Kia’s flagship SUV is “pretty neat,” according to my mother. I hadn’t heard that phrase in a while, but it fits the 2021 Kia Sorento SX-Prestige AWD. She used that word a lot while hanging out with me as I drove around the city in this top-of-the line trim with the X-Line appearance package. This all-new model somehow manages to balance the right mix of design and technology to deliver a rugged, but luxurious vibe.
The 2021 Sorento is offered in five trims: LX, S, EX, SX, and SX-Prestige and available with either FWD or AWD. This X-Line features a 2.5 liter turbo engine with 281 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque and 8-speed dual clutch auto transmission. The athletic build is accented with 20-inch matte finished alloy wheels, which is the largest Kia has placed on a Sorento. Want to go off-roading? Ideally, this ride will take you there. The height is increased for the X-line to 8.2 inches, and offers downhill descent control, allowing the driver to come down steep hills with confidence. Another confidence builder comes with snow mode, and aesthetically it’s fun to watch the graphics change on the digital screen each time a new mode is selected.
I happen to be driving a model with the rust package on the interior. It’s a vibrant color to brighten up anyone’s day. Add to that the layers of eye candy and it’s just a pleasant place to hang out. The interior includes a mix of bright satin finishes, metal texture inlays or open-pore wood inlays all the way to the leather embossed quilt pattern on optional leather-equipped models. I especially appreciate the vertical air vents with little icons that indicate if the vents are opened or closed. We’ve all looked crazy waving our hands trying to feel and not feel air. Good lookin’ out.
I admit I had some fun testing out the Sounds of Nature suite with one of my passengers. The choices include the following calming sounds: rainfall, calm sea waves, a burning fireplace, lively forest, walking in crisp snow, and open-air cafe. I turned off the radio and then turned on the sea affect to see if one of my passengers noticed it. They thought the wind was blowing hard outside until I pointed out that it was one of the features of the SUV. They laughed, and thought it was cool. I have mixed emotions on this one. Some of us fall asleep to these at home, and wouldn’t want to get the driving and sleeping signals mixed. But I can imagine relaxing to this while sitting in a park under the panoramic sunroof and power shade.
I love the options presented with the improved passenger and cargo room, including second-row captain’s chairs, allowing buyers to select either 4+2 or 5+2 seating. Accessing the third row is very easy with the one-touch button near the headrest on the second-row captain’s chairs. Backs and shoulders around the world will appreciate this button. There’s so much to appreciate about this ride from the remote start feature and the side mirrors that open when you approach with your key all the way to the height adjustable tailgate. By the way, the tailgate automatically opens when you’re standing in front of it with your key. Loads of USB outlets as well as a wireless charger should keep everyone and their friends connected.
Safetywise, some once-available features are now standard, namely forward collision avoidance assist, lane keeping assist, lane departure warning, and rear occupant alert. I was pleasantly surprised to experience the blindspot camera (Blind View Monitor) that activates automatically when the left or right indicator is in use – and projects a live video image of traffic in adjacent lanes (beside and in front) onto the instrument cluster. I first experienced this type of feature when driving a Telluride a while back. It’s just cool and extra helpful.
During the test drive of this X-Line, featuring its exclusive Aruba Green exterior, I picked up a bit of dust after a rainstorm. To my surprise, this ride also picked up a secret admirer. Someone who truly loved this X-Line took the time to draw three hearts into the dust to acknowledge their appreciation. I guess that’s the equivalent of “pretty neat.”
2021 Kia Sorento X-Line AWD MSRP; Combined City/Hwy MPG: 24.
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