Columbian Autocar Corporation (CAC), the exclusive distributor of Kia vehicles in the Philippines is finally bringing in a more affordable variant of its mid-sized SUV offering, the Sorento. After launching with a sole EX AWD variant in 2015, this new EX 4x2 joins the 7-seater SUV fray with a more affordable price point.
Priced at P 1,895,000 or P 405,000 less than its AWD sibling, the 2017 Sorento EX 4x2 may become an interesting alternative for buyers eyeing the typical PPVs (pickup-based passenger vehicles). This is especially true for those who prefer the handling and comfort of a monocoque SUV.
Like the AWD variant, the Sorento EX 4x2 is powered by a 2.2-liter common rail direct injection diesel engine. This 4-cylinder powerplant produces 200 horsepower and 441 Nm of torque—figures which are comparable to mid-sized SUVs with larger displacements. Power is routed exclusively through the front wheels via 6-speed automatic with a manual shift override.
Apart from the loss of the AWD system, the differences between the EX AWD and EX 4x2 are fairly minimal.
From the outside, the EX 4x2 can be distinguished thanks to the smaller wheels and tires (235/65 R 17), and the loss of the panoramic sunroof and roof rails. While inside, the EX 4x2 makes do with fabric seats, a manually opening tailgate, and the absence of wood grain on the steering wheel, push-button engine start/stop, vehicle immobilizer, and Bluetooth hands-free.
Kia dealerships across the country are now accepting reservations for the 2017 Sorento EX 4x2 with initial deliveries to start soon.
Wahahahaha! At that price: dual airbags only, no stability control, no traction control, no hill start assist, no hill descent control, etc..
ReplyDeleteThe only gem here is the design and the engine.
yeah its no wonder I dont see this model so often than the last generation. its way too overpriced and have such barebones features. even the TOTL one doesnt have a touchscreen or power seats.
DeletePrevious generation was a beast to drive almost to the Forester XT level with its powerful and economical diesel engine. This version is more grown up to a large highway cruiser catered to the American market.
DeleteMaski 10 airbags kung from takata na puro naman palyado. Na bankrupt na ngayon sa recalls
DeleteLife is full of compromises. If you want a good riding suv and those electronic stuff get the Honda pilot. But then it costs double and comes with a gas engine
ReplyDeleteToo overpriced. Get the Everest or Montero.
ReplyDeleteWhile they have the best rides among PPV they are not up to par to the handling monocoque suv. Ride is bouncier and more pronounced body roll. But if you like the ride of pickups they are for you. But if you like car like ride get suvs like these
DeleteThe 3.2L Everest has a very good ride comparable to a monocoque SUV.
DeleteWith this price range Montero,Fortuner or Everest na! :)
ReplyDeleteThose choices has ride and handling less polished than in passenger-car based SUVs. Nobody wants them except if you are upgrading from an AUV. Why do you think those are sold only in less developed countries in Africa, Asia and South America?
Delete^Why are you living in an Asian country if you do not like vehicles that are specific for the Asian Market?
DeleteBakit ko naman pagtitiisan ang mga AUV o PPV na meron namang better riding SUV? Kung mag off road ako siguro ako kailangan ko ng PPV pero 99% of the time nasa city kang ako so why agonize myself of the horrible ride of the Fortuner and the like?
DeleteIf so, why do you feel the need to tell others not to buy PPV's or AUV's when there are people who do like them.
DeleteAs if you get injured while riding them sobrang arte mo.
I can relate to the guy stating about the horrible ride of some PPV's and AUV's. The ride of the Fortuner and Innova (2nd and 3rd row) are nauseating.
DeleteThe Everest though has a very good ride due to the Watts Link Suspension. A ride that's comparable to a Monocoque SUV.
Never tried the Everest though I heard good things about it. Its not being maarte but my kids constantly complained about our previous Fortuner's ride. That's why I stayed away from them. Its your choice if you want to stick with PPVs or AUVs but I don't want my passengers to complain about it since the SUVs are used as family cars nowadays due to the space.
DeleteYes I agree that among all PPV's, Fortuner is quite bumpy but it improves when fully loaded.
DeleteI put tires at the back of my Hilux just to improve the ride. You should have tried putting them in the cargo hold or beside the kids since they weigh very little.
DeleteNice SUV! Another option to consider...
ReplyDeleteIt's a reasonable pricing among the Kia Line up considering the totl Sportage is around Php1.76m already. I still feel the entire line up is underspecced though.
ReplyDeleteThis one looks good. But it's too low for my liking.
ReplyDeleteIt truly would've been a very good value had they added at least a touchscreen with bluetooth, with navigation as a plus. If subcompact SUVs such as the HR-V, Tucson or Escape can have them, why not the Sportage?
ReplyDeleteAnd come on, don't use the diesel-unibody as an excuse for the price too much. Hyundai managed to put the Tucson's price down.
Do not compromise your safety and the safety of your loved ones. Do not buy this SUV. It is now 2017 yet it has only 2 airbags and no stability control.
ReplyDelete