Kia Sorento vs. the competition

A staple in the sport utility vehicle (SUV) market, the Kia Sorento is a vehicle that combines style, practicality, and a dash of Korean charm.

It is known for its spacious interior, impressive safety features, and a ride that can make even the pothole-filled roads feel like a pleasant cruise. If you are looking for a family-friendly SUV that does not compromise on performance, the Sorento is a good choice for you.

With seating for up to seven passengers, the Sorento ensures that no one gets left behind on your adventures.

Under the hood of the Sorento is a 2.2-liter Smartstream engine that churns out up to 199 horsepower (hp) and 441 Newton-meters (Nm) of torque. It is mated to an eight-speed Smartstream dual clutch transmission.

If safety is your top priority, the Sorento has got you covered with a suite of advanced driver-assistance features that includes cruise control, blind spot detection, lane keeping assist, forward collision avoidance assist, rear cross traffic alert, parking distance warning, and 360-degree surround camera.

The Sorento is priced from P2.448 million to P2.648 million.

Since the SUV segment is filled with a range of options, the Sorento still faces tough competition despite its impressive features. Let us take a look at the Sorento’s main competitors and see how it can match up against them.

Toyota Fortuner

The Toyota Fortuner is known for its rugged exterior and off-road capabilities, making it a popular choice among adventure-seekers and those who need a vehicle that can handle rough terrains. With its reputation for reliability, it is no wonder the Fortuner has become a household name in the local SUV market.

While the Fortuner is best known for its excellent off-road capabilities, it also offers a spacious cabin that can accommodate up to seven people and comes with a ton of modern technological features.

There are two engine options available for the Fortuner: a 2.4-liter turbocharged engine that produces 147 hp and 400 Nm of torque, and a 2.8-liter turbocharged engine that delivers 201 hp and 500 Nm of torque. The base variant gets a six-speed manual transmission, while the other variants come with a six-speed automatic gearbox.

The Fortuner comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense features such as pre-collision system, lane departure alert, adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitor, and rear cross traffic alert.

When it comes to pricing, the Fortuner sits at a lower price point compared to the Sorento as it only costs P1.764 million-P2.645 million.

Mitsubishi Montero Sport

The Mitsubishi Montero Sport has gained a strong following for its rugged performance and reliability. It offers a stylish exterior and a comfortable interior, making it an attractive option for many buyers.

Inside the Montero Sport, you will find a spacious and well-designed cabin that can accommodate up to seven people.

Under the hood, the Montero Sport is equipped with a smooth and efficient 2.4-liter diesel engine that churns out 178 hp and 430 Nm of torque. It is available in six-speed manual and eight-speed automatic variants.

To ensure safe and confident driving, the Montero Sport comes standard with forward collision mitigation, blind spot warning, ultrasonic misacceleration mitigation system, rear cross traffic alert, and multi around monitor.

In terms of pricing, the Montero Sport is also offered at a lower price range than the Sorento as it retails for only P1.568 million-P2.428 million.

Ford Everest

If you are looking for a robust and capable SUV, the Ford Everest is definitely worth considering. With its tough and muscular appearance, this SUV grabs attention on the road.

Inside, the Everest features a well-appointed cabin with plenty of space for up to seven people. The SUV also comes equipped with advanced technology features, including a 12-inch touchscreen infotainment system.

There are two engine options for the Everest: a powerful 2.0-liter turbocharged diesel engine that produces 167 hp and 405 Nm of torque, and a 2.0-liter bi-turbo diesel engine that delivers 207 hp and 500 Nm of pulling power. The top-of-the-line variant gets a 10-speed automatic transmission, while the other variants come with a six-speed automatic gearbox.

The Everest comes standard with advanced driver assist technologies such as adjustable speed limiter, adaptive cruise control, auto high beam, autonomous emergency braking, pre-collision assist, dynamic brake support, distance indication alert, forward collision warning system, post impact braking, lane departure warning, lane keeping aid, driver alert system, blind spot information system, 360-degree camera, reverse brake assist, and Active Park Assist 2.0.

In terms of pricing, the Ford Everest also costs slightly lower than the Sorento as it retails for P1.799 million-P2.525 million.

Final thoughts

The Kia Sorento indeed faces tough competition from various SUV models in the local market. The Toyota Fortuner, Mitsubishi Montero Sport, and Ford Everest all offer their unique strengths, features, and price points. Whichever you choose among these models, you are guaranteed a reliable and capable SUV that will accompany you on whatever adventure you take.

Photos from Kia Philippines, Toyota Motor Philippines, Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corporation, and Ford Philippines

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