Korean automotive manufacturer, KIA, has been on the up-and-up, churning out contemporary, tech-rich and solidly hewn propositions. From the diminutive but spunky Picanto to the subject of this article - the mid-size, seven seater Sorento SUV. Now in its fourth generation, the Sorento has always offered a sizable SUV at the price of a slightly smaller premium segment rival. That golden thread has continued right up to the outgoing third generation.  

Of course, things haven’t always been this rosy nor ideal for the model, with the first generation, from my recollections, being somewhat of a crudish, rough-around-the-edges offering that was average at best. This was not helped by the fact that its underpinnings were of the bakkie-esque, ladder frame chassis, which meant it was incredible off-road, but lacked finesse and body control on the blacktop. 

Things took an about turn when the second generation broke cover in 2009, bringing with it a monocoque structure that highlighted the model’s sumptuous ride quality on-road. It was offered in both 2.2-litre turbo diesel and a 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine with the former proving, naturally, the thriftier of the two. With seven genuine seats it was also one of the most spacious vehicles in its class. 

The third generation, in my view, truly cemented the Sorento’s prowess by offering an even more complete package. While still offering the versatility that comes with a seven seat configuration, it still managed to bring a handsome package brimming with the latest technology. However, enter the latest - fourth generation - model and I feel that the Korean manufacturer has truly and succinctly turned the proverbial corner. Why do I say this? Well, let me elucidate.

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