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- Upmarket feel inside and out
- Terrific ride quality
- Responsive, natural steering
- High value
- Solid, quiet feel
Dislikes
- Second row sits too low
- Turbo-4 engine bites the dust for 2019
- Don’t bother with the base engine
Buying tip
The 2019 Kia Sorento is a right-sized, well-priced three-row crossover SUV for those who can skimp a little on third-row space.
Think of the 2019 Kia Sorento as the shortstop of crossover SUVs. This three-row crossover does just about everything well, and some things even better for 2019 thanks to some tweaks to its suspension and steering. It’s roomy, comes standard with three rows of seats, offers a sophisticated V-6 engine teamed to a new 8-speed automatic, and well-priced.
There’s a lot to commend with the 2019 Sorento, no matter which version you choose: L, LX, EX, SX, or SXL. Overall, we rate it at 6.2 out of 10, a score that could improve once the latest Sorento is crash-tested. (Read more about how we rate cars.)
This year, the Sorento’s styling has been updated—but so subtly that it hardly renders the outgoing version yesterday’s news. The smooth, well-detailed design looks especially good in higher trim levels with their bold LED fog lights up front and alloy wheels that grow from 17 inches in base models up to 18- and 19-inchers on EX and higher trim levels.
Inside, the cabin is well-organized and composed of soft-touch materials with a low sheen. Even at around $27,000, the base Sorento L doesn’t look or feel cheap inside. There’s decent room, but the Sorento’s 7-passenger capacity implies that not all the children are above average. The second row is low and not shaped for long-distance comfort. The newly standard third? row is not better, but our expectations are lower; there’s good room for two teenagers back there. The Sorento is smaller than some of its rivals, like the Toyota Highlander, so there’s less room for cargo aboard. What’s there is usable, though, and with up to about 73 cubic feet of overall cargo capacity, the Sorento should fulfill most needs.
Underhood, L and LX trims come with a lowly 4-cylinder engine and a choice of front- or all-wheel drive. EX and higher trims are fitted with a more desirable 290-horsepower 3.3-liter V-6 that shuttles power to either the front or all four wheels via an 8-speed automatic transmission that has two more gears than last year’s. The engine is smooth and powerful, but no replacement for the strong turbo-4 that was optional, albeit not very popular with buyers, last year. What the Sorento begs for is a hybrid powertrain since its fuel economy figures don’t impress as much as its driving manners. The newly tuned steering is crisp and precise, almost enough for drivers to forget that they’re hustling a three-row crossover on a twisty road. The firm suspension doesn’t feel stiff. It feels more like an Audi Q7 than an affordable crossover.
The latest Sorento hasn’t been crash-tested, but we see little reason that last year’s impressive figures won’t carry over. Kia hasn’t followed Toyota and Honda, among others, in making collision-avoidance tech like automatic emergency braking standard across the line. You’ll find that gear on EX and higher trim levels only. Otherwise, the feature count is good. A big infotainment screen that’s Apple and Android compatible leads the way. Pop for the Sorento SXL and the roughly $45,000 sticker price might induce some shock, but the soft, heated and cooled nappa leather and 10-speaker Harman Kardon audio system seem worth the price.
The 2019 Kia Sorento strikes a pose, especially in higher trim levels.
With its 2019 Sorento, Kia takes some passenger car cues and upsizes everything. The Sorento is a high-riding, boxy crossover SUV, but it cuts a dashing shape outside. Inside, it’s a little more ordinary unless ordered in earth tones. Overall, we give the Sorento a 6 out of 10 here, with an extra point for its clean, classy exterior. (Read more about how we rate cars.)
The 2019 Kia Sorento gains new front and rear bumpers this year that hardly change its personality. This crossover’s grille is SUV-big without Escalade ostentation. Swept-back headlights flank the chrome-heavy grille. They’re projector-beams in most models, but Kia does offer LED headlights on high-spec variants. Below on most trim levels sits a four-light LED foglight housing that adds more visual interest. From the side, the Sorento is ordinary, although new wheel designs for 2019 brighten things up. Viewed from the rear, the Sorento’s high-mounted taillights push no boundaries but are well-integrated into the tailgate.
