I have not had the opportunity to test the all-wheel drive version of the Sorento, but given Kia's noteworthy attention to detail, I would venture a guess that it performs most effectively. I did however have occasion to take my Sorento to the local ski hill on a very snowy evening. Plowing through the slippery white stuff easily over-challenged the limited slip differential, which left us going no where but sideways! Shazaam, a twist of the dial directed the torque of the 3.5 liter V6 to all four wheels, following which we lunged into the white depths with nary a hint of hesitation or slip. Life doesn't get much better when you are one of the few to actually make it to the freshly blanketed ski hill. Thank you Sorento!

A twist of the dash-mounted dial directs the torque of the 3.5-liter V6 to all four wheels. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

The 3.5-liter DOHC, 24-valve V6 that got us there is the only engine available in the Sorento, and does a worthy job of hill climbing and highway passing. Here again, my hat gets doffed to Kia. While many of the competing SUVs in the compact class are equipped with 4-cylinder powerplants, the Sorento shows up with six cylinders firing life into its 1,930 to 1,971 kg (4,255 to 4,345 lb) curb weight. This group of six develops 192-horsepower and 217 lb-ft of torque. As commendable as this engine is, with a magic wand I would wave a little more refinement and a few more ponies into its operation. There's nothing unduly harsh anywhere throughout its powerband, but it's a little coarse when pushed hard. If the Sorento's level of engine refinement was commensurate with its solid, drum-tight chassis, the combination would be flawless, leaving the competition begging for mercy.

The 4-speed automatic transmission could use another gear, but if it's a major issue you can always opt for the pleasing 5-speed manual. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

Curiously, Kia has not equipped the Sorento with the 5-speed automatic transmission that does the shifting in their upscale Amanti sedan, and their Honda chasing Sedona minivan. The 4-speed auto found in the Sorento does a fine job no doubt, but the additional gear would contribute to better acceleration and hill climbing. Of course, if five gears are mandatory to a Sorento purchaser, the manual transmission may be just what the off-roader ordered. The mixing stick in my test unit shifted easily, although the throws were a little long by today's standards. That being said, the stick has a definitive "notchy" feel that stirs the sporting senses. Clutch actuation is light and easily modulated. In short, it's quite pleasing to work the five gears of the Sorento's manual box.