2012 Kia Sorento: Affordable Style

For 2012 the Kia Sorento EX FWD gained a few more upgrades from last year’s redesign. At the top of the list are the new optional direct fuel injection four cylinder engine, ventilated drive seat and “Uvo” voice-activated control. All of which were included on my test model.

One of the selling points of this crossover is that it’s long enough to have a third row seat that adults can comfortably use. This makes it a great choice for those who want something modest in size but with functional third row seating.

The EX model I drove came equipped with six-speed automatic transmission, rear parking sensors, heated front seats and a back-up camera. I also had the optional third row seat with 50/50 fold down. It also came equipped with keyless/ignition which I am appreciating more with each car I drive with this feature. No more do I have to remove my keys while balancing two bags of groceries, just a touch of the handle and my door is open.

The Kia Sorento EX FWD also came equipped with Kia’s new Uvo a voice activated electronics interface similar to Ford’s Sync. I have to admit to being frustrated with this at times, I seem to have a voice that voice activated systems love to ignore. The Interior looks sophisticated with good-looking dashboard materials and intuitive climate and audio controls.

In the safety category the 2012 Kia Sorento comes standard with antilock disc brakes, front seat side airbags and side curtain bags that do not cover third row seating. In government safety tests it was given four out of five stars for overall protection.

When on a long drive the Sorento’s front seats provide plenty of comfort and the second row seating accommodates two comfortably and three if you simply must. As I said before the third row will actually seat adults (even relatively tall ones). With the third row folded down the Sorento can carry a little over 72 cubic feet of cargo.

The new direct injection 4 banger delivers power around town and with lighter loads but becomes sluggish when loaded up with extra passengers or cargo. If a quite cabin is something you look for the Sorento won’t disappoint and the drive is relatively smooth.

For a crossover, the Sorento gets great gas mileage, 22/city and 32/highway, something I’m always on the look-out for. With a price of just over $30,000.00 it’s something to write home about.