Inside, the Sorento’s cabin is dressed in nice materials and is pleasingly well-organized. It tries little new, which is just fine with us. A 7.0-inch touchscreen sits high on the dash, with climate controls arranged below. Toggle-style switches for the available heated and cooled seats look good on higher-spec variants, but serve as a reminder that you could have paid more for more on L and LX trims.
New this year are two earth-tone interior options on SX and SXLs, while all models get a redesigned steering wheel that could have come from an Audi.
The 2019 Kia Sorento rides and handles far better than a three-row crossover appliance should.
The 2019 Kia Sorento is either fleet of foot or it’s slower than molasses. Which version you’re in depends on what’s under its hood. Overall, we rate the lineup at 6 out of 10 points, with an extra for its above average ride and handling. We almost dial one back for the pokey 4-cylinder, but the optional V-6 is far more common on dealer lots. (Read more about how we rate cars.)
The base 2.4-liter inline-4 puts out a modest 185 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque, and it’s only offered only on L and LX trims with a 6-speed automatic. Skip it and consider the LX V6 trim level as the gateway to the lineup. At 290 hp and 252 lb-ft, the V-6 engine offers considerably more grunt and pairs well to a new 8-speed automatic with two more cogs than last year’s model. The turbo-4 that put some spice into last year’s Sorento is gone due to lack of demand.
The V-6 accelerates with little drama and rarely makes its presence known inside the Sorento’s cabin. Its 8-speed dance partner leads it along nicely, although we noticed some grumbling low-speed shifts in the pre-production models we tested. That our initial evaluation was at 9,000 feet above sea level may have something to do with that, too. All-wheel drive is on the options list for all but the base Sorento L and it provides good foul-weather grip and a convenient “lock” mode for deeper snow. With 7.3 inches of ground clearance, the Sorento rides high enough to conquer a Nor’easter, but it’s not an off-roader.
Headlining the updates for 2019 is what you can’t see: subtle changes to the suspension and especially the steering that improve handling. L, LX, and EX versions have steering that’s light and precise. The SX and SXL have their own tuning that’s just sublime, at least by three-row crossover standards. All have an exceptionally well-damped ride that adds confidence even over rutted pavement.
With all-wheel drive and the V-6 option, the Sorento can tug up to 5,000 pounds worth of trailer.
The right-size 2019 Kia Sorento isn’t the roomiest three-row crossover, but it has a classy feel inside.
The 2019 Kia Sorento has a classy feel inside and excellent front seats that belie its reasonable price tag. Unfortunately, the second row sits low to the floor and the third row comes up short against direct rivals that are larger outside.
Overall, we give the 2019 Sorento a 6 out of 10 for its comfort and quality. (Read more about how we rate cars.)
It’s worth pulling rank to sit up front in the Sorento. All versions of well-sculpted front seats with terrific support, while higher-trim versions even include a power-extendable thigh support for the driver. The fabric that’s standard on L and LX trims is fine, while the EX includes leather at a price that undercuts rivals. SXLs trade those hides for softer nappa leather.
Row two doesn’t score the same points. It’s wide enough for three, but the cushion is low to the floor and short on shaping. Adding insult to injury, the panoramic moonroof that can be fitted to EX and higher trims robs head room. The second row tilts forward for access to the third row, which is now standard on all Sorentos. There’s decent space for two back there, especially if they’re kids. Unlike a few rivals, though, the Sorento’s tight dimensions mean that a child seat can’t be left attached to the second row when it’s scooted forward for access to row three.
Overall cargo capacity is 73.0 cubic feet, which is on the low end for the Sorento’s segment. Particularly disappointing is the mere 11.3 cubes available behind the third row. However, the Sorento’s 189.0-inch overall length is more than half a foot shorter than some rivals, which means it’ll fit in more garages and parking spots. That’s a tradeoff worthwhile to many buyers.
