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 2020 Hyundai Venue is a subcompact crossover with big ideas.
Pros Spunky looks Flexible cargo space Hatchback practicality 8.0-inch touchscreen Automatic emergency braking is standard
Cons Is it too small? That grille, though Wild colors Stretching the definition of a crossover
The Hyundai Venue will be the Korean automaker's newest and smallest crossover when it goes on sale for the 2020 model year. The tiny ute will slot below the already subcompact Hyundai Kona. We expect the 2020 Hyundai Venue to be in dealerships before the end of 2019. The Venue will have few direct competitors—namely the Ford EcoSport and the Nissan Kicks. We expect the pint-sized Hyundai to have an equally diminutive stature. An 8.0-inch infotainment system will offer Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability as well as streaming audio and voice-controlled search functionality. Navigation with real-time traffic updates will be optional.
The Hyundai Venue is a new runner in the small SUV segment, having made its debut in late 2019. Three grades are offered in Australia, but on test we have the range topper, the Venue Elite, which costs $25,490 (before on-road costs).The Venue Elite slots in neatly below the slightly larger Kona and features a suite of features like autonomous emergency braking, blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic alert, cruise control, an 8.0-inch touchscreen with Android Auto/Apple CarPlay, 17-inch alloy wheels, two-tone paint, satellite navigation and climate control.
