Kia Sorento 2023 Review

The competition in the D-segment SUV market has always revolved around "space practicality" and "configuration balance." Many family users want sufficient passenger space, while also hoping for a daily driving experience that balances comfort and stability. As a key model in this segment, the 2023 Kia Sorento 2.5 AWD 6-seater offers a 6-seat layout, all-wheel drive system, and a high cost-performance configuration. In this review, we conducted a real-world test drive to see if it can meet the needs of multi-scenario vehicle use.

In terms of exterior styling, the Sorento 2.5 AWD 6-seater retains the rugged style characteristic of the brand. The front features a large, vertically slatted grille, flanked by sharp LED headlights with high recognition; the area around the front fog lights is outlined with black trim, enhancing its sporty appeal. The side profile has straight lines, with a length of 4,810mm and a wheelbase of 2,815mm ensuring interior space. The 19-inch alloy wheels paired with 235/55 R19 tires offer a stable visual effect. At the rear, the LED taillights adopt a through-line design echoing the front, while the silver skid plate at the bottom of the rear bumper highlights the vehicle's SUV attributes. The overall design doesn't rely on excessive embellishments, making it attractive and suitable for family-oriented positioning.

Stepping into the interior, the cabin is primarily designed in black, with a simple layout for the center console. The 12.3-inch touchscreen serves as the visual center, supporting Bluetooth, CarPlay, and Android Auto connectivity with smooth operation. Physical buttons are retained below for convenient blind operations while driving. As for materials, the door panels and seats are wrapped in leather, providing a soft touch. The center console area is accented with metallic trim, enhancing the overall sense of quality. In terms of features, a HUD head-up display, dual-zone automatic air conditioning, and electrically adjustable front seats are standard. The rear rows are equipped with independent air vents and a 220V power outlet, maximizing practicality. The 6-seat layout adopts a 2+2+2 configuration, with two independent seats in the second row that feature armrests. There is ample room for passengers, allowing someone 175 cm tall to have more than a fistful of space for both head and legs. The third row is suitable for children or short trips and works fine for emergencies. The trunk can accommodate two 20-inch suitcases in its 6-seat mode. Folding down the third-row seats expands the capacity further, meeting storage demands for family trips.

As for power, it is equipped with a 2.5L naturally aspirated engine offering a maximum horsepower of 179PS and a peak torque of 232N·m. It is paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission and an all-wheel-drive system. During daily driving, the car accelerates smoothly with linear throttle response. On urban roads, the engine can provide sufficient power maintaining a speed of around 2000rpm. For overtaking, the transmission downshifts promptly upon pressing the accelerator and delivers power continuity. Although it lacks the explosive power of turbocharged engines, it fully satisfies the daily needs of families. Driving modes include Eco, Normal, and Sport; the Sport mode enhances throttle sensitivity, making it suitable for highways.

In terms of handling, the steering wheel is precise with minimal play. It's light at low speeds and stable at high speeds, with a good tactile feel. The suspension uses a MacPherson front setup and a rear multi-link independent configuration, tuned for comfort. When driving over speed bumps or uneven roads, the suspension effectively absorbs vibrations, ensuring that passengers don't experience significant jolting. The body exhibits controlled tilting when cornering, providing sufficient support and avoiding a floaty feeling. The all-wheel-drive system performs stably on slippery roads, improving driving safety and handling light off-road conditions without issue. In terms of fuel efficiency, the official combined fuel consumption is 7.8L/100km, while actual test drives showed urban road fuel consumption at around 9L/100km and highway consumption at approximately 7L/100km, which is fairly standard.

The details of ride comfort are well-executed, with good cabin sound insulation. Wind noise and tire noise are controlled within a reasonable range during high-speed driving. The seat cushioning is soft, with sufficient lumbar support, making long periods of sitting less fatiguing. The brake pedal feels linear, the braking distance is moderate, providing confidence for daily driving.

Overall, the core advantage of the 2023 Kia Sorento 2.5 AWD 6-seater lies in its balance: the 6-seater layout meets the needs of families with more members, the all-wheel-drive boosts driving stability, and the rich features (such as a 12.3-inch central control display, HUD, electric seats) are highly competitive among models in the same price range. Compared to the Toyota Fortuner in its class, it offers better interior quality and tech features; compared to the Honda CR-V, its space and all-wheel-drive system stand out. This vehicle is suitable for families that value space and practicality, and occasionally need to handle unpaved roads, especially for those who frequently travel with elderly and children.

All in all, the Sorento 2.5 AWD 6-seater has no significant shortcomings. It is a family SUV that balances space, features, and driving experience. At a price of 235,000 RM, it offers excellent value for money and is worth considering for family users.