Kia's SUV achieves its "suspension nirvana" by incorporating an independent, front double wishbone design using coil springs, gas shock absorbers and a stabilizer bar. Rearward magic relies upon a multi-link system incorporating coil springs, gas shock absorbers and a stabilizer bar. The

The Sorento's impressive suspension results in handling that is predictable, sure-footed and progressive in nature. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

collective-good of these parts results in handling that is predictable, sure-footed and progressive in nature. The counterpoint is body lean when pressed hard through the corners. Being that most people don't by SUVs to improve their road racing skills the comfy suspension setup is a smart choice. Although Kia is yet to affix a stability control system to the Sorento, a competent driver is hard-pressed to overstep the SUV's handling thresholds. Doing so would require a sizeable dose of Tomfoolery, which doesn't belong on the road at any time as it is.

In LX trim, power to the Sorento "defaults" to the rear wheels, through either a 5-speed manual stick or a 4-speed automatic equipped with electronic overdrive. The rear wheel propulsion eliminates any possibility of torque-steer, allowing only

The Sorento is one of the few compact sized, entry-level SUVs to feature a low-range set of gears. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

precise, easily managed steering to prevail. But when the going gets tough, the Sorento gets going with its shift-on-the-fly, 4-wheel drive system and electronically controlled 2-speed transfer case. Yes Virginia, the Sorento is one of the few compact sized, entry-level SUVs to feature a low-range set of gears - and low they are. A turn of the dash-mounted dial engages the 4-wheel drive system in your choice of 4-high or 4-low. There's nothing to it but traction; mean, gritty in-your-face traction. Rather than the shift on-the-fly, 4-wheel drive in the LX, upgrade models attain the extra traction on a continual basis through an electronically controlled, torque-on-demand all-wheel-drive system.