Before the holidays, the 4 Hats family had the pleasure of taking a one week test drive in the 2014 Kia Sorento. After our rave review (and rap video) about the Kia Sportage, I was looking forward to finally reviewing this coveted family vehicle.
When it comes to space, the Kia Sorento is very similar to the Sportage. From what I could tell, the amount of space was very similar. While the specs say that the Sorento offers more room, we found for our family of four that it was the same amount as the Sportage. Due the the third row, it may seem that there is more interior space, but I found that was a misnomer.
We are a family on the lookout for a safe and roomy third row, so I was excited to check out the third row in the Sorento. Unfortunately, I found that the leg room was left to be desired, and the row was way too close to the trunk. If we were to get into an accident and had a driver hit us from the back, I don’t think there would be great protection for my 8 year old who loves to ride in the third row. I actually rode in the back myself to get a feel of it, and felt a bit unprotected and claustrophobic. While the Sportage doesn’t have a third row, the feel of the interior was open and secure.
The ride of the Sorento was similar to the Sportage as well, with it being smooth and easy. I think most Kias offer this luxury. I’ve yet to encounter one that didn’t offer a smooth ride and great maneuvering through highway traffic. I also love the gas mileage of the Sorento. I was able to drive all over the place, including all the way from North New Jersey to Atlantic City, without filling back up the gas tank. Kia and good gas mileage just go together.
All and all, I’d say the Kia Sorento was an OK ride, but we really enjoyed the Sportage better. It think if we were planning to only use the third row for emergencies, then we would be all about purchasing the Sorento for our growing family.
Have you test driven a Kia vehicle? What did you think?
Disclosure: We were offered a test drive by Kia. No monetary compensation was issued. All opinions are my own.
Sweet ride! Almost tempts me back to minivans, and that’s saying a lot!
It’s actually an SUV! I’m not a minivan gal, so we’ve been having fun checking out SUVs and crossovers to see if they’ll fit our growing family.
Hmm, you are winning me over. My husband drives a crossover and we really like it.
How fun. Most of been difficult to return it after a week.