Braking is also good due to standard 4-wheel discs assisted by a standard anti-lock system. Of course the Toyota offers these features too. The Korean doesn't offer traction control though, optional on the Japanese competitor, incorporating a limited slip rear differential instead. That said the Highlander only comes with 2WD in base form, 4WD is a costly option. A shift-on-the-fly 4WD system is standard equipment on the Kia, but moving up to the EX replaces it with a sophisticated torque on demand all-wheel drive system - impressive. The added traction this configuration gives, coupled with the Sorento's V6 power, makes for spirited performance.

If you really want to compare apples to apples, though, the Highlander is available with a slightly more powerful 3.0-L V6, developing 220-hp and 222 lb-ft of torque. But factor that into the equation and its $32,330 base price, already $2,535 more expensive than the $29,795 Sorento LX, climbs to $36,490 - $6,695 more than the Sorento. Of course the V6 equipped Toyota is well equipped, but for that matter so is the Kia. Even if you load the Korean up with every available option, including leather, sunroof and a full allotment of convenience accessories it still adds up to a mere $35,795. Option out its Japanese equivalent and the price topples the $40K mark, landing at $45,995 - over $10,000 more than the Sorento! With that kind of change it's almost possible to pick up a Rio for the kids.