| Overall Rating |
 |
| Description |
| Sorento is a value-for-money family 4x4 that's very able off-road and looks quite stylish. But it's not so good on road, and the hard suspension can be uncomfortable at times. |
| Handling |
|
| Comfort |
|
| Quality & Reliability |
|
| Performance |
|
| Roominess |
 |
| Running Costs |
|
| Value for Money |
|
| Stereo/Sat Nav |
|
| NCAP |
| 4 |
| Best Models |
| 2.5 turbodiesel |
| Worst Models |
| thirsty 3.5 V6 petrol |
| Replacement |
| 2010 |
|
 |
| Road Test |
| Just because a car has a badge you don't recognise doesn't mean it isn't any good. Sorento proves that it's possible to be pleasantly surprised by an outsider and a relative newcome to the 4x4 scene. Low retail prices bring a smile to buyers' faces; you get a full sized 4x4 for the price of a smaller one. Yet it doesn't look cut-price and is purposefully handsome. Like more expensive 4 x 4s, Sorento has a long equipment list, making it very safe and luxurious benefits that don't smack of cost-cutting. It looks muscular, suggesting that it should be good off-road. And it is, with lots of mechanical and electrical gadgets to help it make progress in the rough stuff. On tarmac it is more of a compromise, with very firm suspension that bounces occupants about on poor roads. But the cabin looks quite smart, and there's loads of room inside. |
| Positive Points |
- Capable family 4x4 at affordable prices
- High equipment levels add to value argument
- Willing engines promise good reliability
|
| Negative Points |
- Ride is less refined that some rivals
- 3.5 V6 is rather thirsty
- Heavier depreciation than CR-V or Freelander
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