Kia Sorento

OUR PICK 2.2 CRDi KX-2 AWD (2015/65, 46k miles, £17,995)

IT’S back-to-back wins for the Sorento in our Used Large SUV category, and it’s not hard to see why. Combining a spacious seven-seat interior with genuine premium appeal and a bargain price tag, the Kia is one of the best family cars you can buy.

The first model from the Korean brand to have upmarket rivals firmly in its sights, the third-generation Sorento was a much more premium machine from Kia. Smart styling helps it stand out from the crowd, but it’s the interior that gives the car its edge here. High-quality materials and a top-notch finish are bolstered by loads of space, with even the thirdrow seats being okay for adults on shorter journeys.

You won’t be wanting for kit, with mid-spec KX-2 models delivering everything you’re likely to need, including heated leather seats, a seven-inch infotainment screen and a raft of driver-assistance technology. And of course, newer versions will still be covered by Kia’s seven-year warranty, bringing extra peace of mind. Engine choice is limited to the gutsy 2.2-litre diesel, which is a bit noisy at idle but smooths out at speed. Four-wheel drive is standard, while on the road the Sorento delivers secure handling and a composed ride. A six-speed manual gearbox is standard, but it’s worth seeking out the slick eight-speed auto because it better suits the Kia’s relaxed on-road personality.

Of course, running costs are slightly higher than on more modern machines, but the big four-cylinder diesel is still capable of 40mpg if driven with restraint, while servicing and maintenance costs undercut premium brands. Better still, steeper depreciation when new means the Sorento comfortably undercuts the competition on price now; you’ll struggle to get more for your money anywhere else.

If you need to accommodate a growing family and also want a bit of SUV glamour on a budget, then the

Kia Sorento really does takes some beating.

ON THE ROAD Diesel engine gives reasonable economy, while we’d go for the auto gearbox

High-quality materials and a classy finish give the well equipped Sorento an upmarket feel INTERIOR

SEVEN SEATS The third row of many seven-seaters is only suitable for kids, but adults can use the Kia’s for short trips

COMFORT There’s plenty of leg and headroom in Sorento’s second row, plus leather seats and a panoramic glass roof