Overview
The 2012 Kia Sorento is a crossover with many options which would usually be more suitable for a higher luxury class model. With a large amount of cargo storage, it still offers carlike construction in handling and agility. The latest overhaul of the model was in 2011 and has allowed the addition of a Microsoft infotainment system. You can choose from four cylinder or six cylinder configurations for the engine to get the power and speed you need.
Pricing
The price for the 2012 Kia Sorento goes from the LX model at $21,250 to the SX model at $33,150. Options like the panoramic sunroof will add to the cost of the vehicle.
The 2012 Kia Sorento has a few different trims including: LX, EX, EX V6, and SX.
Specs
The 2012 Kia Sorento LX includes a tilt-and-telescoping multifunction steering wheel, CD sound system with satellite radio, a trip computer, full power accessories, cruise control, 17-inch alloy wheels, Bluetooth connectivity, a 6-speed manual transmission, air-conditioning, an auxiliary audio jack, and an iPod adapter. There is an optional Convenience package which includes rear parking sensors, a back-up camera with a rearview-mirror-mounted display, heated front seats, roof rails, fog lamps, and a more powerful four-cylinder engine for front-wheel-drive models (FWD). If opting for the V6 model, this same package will also include some third row seating.
The Sorento EX has everything you’ll find in the LX along with a leather-wrapped steering wheel, rear parking sensors, Kia’s Uvo voice-activated electronics interface (it’s similar to Ford’s Sync), a power driver’s seat (with power lumber support), keyless ignition/entry, dual-zone automatic climate control (with rear air-conditioning on V6 models), leather wrapped shift knob, and 18-inch alloy wheels. The EX has a Premium package which includes leather seating, heated front seats, power-folding outside mirrors, 10-speaker Infinity surround-sound audio system with digital music storage, a hard-drive-based navigation system, rearview camera, and a power front passenger seat.
The SX model comes with everything you can get in the best EX V6 package along with a different body style, sport-tuned suspension, and a metallic trim for the interior.
The 2012 Kia Sorento offers 175 horsepower from the 2.4L four cylinder engine. Direct injection of this engine allows an increase in horsepower to 191, which is offered as an option in the LX and EX models. 6-speed manual transmission is standard for the base models, and for the rest of the models they offer a 6-speed automatic. Base lines go from zero to 60 in 9.9 seconds.
Review
The 2012 Kia Sorento is a great crossover for those looking for a large and affordable crossover. It is perfect for families of all sizes with the ability to have a full sized third row seating. The power and control of the vehicle put it in the same class as the Toyota Highlander as well as the Honda CR-V. It is a good choice for those looking for decent gas mileage as well as those looking for affordable car payments. It is a versatile vehicle which will allow you to enjoy driving in the city just as much as any minor off-road excursions.
Safety
The 2012 Kia Sorento offers safety features beyond the antilock brakes which offer stopping power from 60 to zero in 120 feet. Hill decent control, stability control, and hill-start assist make sure that the vehicle is safe for passengers. The side curtain airbags only cover the first and second row of seating, while the front and side impact are awarded four stars. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has rated it as “good” for roof-strength, side-impact and frontal-offset crash tests.
