Shifting into top kia

Promising to set new standards in the highly competitive sport utility vehicle market, the Sorento will offer the now-familiar Korean blend of value for money and luxury. The car aims to rival the likes of the Land Rover Freelander and Nissan X-Trail, and buyers will have a choice between a 2.5-litre diesel and flagship 3.5-litre V6 petrol version.

Prices for the UK market are still to be confirmed, but it's suggested the entry-level oil-burner will cost around £17,500. It's not only the price that Kia hopes will appeal to buyers, however - the car's size and equipment levels also help make it a very attractive proposition. Measuring 4,570mm long, 1,885mm wide and 1,735mm high, the Sorento is much larger then its peers.

It also offers impressive practicality, with a flip-up rear screen, usefully large boot and a spacious interior. In the front, the eight-way power-adjustable seats are very comfortable, and the Sorento features a total of 33 storing places, including built-in two-stage gloveboxes and four cup-holders.

Kia predicts that the 2.5-litre oil-burner, which we've driven here, will account for the vast majority of sales in the UK. It's capable of generating 143bhp at 3,800rpm and delivers a healthy 323Nm of torque from only 2,000rpm. Combined with tall gearing, this ensures the Sorento makes quiet and relaxed progress on the motorway. What's more, the Kia returns a wallet-friendly 32.2mpg - a considerable achievement when you bear in mind that the car weighs nearly two tons!

Refinement is equally as impressive, and measures to improve the cabin ambience include engine balancer shafts, additional soundproofing and a carefully tuned exhaust system. As the roads get twistier, it's clear that the Sorento is right up there with its class competitors. Despite the fact that it's based on an old-fashioned ladder-type chassis, the car offers surprisingly precise steering and a composed ride. Town driving is manageable, too, thanks to a relatively tight 5.5m turning circle.

The Sorento also offers genuine off-road ability, as its gearbox features a high and low ratio transfer case, as well as a centre differential lock. Intelligent airbags are a final touch that add a sense of security to the cabin, while electronic brakeforce distribution and ABS are fitted as standard, too.

In many ways, the Sorento is one of the most complete cars Kia has ever produced. Not only does it represent a giant step forward in terms of build quality, it also marks a huge improvement in driver appeal. It seems Korea has learned about more than just football from some of its European rivals!