2018 KIA Sorento SX

The Sorento is Kia's mid-size three-row SUV, the one you'd cross-shop with a Honda Pilot or Toyota Highlander if you need room for seven. It drives easily and feels stable on the highway, though the base engine can feel a bit short on power when you're fully loaded. The cabin is roomier than you'd expect, with comfortable seats and a nicely styled interior that doesn't feel like a budget SUV. Most trims include useful safety tech like blind spot detection, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control to make long drives easier. Stepping up to the SX gets you the full luxury treatment with Nappa leather, ventilated front seats, and a panoramic sunroof that the EX doesn't offer. Its 3.3L V6 makes 290 horsepower and pairs with a six-speed automatic and all-wheel drive, giving you confident passing power even with the third row up, though it returns 19 mpg combined. The SX also comes with a 10-speaker Infinity audio system and a 360-degree camera, making tight parking lots easier than in lower trims.