Specs: Kia Sorento

Base cost: $37,950 Engine: 3.5 litre V6 developing 145 kw at 5500 revs. Consumption: 13.5 litres per 100 km Warranty: three years or 100,000 km

By Ken Llewellyn

Look at the Sorento and you realise the designers have taken a long hard look at the very attractive and compact Mercedes ML 4WD which, of course, is nearly double the price!

But on the other hand the “Merc lookalike” has the attractive lines which would grab the attention of a doorman at any classy hotel. And inside there was sedan comfort, plus an unexpected bonus – standard automatic transmission!

Another surprise was an altimeter to ensure high-flying pilots feel at home. The on-board computer also provides barometric pressure and outside temperature, but fails to provide fuel economy and distance to empty.

Kia, a make unknown a few years ago, has had a surprisingly high profile launch in the United States, selling one million vehicles in nine years. So its reputation as a value-for-money manufacturer has hit the target with motorists overseas as well.

I was one of a group who picked up the Sorentos from Ateco’s (importers) Sydney offices. We were a disparate group from frustrated F1 drivers to reps from agricultural magazines who were really more at home in their ancient Landcruisers.

We headed for Wombeyan Caves via the dirt roads of the Southern Highlands of NSW. It was here that the “racers” took off to demonstrate their off-road skills. And I must admit I was impressed at the speed the Sorento could be hustled along on very indifferent roads.

Frankly it is not designed for tough off-road work but even so I found the poise of the vehicle quite remarkable. This is in part due to the wide 1.5m track that exceeds the Mercedes ML, BMW X5 and the Ford Explorer.

It was also reassuring to know the Sorento is not only equipped with twin air bags, but the latest crumple zones back and front as well as extended bracing to protect passengers in a side collision. It is built in the same mode as the old 4WD with a ladder frame and separate body.

The 3.5-litre V6 provides ample power (a claimed top speed of 192km/h), there is excellent steering feel, low wind noise and a general feel of refinement. Power is transmitted to the four-speed auto via a two-range transfer case, operated by the flick of a knob on the dash.

4WD can’t be used on sealed roads, but is available for dirt driving. Low range selection can only be activated from rest.
The Sorrento weighs just over two tonnes and consequently fuel consumption is reasonably heavy.

Other goodies include independent suspension, central locking, alloy wheels, four-wheel disc brakes, cruise control, CD stereo with six speakers, three 12-volt outlets (one to power your fridge) and split rear seats. Add to that rubber rings around the drink holders to prevent rattles and a centre armrest for two storage boxes.

Although the Kia is a fully equipped package, you can still add leather upholstery for $1800 and a sun roof for a $1000. Kia products are about value for money and for those in the market for an easy-to-drive, full-equipped 4WD that can handle the odd bush trip the Sorrento is well worth a look.

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