Kia Sorento

It also gained responsive handling and a steady, albeit stiff ride. The interior benefited from comfortable seats, easy to use controls, Bluetooth connectivity and lots of features for the money. High-end versions came with a large sunroof. Both the base four cylinder and the optional V6 returned 20-mpg overall in our tests. The pick of the range is an EX V6, which has a nicer interior and benefits from a slick V6 offering the same fuel economy as the four-cylinder. 2014 update brought a lively and refined new V6, a new electric power steering system, revisions to the suspension and interior upgrades. The new instrument panel and control layout are easy to manage. Comprehensive infotainment and in-car communications are available too and work well.  Overall, the Sorento is a good used car choice that's just as functional as larger three-row SUVs, but without the bulk.

It was good for towing, but a rough and tumble nature make this version an unpleasant choice as an everyday driver. The harsh ride is brutal, with bumps and ruts slamming into the cabin. Handling is also clumsy, although ultimately secure. The Sorento was initially powered by a 3.5-liter V6, which was upgraded to a 262-hp 3.8-liter for 2007. Either way, acceleration was quite spirited. But at 17 mpg overall, expect to pay at the pump. Low-range gearing makes it competent off-road, but it only has a part-time four-wheel drive system, which requires engaging and disengaging 4WD. This can be inconvenient, as you have to stop to make the change.