The award-winning 2017 Ford Everest SUV range is now available with a rear-wheel-drive variant, designed to suit buyers who like the size, space and power of the Everest, but don’t need the cost and complexity associated with the multi-mode four-wheel drive system.
Pros For the most part, its the same car for $5000 less Light steering and easy to drive Still comfy and practical for family and towing duties
Cons Rides like an off roader, so there are better options if urban comfort is your game No reach adjustment on steering wheel Just the single Trend grade available
Visually, the rear-wheel drive (RWD) Ford Everest Trend is almost impossible to pick from 4WD versions. Same with the drive experience contributed to by the 3.2-litre five-cylinder turbo-diesel, the packaging and the towing abilities. So, other than a $5000 price saving over the $60,990 (plus ORCs) 4WD Trend. Apart from a small, essentially useless, receptacle in the centre console, there’s precious little that visually separates Ford’s rear-wheel drive Everest Trend from its four-wheel drive equivalent.
Pros Well-planned, versatile interior Safety technology Some customers simply don’t need 4WD
Cons Some customers simply want 4WD One-way only steering wheel adjustment Engine noisy at times
The 2016 Kia Sorento grows a little bit larger, and grows up a lot.Though the Kia Sorento has been completely redesigned and re-engineered for 2016, it looks like the exterior only modestly evolved. The 2016 model is both significantly roomier and more refined in nearly every way. There’s some meaningful change all around the 2016 Kia Sorento actually, with every bit of sheet metal and every piece of trim changed. A new body structure, an available turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, and redesigned seating—plus some new active-safety features—add up to tremendously meaningful change once you take it all in.
Pros Composed, quiet ride Responsive, economical new 2.0T Impressive interior trims Tight, "vault-like" feel
Cons Short, bench-like second-row seats Third row not available with turbo four Limited availability of active safety features
The Kia Sorento is fully redesigned for 2016 and ranks in the middle among midsize SUVs based on the professional reviews and data that drive our rankings. Professional automotive critics generally agree that the Sorento has an appealing mix of interior comfort and technology, but its base engine is underpowered. It also gets excellent safety ratings within its class.
Pros Accurate steering and composed handling Premium cabin materials Zippy engine options Lots of available safety features
Cons Weak base engine Price can climb quickly
The Kia Sorento is bigger, more sophisticated and better to drive for 2016, making it an appealing alternative to five- and seven-passenger SUVs that were previously a class above it. Kia's midsize crossover is definitely worth a long look.
pros User-friendly controls Well-made and attractive cabin Versatile second-row seat Ample features for the money Long warranty Excellent crash test scores.
cons Turbo engine isn't as punchy and efficient as expected Less spacious than most seven-passenger competitors.
