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Sorrento aims at happy motoring
Source: news24.com
KIA Motors Korea uses the slogan “The power to Surprise”.
Well they certainly surprised the TygerBurger Motoring test team when recently road testing their new Kia Sorrento 2.5 CRDi Sport Utility Vehicle.
To start with the Sorrento is a very good looker, the combination of curves and razor sharp lines, together with a wide stance and high ground clearance giving the SUV a purposeful image of being a sporty and rugged off-roader.
The only time one realises the Sorrento is diesel powered is on start-up. From there on the vehicle is smooth throughout its rev range, and thanks to the tremendous amount of torque available is quite happy to potter along at 60km/h in fifth gear.
Mention is made of this fact in that with the fuel price continually rising a good deal of economy can be obtained by getting into the fifth ratio quickly.
One of the biggest surprises was how quickly the Sorrento picks up speed from a near standstill, the 2.5-litre powerplant always seeming to have plenty in hand when accelerating or overtaking.
The cabin itself with its high driving position allows the driver plenty of visibility behind the adjustable steering wheel, while the gear change is light for a vehicle of this size, making the Sorrento ideal for a Moms Taxi when required to do so.
Both loading and seating space are excellent, with a good deal of storage being available for smaller items and the tailgate lifting high for the stowing of bulky cargo such as a two-seater couch or similar.
During the recent rainy weather the aircon/demister worked well with five adults in the vehicle, while the radio / CD provided great audio sound to lift our spirits on the way to Worcester with heavy rain coming down.
Leather seating is comfortable, as is the legroom. Even the tallest member of the team not complain as per usual.
When asked to do a bit of off-roading the Kia Sorrento with its excellent ground clearance and angle of approach made light work of the muddy ditches and churned-up tracks encountered, the driver never having to break into a sweat or feel threatened by the surrounding inclement conditions.
Having received a five-star crash safety rating, the Sorrento has all the safety features a family could need. Add to this the fact that all new Sorrentos are sold with a 10 year / 150 000km warranty and you have a Sport Utility Vehicle that should provide you with happy motoring throughout ownership.
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