Makeover magic

The first thought that strikes your mind when you see the new Sorento is that it is quite unlike the ‘old' one. And once you get to know the car, you will realise that the difference is more than just skin-deep.

The first generation Kia Sorento was traditional SUV, with body-on-frame construction. This type is preferred for off-roading, as it is heavier, stronger and truck-like, with a ride to match. With unibody construction, which is the route the new Sorento has taken, the SUV takes the shape of a crossover vehicle. Some off-roading is possible. But it's more like a car, both in appearance and performance, than an SUV. The utility is more in its size and the cargo space.

Kia says that the transformation of the original body-on-frame structure into an all-new monocoque, or ‘single shell' design, has increased its interior space to the degree that an extra row of seats has been added. Some of them can now seat up to seven passengers. In other words, there is more leg- and elbowroom for everyone.

That is very evident the moment you slip into the car. Even a six-footer can ride in comfort. But the model I drove was a 5-seater, so I can't comment on the third row of seats in other versions.

Along with space, Kia claims that the redesign has resulted in class-leading performance, increased fuel economy, reduced emissions, improved on-road handling, and overall safety.

But let's start with its looks. The styling is sleek, and the fascia looks as big and mean as they come. It may not be anything radical, but it does fit it with the general run of crossovers it is competing with. Admittedly, very attractive, though.

Of late Kia and Hyundai have been adding to their list of standard equipment and the Sorento is no exception. Even the mid-range model I drove came with roof rails, Bluetooth, auxillary and USB audio inputs, tilt and telescopic steering wheel with audio controls, a CD-MP3 player, and so on.

Rear view camera with a monitor in the rear-view mirror, parking sensors, fog lamps, sat-nav, leather seats, and a panoramic sunroof are features that pile up as you climb up the range. Mood lighting, a DVD system for the second row, and of course the third row seating package come at the top of the range.

The interior is not disappointing either, the dashboard and the centre stack are well laid out. However, the black expanse of the dash is a trifle too dull, and some of the surfaces and materials could be better.

Driving

Kia is apparently making the three-spoke steering wheel a trademark feature. It is light, and yet does not leave you feeling like you're holding a piece of sponge.

The driver's seating position is great. The seats are a little hard, but I didn't experience any discomfort in the short hauls. The new Sorento is available in two engine choices - a 2.4-litre 4-cylinder engine that pumps out 174hp with 225Nm of torque, while a 3.5-litre V6 produces 277hp and 335Nm of torque. I drove the 2.4-litre version and found it perfectly adequate, able to keep up on the highway, and zippy enough in the city.

The ride is comfortable and smooth. There were not many opportunities to test it off-road due to time constraints, but then it is not meant for such activity either.

In fact, you may want to go for the two-wheel drive version with its lower weight and enhanced fuel economy. The 4WD drivetrain would better suit those who need to tow trailers, or do mild off-roading.

The all-wheel disc braking system is more than adequate. The ABS (anti-lock braking system) and EBD brake force distribution systems are available as options.

At 37 cubic feet the 5-seater has quite a roomy cargo area. With the second row of seats down, it expands to 72.5 cubic feet. This includes a cleverly concealed cargo space under the floor.

The new Sorento also boasts a major improvement in minimising its noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) levels. In other words, good fun on the highways.

The verdict? The original Sorento was an unassuming, practical and very well-equipped traditional SUV. And now it's become a slightly jazzier, practical and very well-equipped crossover. Not a bad package at all, starting at Dh79,000.