Perhaps the most impressive aspect of the Sorento is its sense of solidity. On most trims, Kia makes good use of acoustic glass and sound deadening. The materials the automaker chooses have a pleasant low sheen and most surfaces have a soft, upmarket feel not seen in most rivals.
The 2019 Kia Sorento hasn’t been crash-tested yet,
The 2019 Kia Sorento is available with a full roster of safety gear, but we’re disappointed that not everything is standard equipment as on some rivals.
Last year, the Sorento earned five stars from the NHTSA, and this year it earns a Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS. Based on those scores, we're going to give it a 7, with a point deducted since it doesn't come with automatic emergency braking until you spend into the higher trim levels. (Read more about how we rate cars.)
All Sorentos have six airbags, stability control, and a rearview camera. Base L trims stop there, which helps explain a price tag of about $26,000.
The LX trim adds blind-spot monitors and rear cross-traffic alerts. Parking sensors are on the options list. Step up to the Sorento EX and Kia starts to pile on features that are standard on all Honda Pilots, Toyota Highlanders, and Nissan Pathfinders: forward-collision warnings with automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and active lane control.
Optional on the SX and standard on the SXL are automatic high-beam headlights and a surround-view camera system.
The 2019 Kia Sorento scores big points for its broad lineup and its good warranty.
A wide range of 2019 Kia Sorento trim levels is on offer, but not all the children are equal. We give the crossover lineup 8 out of 10 points, with extras above average for a great standard infotainment system, the decadent feel of the range-topping Sorento SX, and a terrific warranty. (Read more about how we rate cars.)
The Sorento L’s base price, around $26,000, makes it look appealing on paper, but it’s light on features—plus it’s only available with the underwhelming 4-cylinder engine and front-wheel drive. Three rows of seats and a 7.0-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility are standard equipment, but the Sorento L comes up short on luxuries otherwise. Step up to the Sorento LX and satellite radio, blind-spot monitors, rear cross-traffic alerts, two quick-charge USB ports, and an acoustic windshield are standard. The LX offers the V-6 engine as an option, where it is paired with a power passenger seat and automatic climate control.
Next up, the Sorento EX strikes a high value proposition with more acoustic glass, a 7.0-inch TFT screen in the instrument cluster, leather upholstery, heated front seats, a power tailgate, rear-seat climate control, and a slew of safety gear like automatic emergency braking and adaptive cruise control. A single option package pairs an 8.0-inch infotainment screen with Harman Kardon speakers and a panoramic moonroof on the EX.
The Sorento SX loads on larger wheels, unique exterior styling, a power passenger seat, Harman Kardon audio, and unique steering tuning. Topping the lineup at about $45,000, the Sorento SXL isn’t cheap—but it is well-equipped. Nappa leather seats that are cooled up front and heated in the first and second rows, a heated steering wheel, and LED headlights give it luxury car chops at a far lower price tag.
Kia added Sorento S and EX Sport trim levels between the LX and EX late in the 2019 model year. We'd skip these models, which feature 19-inch wheels that don't ride as well as the standard 18-inchers, wear tires that cost more to replace, and lack active safety tech we consider essential.
All Sorentos include a 10-year, 100,000-mile powertrain warranty and a 5-year, 60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty that’s a year or two beyond most direct rivals.
The 2019 Kia Sorento could use a thriftier option.
The 2019 Kia Sorento comes up short on fuel-saving gear like stop/start systems or a hybrid powertrain, so it scores a below average 4 out of 10 here. (Read more about how we rate cars.)
That figure is based on the Sorento with the optional V-6 and all-wheel drive, which is rated by the EPA at 19 mpg city, 24 highway, 21 combined. With front-wheel drive, those figures climb to 19/26/22 mpg.
The base 4-cylinder is thriftier, but not by as much as some buyers might hope. With front-wheel drive, it’s rated at 22/29/25 mpg, while all-wheel drive dents that to 21/26/23 mpg.
