The 2021 Kia Sorento crossover SUV strikes out in a new styling direction, and brings hybrid and plug-in models along for the adventure.
PROS More expressive Available hybrid powertrains Bigger interior More square inches of touchscreen
CONS What’s with the door tooth? Third-row seat’s very, very small More noise More hard plastic in the cabin
The Sorento is all new for 2021, with a starting price that's $2450 higher than last year. Its boxier proportions and bolder styling mark a stark departure from the curvier and softer appearance of the outgoing Sorento. In addition to riding on an all-new platform that's bigger inside and out, the new Sorento adds a hybrid powertrain as well as an eventual plug-in variant.We like the EX trim level. It's pricier than the bottom two models, but it comes standard with the more powerful 281-hp turbo-four. It also has nicer amenities than the S trim below it that include leatherette upholstery, heated front seats, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, remote start, and snazzier styling such as 18-inch wheels and black exterior accents.
The redesigned 2022 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross has comfortable seats and some easy-to-use tech features, but it isn’t as modern, refined, or upscale as many of its compact SUV competitors.
Pros Responsive infotainment controls Comfortable seats Great warranty Less expensive than its classmates
Cons Outmoded, low-rent interior Antiquated infotainment interface Subpar cargo capacity Less athletic than rivals
After skipping over the 2021 model year, Mitsubishi has given the Eclipse Cross a styling revision for 2022 that includes modernized front- and rear-end treatments. A sleeker-looking rear liftgate eliminates the odd split-rear window design of previous model years.
Pros Serene highway cruising, plentiful cargo space, long standard warranty coverage.
Cons Middling acceleration, disappointing fuel efficiency, base model is awfully basic.
Pros Long list of standard features Peppy city driving performance Easy-to-use infotainment system
Cons Subpar handling abilities Disappointing fuel economy
