USED Kia Sorento 4x4 (03 - 10)

My car

I bought a used Kia Sorento from a local Evans Halshaw garage and in my opinion got a bargin. I phased a '56 XE model with 5k on the clock for just over £12k. The car was initially bought to tow our 22ft caravan so I didn't expect the refinement and comfort the Kia provides. In a word it's excellent. The gear box is smooth and gear changes are precise throughout the range. Steering is light and deliberate and the vehicle holds the road as well as some smaller cars. I liked the Sorento before I towed with it, now I love it. It has all the raw grunt and power I expected with the quality and comfort of a top of the range family saloon. Best 4x4 on the market in it's price range.

My car

We were looking for a diesel car to tow a 1700kg twin axle caravan and considered a number of options. I am 6' 5" tall, and I just managed to squeeze in the Disco 2, but the styling is a disappointment. The latest Disco looks too much like a Transit. The BMW X5 was too much of a Sloane Ranger and the Touareg too expensive to run and service.

However, the Sorento ticked all the boxes. I climbed in, made myself comfortable and drove away for a very pleasant test drive. I chose the auto box to avoid an overworked left leg while towing and found the XS level of trim is more than sufficient. It tows the caravan with no problems whatsoever, and pulled out of a soggy site following a rain storm without a problem.

If you are going to spend time behind the wheel, you have to 'engage' with the car; I did just that. The Sorento is solid, reliable and friendly. That's it; it's friendly.

My car

Almost bought a Freelander! Thank god I read the reviews in 'What Car?'.Questioned the dealer amd he confirmed the problems existed but only up until 06 models.

Walked away & purchased a Sorento - What joy! Very high Spec, quality ride,enough space in the cabin for six footers like me, feels safe & secure, a boot big enough to get all of "Billy the Kids" baby equipment in & more.

Also cheaper to buy & better on fuel efficiency than the slightly more popular Freelander (not for long). The steering is a little light, but you need it when parking such a large vehicle.

Doesn't have the kudos of the Freelander but who cares - I love it!

Thank you all you Freelander & Sorento reviewers!!

I owe you.

My car

Purchased mainly to tow a large caravan which it does with ease - I wish I'd had an excuse to buy one a long time ago.

A great drive and well equipped - good value for your money. Looks great as well - better than most if not all 4X4s (but then I would think that - I bought one). No problems so far except for a tailgate that won't lock with the remote - I have to use the key.

Decided on an auto version as it's so much more relaxing - allows you to concentrate on the road more (in my humble opinion). Just under 3 years old and 25k on the clock - I'm already planning to upgrade to a newer version in a couple of years time.

I'll follow with additional comments when I've experienced Kia service.