With an opportunity to test drive a Kia Sorento for a week earlier this month, I can summarize by saying…I want one. Although I purchased an SUV for myself and my family earlier this year, a quick test drive around the block did not prepare me for how dirty black interior becomes with kids. More importantly, I never installed the car seat on the test drive. The fact that the seat belts are located so deep into the seat that I physically have to move them every time I put the kids in the car makes me want to run back to the dealership kicking and screaming. When Kia Motors sponsored Reviewer’s Retreat in June, I got a glimpse of the Sorento and liked what I saw. An SUV with 3rd row seating, which I now miss about my current car, it looked sharp, but would it withstand the ultimate test?
On our first evening with the 2013 Kia Sorento we headed to How to Train Your Dragon Live and the kids were excited about the “new car.” Initially, I was elated to be able to easily buckle the seat belt with booster seat. Hitting the road the bells and whistles were fun too–BLUETOOTH meant my phone synced in an instant, for instance. While this particular car was equipped with Navigation with built-in Sirius XM replaced UVO technology, they both function similarly by allowing owners to use voice control and a color touch screen to play music, answer the phone and more. I LOVE this and was more than a little sad to get back into my own car, scrolling through navigation the old-fashioned way.
A few days later on a road trip with three other mom friends, everyone had an opinion (and wanted their own Kia Sorento). Some of our favorite features included:
- Rear camera display
- Back up warning system
- Air conditioned driver’s seat
- Roomy back seat
- Easily folding 3rd row seat
- Power folding side view mirrors
- Panoramic sunroof for passengers
- Remote Keyless Entry
Having recently purchased a vechicle, it may not be feasible for me to make the switch. However, as soon as I’m able to do so, I’m sold. I never expected to miss 3rd row seating with two children…but I do. The Kia Sorento is is a sharp looking, practical family vehicle getting a lot of buzz for good reason.
Cool Tip
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I find this car very confortable and good looking, too. If I were to change my car, Kia would be on the list.