All that said, Kia plans to offer a turbodiesel version of the Sorento—but it’s not clear if that is for this year or if it will come later.
The Car Connection Consumer Review
Does not shift correctly
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Excellent value for a top safety rated vehicle
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Very nice suv.
Lb Lia Ungaran Review List
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Best electric wheelchairs of 2019
There are many medical issues that can affect a person's mobility. Whether it's an accident, an impairment that limits your ability to walk far distances or old age that affects your joints, an electric wheelchair gives you greater independence and freedom. These sturdy devices allow you to travel long distances outdoors or easily move from one room to the next inside your home.
An electric wheelchair uses batteries to power the device’s motor. The batteries can be charged overnight or during the day to ensure you have plenty of power to travel an extensive distance. A controller, usually a joystick, is located on the product’s arm rest to help you steer and control the device. Large wheels make it possible to handle all types of terrain when you're outdoors and easily maneuver around corners when you're indoors.
Best performance
Golden Compass Sport
A wheelchair that offers a fantastic all-round performance
The Golden Compass Sport is built for all-around performance with a tight turning radius, fast speed, high ground clearance, excellent range and great overall comfort. All of this makes for the best performing powered wheelchairs we reviewed, but it also makes it one of the most expensive at a cost of nearly $3,400.
The maximum speed is 4.5 mph and the range is 19.5 miles. While there are powered wheelchairs with slightly faster motors and slightly longer ranges, it’s the only one we found to do both very well. By comparison, most powered wheelchairs have a max speed under 4 mph and a range less than 12 miles. In addition, the turning radius is 19.5 inches, giving it the ability to turn in much tighter areas than other wheelchairs. Most of the wheelchairs we evaluated have turning radius’ near 30 inches. It’s also capable of driving up ramps with a 6-degree incline.
The comfort features of Golden Compass Sport provides a smooth ride with a high ground clearance of 3.25 inches.. The wheels are also large enough to provide a smooth ride while managing bumps and obstacles on uneven surfaces.
Best value
Cirrus Plus
A folding electric wheelchair that has excellent value for budget buyers
The Cirrus Plus is one of the only folding powered wheelchairs we reviewed, making it ideal for easy transport in vehicles. However, it’s the combination of performance and price that makes this powered wheelchairs our pick for best value. At just $1500, it costs about half the price of most powered wheelchairs.
With a top speed of 5 mph, it’s also the fastest powered wheelchair we reviewed. The maximum range is 15 miles on a single charge, and while this is not the longest range available, it’s above average. In addition, the motor is powerful enough to ride up ramps of 6 degrees, and it has a 4-inch ground clearance. Both of these specifications are better than most powered wheelchairs.
One of the biggest downsides of the Cirrus Plus is the wide turning radius. If you’re in a tight spot, it needs at least 33 inches to make the turn. By comparison, wheelchairs like the Golden Compass Sport have a 19.5 inch turning radius, giving them far superior indoor maneuverability. But if you’re outside and you have room, the Cirrus Plus’s large wheels provide a smooth ride.
Lb Lia Ungaran Review Live
Since this powered wheelchair folds like a manual wheelchair, it lacks the same level and quality of padding as some powered wheelchairs. It has, nonetheless, a wider seat than most and good arm rests with intuitive controls.
Easiest to transport
KD Smart Chair
A lightweight, folding electric wheelchair that is super easy to transport
At just 50 pounds, the KD Smart Chair is one of the lightest powered wheelchairs on the market. It’s also one of the few foldable wheelchairs we reviewed. Since it’s light and can fold into a compact design, this is your best option for easy transportation. It also features a storage tray under the seat, something most powered wheelchairs lack.
The maximum speed is 5 mph, which is fast for a powered wheelchair, and the electric motor has a range of 15 miles, which is above-average. Additionally when you combine the lightweight design with its above-average motor, it makes for a powered wheelchair capable of climbing steeper ramps and hills than other wheelchairs. This chair is rated to climb 12-degree inclines. Most powered wheelchairs can’t climb any ramps greater than 6 degrees.
