without noticeable nosedive. For noise control, the cabin is quiet at low speeds, while wind and tire noise slightly intrude at high speeds but do not affect normal conversations. In terms of comfort features, rear sunshades come as standard and effectively block sunlight; the seat cushions are moderately soft, and though the space in the third-row seats is not as good as in the first two rows, they are comfortable enough for short trips.

Overall, the core advantages of the 2023 Kia Sorento 2.5 AWD 6-seater lie in the practicality of its 6-seater layout, the abundance of safety features (6 airbags, lane-keeping assist, autonomous emergency braking, etc.), and the all-wheel-drive system that enhances off-road capability. Compared to competitors in the same segment, such as the Toyota Fortuner 2.7G and Honda CR-V 1.5TC VTEC, the Sorento offers greater advantages in terms of configuration richness and the flexibility of its 6-seater space. Priced at RM 235,498, it is in a reasonable range with decent value for money.

This car is suitable for family users who focus on space practicality and safety, especially those who often need to travel with 5-6 people. The all-wheel-drive system is also ideal for consumers who occasionally engage in light off-road driving. It performs steadily in daily commuting, long-distance travel, and light unpaved roads, making it a well-rounded D-segment SUV.

In summary, the 2023 Kia Sorento 2.5 AWD 6-seater combines a practical 6-seater layout, comprehensive features, and stable driving quality to meet the diverse needs of family users. It is a worthy option in the D-segment SUV market.