The 2011 Kia Sorento ranks 13 out of 23 Affordable Midsize SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 26 published reviews and test drives of the Kia Sorento, and our analysis of reliability and safety data. Previously an also-ran within its competitive class, the 2011 Kia Sorento has lost its truck-based platform and is now one of the most comfortable-riding and powerful midsize crossovers available.

The 2011 Kia Sorento straddles the line between compact and midsize SUVs. Available seating for seven and its exterior size say midsize SUV, but its price and standard four cylinder engine say compact SUV.  Though the Sorento can cost more than $29,000 if you opt for the highest trim, a modestly equipped base model is quite a good value. Reviewers like the new Sorento so much that they say it gives the class leaders a run for their money.

When the midsize Kia Sorento first appeared, it featured a traditional, trucklike body-on-frame design that provided a level of ruggedness not typically found on crossover SUVs. Blessed with above-average off-roading and towing abilities, the V6-powered first-generation Sorento won our respect for its practical nature. It also boasted impressive value, offering the dimensions of a midsize SUV at a compact-crossover price point.

But the original Sorento was clearly out of sync with the crossover craze. Most consumers want carlike unibody construction in their SUVs these days, so Kia decided to provide precisely that with the current, second-generation Sorento. The present model also offers a usable third-row seat, standard four-cylinder power with a V6 option, and Kia’s extensive warranty package. Even more so than its predecessor, the current Sorento offers midsize functionality and refinement at an extraordinarily reasonable price.

On the styling front, the updated X-Trail gets an updated front grille, bumper and headlights, while the rear-end also gets a new bumper, along with new LED taillights. The updated headlights now feature clearer and brighter Xenon lights for the Ti (petrol) and TL (diesel) variants, while the new LED tail-lights are fitted to all models.

Thanks to the new front bumper, the updated X-Trail is 10 mm longer overall, and 10 mm wider and higher thanks to the new wheel and tyre specification.

Power remains unchanged for the X-Trail’s four-cylinder petrol engine, producing 125kW and 226Nm of torque, however fuel consumption is down to 9.1 l/100km for both manual and CVT variants (9.3 and 9.5 l/100km previously). The petrol engine is now also compliant with Euro IV emissions regulations.

For the updated six-speed automatic transmission fitted to the diesel TS and TL variants, a technology upgrade allows a reduction in fuel use at idle.

This is achieved by the transmission shifting into a near neutral setting when stationary in drive mode, reducing engine load. Another benefit is a reduction in idle vibration. Power figures for the 2.0 litre diesel also remain unchanged, developing 127kW and 360Nm of torque.