This powered wheelchair has some faults worth considering, however. For starters, the turning radius is wide. It requires 31.5 inches to make turns. By comparison, wheelchairs like the Golden Compass Sport only need 19.5 inches. Secondly, it lacks a headrest or neck support, which is a critical comfort feature for many.
Most maneuverability
Invacare Pronto M51
A zippy electric wheelchair that is super responsive
With a center-wheel design, the Invacare Pronto M51 has the tightest turning radius of any electric wheelchair we reviewed at just 19.5 inches. By comparison, most electric wheelchairs require at least 30 inches to make a full turn. In addition, it’s capable of climbing inclines up 9 degrees. Overall, when it comes to maneuverability, the Pronto M51 is your best option.
Of course, that maneuverability comes at a price - $3,600. This makes it one of the most expensive electric wheelchairs we reviewed. Most electric wheelchairs cost between $1,500 and $2,500.
The maximum speed is 4 mph, and the range is 12 miles on a single charge. Both are average specifications. In addition, the ground clearance is 2.6 inches, making it lower to the ground than most powered wheelchairs, which can make for a rougher ride on uneven surfaces.
At 198 pounds, the Pronto M51 is heavy. Since most of the weight is only 2.6 inches off the ground, it has a very low center of gravity, which means it’s capable of providing the agility it’s designed for without the risk of tipping over, even with people weighing as much as 300 pounds. However, this also makes it more difficult to transport than other electric wheelchairs. You’ll likely need a powered ramp or hydraulic lifting crane to transport the M51.
Longest range
Heartway Escape
An electric wheelchair that has excellent battery life, and goes the distance
Using a lightweight aluminum frame and large wheels, the Heartway Escape can run for 20 miles on a single charge, making it the best option if range is your priority. With this kind of range, there is less chance of having the battery die while you’re out running errands. The range is particularly impressive considering it’s affordable $1,596 price, which is significantly lower than most powered wheelchairs.
The joystick control of the Heartway Escape makes it easy to maneuver with little motion from the hand. However, the 34-inch turning radius is not ideal for getting around in tight spots. By comparison, wheelchairs like the Golden Compass Sport only need about 19 inches of space to make turns.
Another downside is the 3.8 mph top speed. This makes it one of the slowest powered wheelchair, which is likely why it also has such an impressive range. There are plenty of electric wheelchairs capable of topping out at nearly 5.5 mph, but speed requires power, so the overall range suffers. On a positive note, however, it’s capable of climbing hills and ramps with a 10-degree incline.
The Escape comes with comfortable armrests, but very little seat padding. In addition, while it has a seat-belt and leg straps, making it a good option for quadriplegics, it doesn’t have a headrest or neck support.
Why trust us on electric wheelchairs
Top Ten Reviews has reviewed electric wheelchairs since 2013. We spent between 40 and 80 hours researching and evaluating the specifications and features people look for in electric wheelchairs. An electric wheelchair doesn't just offer a convenient mode of transportation, it also offers greater independence and freedom, which is also a priority when we review mobility products. Each of the wheelchairs we reviewed are designed for indoor and outdoor use and were chosen based on the performance specifications, comfort features and maneuverability.
How we evaluated electric wheelchairs
We evaluated both indoor and outdoor motorized wheelchairs that fell within the price range of $1,500 to $3,700. Products within this range provide plenty of power to travel long distances, provide a strong battery life and come with numerous features to ensure maximum comfort.
We found that most wheelchairs in this price range are ideal for both indoor and outdoor use. They provide a tight turning radius, allowing you to easily move around tight corners and plenty of power to climb steep hills or clear curbs.
Besides the turning radius and power, there are several factors you should consider when deciding on the right electric wheelchair for your needs. Below are a few additional criteria to consider.
