Reviews – Page 9 – Latino Traffic Report

Reviews: 2016 Dodge Journey Crossroad Plus

Dodge, Reviews Comments Off

Jun 012016

Most recognized for its muscle cars like the Charger and Challenger, Dodge also includes more utilitarian models in its lineup. The Dart is one. The Dodge Journey is another. On a recent test drive of the 2016 Journey Crossroad Plus for Latino Traffic Report, I was pleasantly surprised by this Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV).

Appropriately named, the Journey can transport five to seven passengers depending on how it’s configured. Classified as a small SUV by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Department of Transportation, the Journey’s 50/50-split third-row, available on all trim levels, sets it apart from the competition.

Dodge has reduced the number of trim levels in 2016, from seven to five, but added the Crossroad Plus that sits near the top of the lineup. Standard features like leather seats, the 8.4-inch Uconnect infotainment system, sport mesh seat inserts, and creatively designed storage space elevate the SUV. My favorite was the Flip ‘n Stow in-seat storage under the passenger front seat cushion. It flips up easily and can fit a purse. That plus the fold-flat front passenger seat, second- and third-row seating, and second-row in-floor storage, give the Journey best-in-class storage.

On the outside, distinctive front and rear fascias with Platinum Chrome accents, Platinum Chrome side sills, Platinum Chrome roof rails and unique 19-inch Hyper Black aluminum wheels, further distinguish this trim level.

Powered by a choice of two engines, a 2.4-liter four-cylinder or a 3.6-liter V6, the test model came with the latter that produces 283 horsepower and 260 lb.–ft. of torque. Matched to a six-speed automatic transmission, it has an EPA estimated fuel economy of 17 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city and 25 mpg on the highway for the two-wheel-drive version. I averaged 28.9 mpg.

All Journeys include Keyless Enter ‘n Go with push-button start, dual-zone climate control, Uconnect 4.3 with a 4.3-inch touchscreen, an AM/FM radio, CD player, MP3/WMA audio jack input, remote USB port, and black side roof rails.

The Journey also offers surprising options for this segment, like a heated steering wheel, a fold-flat front seat, and all-wheel-drive (AWD), featuring an on-demand system that provides added traction when needed and enhanced fuel economy when not.

The Crossroad Plus includes a black leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, Liquid Graphite accents, a power driver’s seat, three-zone climate control and the afore mentioned front passenger fold-flat seat with storage.

Where the Journey falls short, however, is safety. While traditional features like anti-lock brakes and traction control are included, the rearview camera comes in a package reserved for the higher-end models, and a blind-spot warning system isn’t even offered.

Pricing for the Journey starts at $21,890, $2,600 less than the 2015 model. The test model included several packages like the Popular Equipment Group ($1250) that added the heated steering wheel, and the Navigation and Back-Up Camera Group ($1,195) bringing the as-tested price to $32,560.

Sí: Seating configurations and extra storage space give the Journey added versatility.

No: With all the extra packages on the test model, it still didn’t include critical safety features like blind spot monitor or collision avoidance, nor are they available.

Reviews: 2016 Honda Pilot Elite

Honda, Reviews Comments Off

May 062016

A compact and midsize sedan sales leader among Latinos, Honda also competes handily in the sport utility (SUV) segment. For 2016, its biggest SUV, the Pilot, gets new looks and improved functionality, thanks, in part, to lots of buttons. Latino Traffic Report recently spent a week driving the top-of-the-line model, the Pilot Elite.

Manufactured exclusively by Honda Manufacturing in Lincoln, Alabama, this is the third generation of Honda’s popular SUV, considered a game changer when it was first introduced in 2003 for offering three rows of seating and being built on a car- rather than truck-like platform.

For 2016, it bears many improvements, starting with the shift knob, which is gone, replaced instead with a push-button PRNDL or shift-by-wire gear selector.

Drivers engage Park, Drive, Neutral, and Sport functions by pushing a button while Reverse requires them to lift up on the tab. To avoid being engaged accidentally by a wandering pet or toddler, the brake pedal must be depressed to activate them.

The button-operated Intelligent Traction Management System offers different operating modes to improve performance. For the all-wheel-drive version, drivers can choose among Normal, Snow, Mud and Sand modes while the front-wheel-drive (FWD) model offers a choice between Normal and Snow.

Panoramic sunroof on the Pilot Elite.

SUVs in this segment with this kind of ride, handling, and versatility were built to appeal to families. For starters, it’s a people carrier with seating for up to eight passengers. A small but impressive innovation, the push button release to access and exit from the third row of seats, will save many fingernails.

