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All-Around Impressive is the Word for the 2016 Kia Sorento SX V6 AWD – Car Review

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2016-kia

Kia has become synonymous with solid performance and strong value, and the 2016 Kia Sorento SX V6 AWD extends this reputation, but throws in extra toughness for good measure. And talk about a luxurious, smooth ride…

First impressions are, er, impressive with the 2016 Kia Sorento SX V6 AWD. The large grille and substantial tires immediately catch your eye, even as the smooth cuves draw you in further. The full array of LED positioning lights, taillamps, and fog lamps round out the package for improved aerodynamics.

As a midsize SUV, the 2016 Kia Sorento SX V6 AWD adds more room, mostly for the passengers in the second and third rows, without feeling bulky. At the same time, it keeps the same sleek styling, high-grade materials, and chrome accents, so that observers see only a smart, handsome vehicle that can take on a considerable load of cargo and passengers. However, the low price tag can still be your secret.

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The quality is no less impressive inside the cabin, with soft, silky materials all around, anywhere a passenger might touch. You have to love the overall organization of the car’s controls, too; to adjust climate or navigation/audio, go to the nice, neat section on the dash. As with earlier models, a third-row seat is available as an option, bumping the capacity from five to seven.

With the third row in position, you can still tuck in a couple of carry-on suitcases or three to five paper grocery bags. Oddly, the second row is the least comfortable for adults, but it could be good for the kids. This fits right in with the 2016 Kia Sorento SX V6 AWD appeal as a family mover.

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Speaking of family concerns, the 2016 Kia Sorento SX V6 AWD comes with a full array of airbags, including front seat-mounted side airbags, side curtain airbags with a rollover sensor, and front active headrests. You’ll also find electronic stability control anti-lock brakes with electronic brake-force distribution, and Hill-Start Assist.

Smart High-Tech Safety Features

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sorento_2016Certain models now come with warning systems for backup, blind spots, and rear cross-traffic. The top models add warning systems for lane departures and forward collisions, as well as an around-view monitor and smart cruise control.

One of the most impressive safety features is the Blind-Spot Detection (BSD); which senses a vehicle or object in your blind spot, and the system will warn you with a visual signal on your side mirror.

Overall, the Sorento earns “good” crash-test results from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, along with a five-star rating from the government. Combined with the all-new reinforced structure underpinning the vehicle, the Sorento has notably stepped up its commitment to occupant safety.

Kia has always been known for its value-to-feature ratio, and the 2016 Kia Sorento SX V6 AWD delivers in this regard. As noted in its name, the 2016 Kia Sorento SX V6 AWD offers all-wheel drive and a V6 engine, but also includes the likes of a heated steering wheel, heated rear seats, heated-and-ventilated front seats, push-button start, an enhanced meter cluster, stainless sill plates, a power liftgate, 19-inch gunmetal alloys, and various interior trim upgrades.

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Except for the base L, every model of the 2016 Kia Sorento includes UVO eServices, which covers geo-fencing, Speed Alert, Curfew Alert, and Driving Score, the kind of features parents with teenagers will find particularly useful. Smartphone users can access apps for Yelp, Pandora, and, along with Siri Eyes Free compatibility and Google Local Search.

One more feature that deserves its own mention: Separate rear air conditioning controls are available in the SX. No fighting over air flow!

The 2016 Kia Sorento SX V6 AWD offers plenty of horsepower, allowing you to make moves in traffic without scaring your passengers. The steering, too, feels smoother, and braking is more assured, with better response to the driver. As a driver, you’ll notice more confidence, surefootedness, and control when you’re behind the wheel. You may not want to go off-roading the Sorento, but it can handle snow and towing loads quite well. The Sorento V6 AWD can take on up to 5,000 pounds of cargo.

Unlike many of its competitors, the Sorento doesn’t offer a hybrid model. Instead, you’ll get the usual gasoline direct-injection engine. With the 2016 Kia Sorento SX V6 AWD, you can expect 17 mpg city, 25 mpg highway, which is an improvement over earlier models. For all of this, you’re looking at a price tag of around $39,000.

Looking for a family car with a little extra room, a little extra power, and a few extra features, but doesn’t cost an arm and a leg? The 2016 Kia Sorento SX V6 AWD fits the bill, offering style and comfort atop a solid, strong body at a reasonable price. Take the kids, the in-laws, and the neighbors for a lift in the 2016 Kia Sorento SX V6 AWD — this is a car worth bragging about.

www.Kia.com

About the author

Jane Emery