Used tow car: Kia Sorento
Spacious, economical and reliable, the latest Sorento ticks all the boxes as a good tow car, says Euan Doig
Now in its third generation, Kia’s Sorento is a spacious and reliable tow car, and there are lots around to choose from
FOR A MODEL that epitomises the advances Kia has made over the past 15 years, you need look no further than the Sorento. The first-generation version looked reasonably attractive, but was decidedly agricultural underneath. It had some off-road ability, but the noisy, breathless engine and harsh ride meant trendy urban types would look at it askance. The second-generation car was much better, especially inside, where the materials were a great improvement, and the on-road driving experience bore little relation to that of its predecessor. But its looks were somewhat staid – so Kia still had work to do. And so we come to the Mk3 Sorento, which looks and drives better, and is more pleasant to be in than its predecessors. This current model is worth a look, even if your main target is a premium-brand SUV. Kia has also taken something of a ‘sling everything at it’ stance on standard equipment. Basically, if the car doesn’t have it, then you don’t need it.
Model history
The original Kia Sorento was acceptable, and its replacement was good but not great; now this third model is another step forward, with numerous attributes that should make tow car buyers sit up and take note. First and foremost, however, petrol-power enthusiasts should look away now, because there’s nothing for you here. The line-up was and is dieselonly. In fact, there’s been just one engine on offer throughout the car’s life: a 197bhp fourcylinder 2.2-litre diesel. As standard, it’s linked to a six-speed manual gearbox that can be a bit notchy. However, a six-speed automatic gearbox was also available, which is reasonably smooth and quick to change. An auto-equipped version has a 2000kg towing limit, compared with the manual car’s 2500kg limit; but in reality, it’s still more than enough for the needs of most people, and is the reason why we’d recommend prospective buyers seek out an auto, instead of the manual.
Late in 2018, this six-speed auto was swapped for an eightspeed self-shifter, which is even better: not only is it silky during changes, but it also enhances the car’s efficiency. To this end, while the big Kia isn’t exactly teetotal, it sips rather than glugs diesel – even the auto version will manage an average of 43.5mpg. Servicing is extremely cheap, too, with a major service setting you back just £154.83. As a tow car on the road, the Sorento ticks many boxes. It remains stable on faster roads, and the electric parking brake means it is unfazed by hill starts. It stops quickly and in a straight line, and copes well in sudden lane changes. The Sorento has relatively soft suspension; it gives the car a good ride both laden and unhitched (although we would advise avoiding cars with larger alloys), but does allow the body to lean over rather too much in cornering or emergency swerves. Noise isn’t a problem, either: whether you’re stopping and starting in town, accelerating between corners on a twistier road, or simply cruising along on a motorway, the engine keeps itself to itself. Road and wind noise remain firmly in the background, too. This latest Sorento is a big car on the outside, and the good news is that this translates into excellent cabin space for five people and luggage. Up front, there’s loads of head- and legroom, and three people in the middle row needn’t have to be on speaking terms. Better still, the Sorento can cater for a couple of extra (small) occupants in two more seats that fold up from the boot floor. An adult might fit in there for a short trip, but they won’t be your friend by the time you reach where you’re going. As mentioned, all Sorentos are well-kitted, with even base models coming with air-con, rear parking sensors and alloy wheels. KX-2 trim adds leather trim, sat-nav and dual-zone climate control. On younger examples, you’ll find upgraded audio, with Bluetooth, Apple Carplay and Android Auto, and on higher trim levels, a 10-speaker Harman Kardon system with subwoofer.
Trouble spots
The Sorento has been subject to just one recall in its life, when a rubber fuel pipe was discovered to be prone to hardening and cracking that could eventually cause fuel to leak over the engine. Otherwise, there’s almost nothing to worry about. As a brand, Kia traditionally does well in reliability surveys, and this one has thrown up nothing to counter those results. Better still, even the earliest Mk3s are still covered by Kia’s seven-year warranty from new. This all means that condition should be the main governor of your search. There are plenty of examples out there, so take your time to find the one in the best condition for your budget.
Verdict
This third-generation Sorento really does tick most of the boxes for people who regularly tow. It’s suitably large, so five people can travel in comfort, and there’s space for everything they need in the boot. It keeps them in comfort and won’t cost a fortune to run. Any Sorento remains entirely unfussed with a large trailer attached, and is unlikely to leave you stranded by the side of the road. And if it does, you should be able to call on your warranty to put things right.