Battery life
The battery life on a motorized wheelchair is critical. Many electric wheelchairs have enough battery power to travel up to 14 or more miles on a single charge. The best models can travel 19 to 20 miles. It is important that your wheelchair can handle long distances, especially if you plan to use it outdoors. Most of these electric wheelchairs in our lineup can be charged overnight or while you're at home and not using it.
Design
Wheelchair design is another important consideration. First, consider your own specific needs. If you plan to use the chair for long periods of time or for most of the day, you want a product that offers plenty of seat padding. Some products also offer excessive padding on the backrest to ensure additional comfort. However, there are a handful of electric wheelchairs that do not provide a headrest, which can be a drawback.
Furthermore, electric wheelchairs can be large and bulky, some weighing more than 200 pounds. If you plan to frequently transport the chair, you want a model that can easily be transported around your home or with your vehicle. Some power-operated wheelchairs can fold in half, allowing for easy transportation, while on others may fold down to much smaller dimensions.
The joystick and controls is another design feature you want to closely examine. Depending on whether you are right or left handed, you want to ensure the joystick and button controls are installed on the correct side of the wheelchair. The best models also feature swinging joysticks so you can move the joystick out of the way when you're sitting at a table or desk.
Warranty
Because wheelchairs are a substantial purchase and, for many people, the sole source of transportation, it's important to find a model that is built to last and is backed by a warranty in the event the unit is defective or if it breaks down. The best electric wheelchair models offer a lifetime warranty for the frame and a year or more protection on the joystick and electronic controls. Most wheelchair manufacturers, however, do not guarantee the tires, upholstery, armrests or handle grips, so in the event one of these items is damaged, it is up to you to repair or replace these parts.
Electric wheelchairs vs. power scooters vs. electric wheelchairs
An electric wheelchair more closely resembles a manual wheelchair in its design. You power the device by using buttons and a joystick. Electric wheelchairs also have excessive padding on the seat, backrest and headrest to ensure comfort for full-day use. Additionally, these products have tighter turning radiuses and are fairly easy to maneuver.
Power scooters are similar to electric wheelchairs except they feature a seat that elevates or reclines to help you more easily get in and out of it. For most of these products, you navigate it using a joystick and a button. You can read our reviews on power chairs and their many functions.
The design of a power scooter, though, is much different. Usually these products feature three wheels, a swivel seat and handlebars. They also are powered by batteries, but the navigation is all done by handlebars, which means the rider must have full use of his or her upper body. These products often go a little faster than electric wheelchairs, but they do not have the capability of being folded and easily transported as electric wheelchairs. To learn more about mobility scooters, read our side-by-side comparison and our reviews.
Indoor vs. outdoor
Many electric wheelchairs are designed for both outdoor and indoor use. The design of the wheelchair’s wheels can help determine if the product will be ideal in any setting you desire. For example, center-wheel wheelchairs feature a large drive wheel in the center of the wheelchair, and two caster wheels, or small wheels, are located in the front and the back of the wheelchair. The center wheel allows for a tighter turning radius, making it much easier to maneuver inside a home. This type of unit is stable and can handle all types of terrain. Most of the wheelchairs on our lineup feature center-drive wheels.
Rear-wheel wheelchairs feature a drive wheel in the back with caster wheels that are located in the front. These products are particularly ideal for outdoor use because they are more stable than other configurations and the rear wheels allow for more speed. However, because the rear wheels are located in the back, the turning radius is very large, making it hard to make tight turns.
Will Medicare cover the cost?
Electric wheelchairs are covered by Medicare as long as you meet certain criteria. Power-operated wheelchairs are covered under Part B coverage, which includes medical equipment and supplies. Medicare Part A coverage, however, does not cover these products.
Additionally, your healthcare provider must verify the need for an electric wheelchair or scooter and write a prescription for the chair. You have the freedom to choose the chair you desire, but it must be approved by Medicare and purchased through a Medicare supplier. You may pay 20 percent of the cost depending on several factors, including the chair you choose and its original cost. Our reviews can help you narrow down your options and determine the best electric wheelchair you are approved for.