The 2017 Kia Sorento stays true to its high-value roots, but it's grown up in refinement and comfort. Kia Sorento received a full redesign, with completely new sheet metal, a new body structure, a newly available turbocharged inline-4 engine, plus modest gains in interior space and major gains in general cabin comfort and ride quality.
Pros Tight, "vault-like" feel Generous feature set Responsive, economical 2.0T Quiet cabin
Cons Short, bench-like second-row seats Can't get a third-row seat and turbo-4 engine together Active-safety features not widely available
The 2017 Kia Sorento ranks 1 out of 18 Midsize SUVs. The 2017 Kia Sorento is a versatile crossover that rates highly in a competitive class thanks to a powerful V6 engine, many user-friendly tech features, and the availability of third-row seats. It also has excellent safety and reliability ratings, and its low starting price makes it a great value.
Pros Easy to use infotainment system Potent V6 engine Stable handling Quality interior
Cons Weak standard engine Limited options for base model
The 2017 Sorento can now be had with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration, along with a couple of new safety features (adaptive headlights and automatic emergency braking). Also, the EX 2.0T gets standard shift paddles, but the SX Limited is no longer offered with the 2.0T engine.
Pros Controls are easy to operate Cabin is well-made and attractive Second-row seats are versatile and comfortable Strong value proposition Excellent warranty Top crash-test scores.
Cons Turbo engine isn't as punchy or efficient as expected Most seven-passenger competitors offer more interior space.
The 2018 BMW X3 ventures into M territory, but doesn’t lose sight of its SUV duties.
Pros Nimble, sedan-like handling Excellent interior space and storage Great turbo-6 powertrain Standard all-wheel drive M40i a blast to drive
Cons Base 6.5-inch infotainment display Forward-collision warnings an option World’s most expensive Apple CarPlay Off-road? More all-weather
Though it has sporty handling, powerful engines, and roomy seats, the fully redesigned 2018 BMW X3 is only a midpack luxury compact SUV. Its drawbacks include a higher-than-average starting price and fewer standard features than the competition.
Pros Agile handling Strong engine lineup Spacious cargo area and cabin Premium interior
Cons Above-average starting price Minimal standard luxury features
