The 2021 Kia Sorento crossover SUV strikes out in a new styling direction, and brings hybrid and plug-in models along for the adventure.
PROS More expressive Available hybrid powertrains Bigger interior More square inches of touchscreen
CONS What’s with the door tooth? Third-row seat’s very, very small More noise More hard plastic in the cabin
The Sorento is all new for 2021, with a starting price that's $2450 higher than last year. Its boxier proportions and bolder styling mark a stark departure from the curvier and softer appearance of the outgoing Sorento. In addition to riding on an all-new platform that's bigger inside and out, the new Sorento adds a hybrid powertrain as well as an eventual plug-in variant.We like the EX trim level. It's pricier than the bottom two models, but it comes standard with the more powerful 281-hp turbo-four. It also has nicer amenities than the S trim below it that include leatherette upholstery, heated front seats, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, remote start, and snazzier styling such as 18-inch wheels and black exterior accents.
The 2021 Jeep Compass's #15 ranking is based on its score within the Compact SUVs category. Currently the Jeep Compass has a score of 7.2 out of 10, which is based on our evaluation of 34 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Excellent off-roader Adult-friendly seats User-friendly infotainment features
Cons Weak engine and so-so handling Limited standard safety tech and low safety score Below-average cargo room
The Compass enters 2021 with minor changes. There's a new 80th Anniversary Edition that's based on the Latitude trim level and features Granite Crystal 19-inch wheels, leather seats with contrast stitching, a power-adjustable driver's seat, remote start, an 8.4-inch touchscreen, a 115-volt power outlet, and more. Other flourishes include trim-specific badging, an oak medallion key fob, and piano-black and gunmetal interior accents. The Limited and Trailhawk trims both add more standard active safety features, such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist..
Pros Can actually handle some off-road obstacles, no shortage of popular technology, one of the prettier Jeep designs.
Cons Inferior interior materials, powertrain has apathetic responses, the Cherokee offers more capability.
The Jeep Compass has impressive off-road credentials, but its poor road manners and noisy engines mean it's ultimately off the pace.
Pros Good off-road ability Reasonably spacious interior
Cons Terrible engine refinement Small boot for its class
