NEW FOR 2008:

Image courtesy: Paul Williams Image courtesy: Paul Williams Image courtesy: Paul Williams Click image to enlarge

- New 3.3-litre V6 added
- New base L trim line
- Enhanced anti-theft ignition immobilizer
- Rear ashtray, door scuff plates, passenger under-seat tray, and roof rack crossbars deleted
- LX Luxury adds cargo cover

Following the Kia Sorento's facelift and engine upgrade in 2007, the 2008 version adds a second powertrain.

The Sorento was previously available only with a 3.8-litre V6. It is now joined by a 3.3-litre V6, with both engines using a five-speed automatic transmission. The 3.3-litre uses a part-time all-wheel drive system, while the 3.8-litre uses a full-time, torque-on-demand system.

Trim lines are the base L, LX and LX-Luxury, all with the 3.3-litre engine, and the 3.8 LX-Luxury.

Features on the L include 16-inch steel wheels, air conditioning, roof rails, heated mirrors, 60/40 split-folding rear seat, power locks with keyless entry, power windows with driver's side express down, cruise control, CD/MP3 stereo with four speakers, tilt column, and driver's side knee airbag.

The LX adds 16-inch alloy wheels, fog lamps, deep-tint privacy glass, heated front seats, and CD/MP3 stereo with six speakers.

The LX-Luxury adds 17-inch alloy wheels, leather upholstery, woodgrain interior accents, chrome inside door handles, and wheel-mounted audio controls.

The 3.8 LX-Luxury adds dual-zone automatic climate control.

The body-on-frame Sorento is equally at home in the city or thrashing about on the off-road courses; the smaller engine, with its lower buy-in, is a welcome addition, especially since U.S. buyers have been able to purchase stripped-down versions, including two-wheel drive. Roomy and with good towing capability, the Sorento works well all-around for buyers who want an outdoorsy vehicle without sacrificing comfort.