Sorento

KIA’S Sorento mid-size SUV came in for a major mid-life update in October 2012, although it would have taken a keen eye to spot the difference.

Despite the similarities in design with the previous model, the only shared panels were the bonnet, roof and doors.

Sharing a platform with the Hyundai Santa Fe that was launched a month before, the Sorento was lighter than the model it replaced.

This meant improved fuel efficiency, with the 104kW 3.5-litre petrol V6 model consuming 9.8 litres per 100km on the combined cycle and the 2.2-litre diesel just 6.6L/100km.

Kicking off with the two-wheel drive Si model, the range included a mid-spec SLi variant with a new ‘Navigation’ option before topping out with the Platinum all-wheel-drive diesel.

Along with a five-star ANCAP safety rating, the Sorento boasted a long standard features list including dual-zone climate-control, cruise control, Bluetooth for phone and audio streaming, tilt and reach adjustable leather multi-function steering wheel, six-speaker MP3-compatible sound system with USB and iPod connectivity, 60/40 split-folding centre bench seat with a flip-down armrest with cupholders, and a third-row 50-50 split seat that can fold flush with the boot floor.