Overview
 
The appeal of crossover sport-utility vehicles is undeniable. Offering increased cargo capacity over a car, decent driving dynamics with the option of all-wheel-drive capability, a higher seating position for improved visibility, and avoidance of the domesticated image that minivans tend to project, the crossover SUV is a jack of all trades.
 
Therefore, it’s no wonder that families are choosing CUVs as their primary conveyances. And it’s no wonder that automakers keep churning out new and refreshed crossovers to keep those customers interested. This year, the popular 2019 Kia Sorento gets a bunch of subtle upgrades inside and out, so it was time to see if this midsize crossover remains worthy of inclusion in your driveway.
 
Technical Overview
 
Kia streamlines powertrain choices for 2019, dropping the turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine formerly available in the EX trim level. So now, your choices are a 185-horsepower 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine (L and LX) or a 290-horsepower 3.3-liter V6 (EX, SX, and SX Limited). You can get the V6 as an option with LX trim.
I prefer a V6 in almost every crossover SUV I drive, and the Sorento is no different. This motor pulls strong and smooth across the rev range, sending a surge of copious power to the optional all-wheel-drive system. This engine also supplies a 5,000-lb. towing capacity when the SUV is properly equipped.
 
New-for-2019, the 8-speed transmission that goes with the V6 could use some fine-tuning. When it came to downshifting, often it took a bit longer than I expected. Cycling through Eco, Comfort, Sport and Smart modes didn’t seem to solve for this, either.