With five available trim levels, the all-new Elite trim replaces the second row bench with captain’s chairs for easier pass-through to the back row. It also includes several new luxury features like a glass panoramic sunroof, ventilated front seats, heated second-row seats, and a heated steering wheel.

This SUV can carry cargo as well as people. More than three inches of added overall vehicle length expand the cargo length on the Pilot by 1.3 inches.

A direct-injected 3.5-liter V6 engine powers the midsize SUV. It can be matched to a choice of two available new advanced transmissions, a six-speed or a nine-speed. Technology like Variable Cylinder Management, a 300-pound reduction in vehicle weight on upper trim levels, and improved aerodynamics help the Pilot achieve the most fuel-efficiency offered in the midsize SUV segment—an EPA estimated 20 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city and 27 mpg on the highway with the FWD matched to the nine-speed transmission. Equipped with the all-new intelligent variable torque management all-wheel-drive system, the test model had a city/highway estimated fuel economy of 19/26 mpg. I averaged 22.5 mpg.

Standard convenience features on the Pilot include push button start, a multi-angle rearview camera, a 4.2-inch color display, five USB ports, and a 60/40 split third-row seat that folds flat.

The standard entertainment system begins with a five-inch (diagonal) display screen and conventional knobs and buttons to control the various functions on an AM/FM radio audio system and a USB port for other compatible devices. The system can play Pandora content from a compatible device via the USB port, or wirelessly, via Bluetooth.

The knobs disappeared on the test model entertainment system, replaced by an eight-inch capacitive touchscreen Display Audio connectivity interface. While it looked really slick, I found the constant need for tapping to tune the radio a bit distracting and the radio presets were limited to only twelve. I need at least 18 for XM satellite radio alone.

Families will appreciate the nine-inch rear entertainment system with DVD and new Blu-ray disc capability on the Elite.

Pricing for the all-new 2016 Pilot starts at $31,045. The as-tested price came to $47,300.

Sí: The Pilot’s new look is appealing as well as new innovations like the push button release for the second-row seat.

No: The entertainment system is a bit clunky and distracting without knobs.

Reviews: 2016 Audi A7 Prestige

Audi, Reviews Comments Off

Apr 282016

Luxury sedan buyers seek status, style, and performance. A recent test drive by Latino Traffic Report revealed that the 2016 Audi A7 fits the bill.

The A7’s appeal begins with a distinctive exterior, accentuated by design cues that several brands have emulated, i.e. how many trapezoidal grilles can you count on the road?

For the current model year, the A7 received a new front fascia with LED headlights that emit the Audi light signature (also widely copied), a widened grille, LED taillights, and new trapezoidal tailpipes at the rear. Its long and sleek silhouette belies its midsize classification.

A 3.0-liter V6 supercharged turbo engine powers the A7 (diesel engines have been removed from the lineup for the time being). Matched to an eight-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission with paddle shifters on the steering wheel and equipped with quattro permanent all-wheel drive, the engine achieves 333 horsepower and 325 lb.–ft. of torque. This powertrain accelerates from zero to 60 miles per hour in 5.2 seconds. The EPA estimated fuel economy is 20 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city and 30 mpg on the highway. I averaged 32.2 mpg.

A beautiful exterior demands an exceptionally plush interior, and that’s what the A7 delivers. While I would expect to find heated leather seats and real wood accents, the test model pushed the envelope a bit further with the optional ($700) layered Walnut inlays.

Inside, the A7 offers plenty of cabin space, including 37 inches of rear legroom and 24.5 cubic feet of cargo capacity in the trunk. The 60/40-split rear seat expands cargo room further. As an added premium touch, the test model included a power button on the trunk, akin to one on a power liftgate.

Infotainment technology begins with an eight-inch center screen that displays the Audi MMI system featuring Audi connect that allows access to the internet via a 4G LTE connection, as well as an integrated Wi-Fi hotspot for passenger devices. Plus, there’s a CD player.

The A7 also comes with a power sunroof, power adjust steering column, four-zone climate control, a rearview camera, parking sensors, and navigation.

Available safety technology for 2016 includes adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go function, enhanced night vision assist, and the Audi pre-sense system. The test model also included Audi active lane assist that helps keep the vehicle in its lane, so much so, however, that it can feel aggressive, like a ghost in the machine.

Available in two trim levels, Premium Plus or Prestige, Audi A7 2016 pricing starts at $69,225. I drove the Prestige that added $2,650 to the price including the Bose surround sound stereo, ventilated front seats, LED interior lighting, and the head-up display.

With three additional packages, the as-tested price came to $77,725.

Sí: The A7 will not disappoint buyers looking for a status symbol with a distinctive design and plush interior.

No: Too many safety and tech features come as part of packages rather than standard features, escalating the price substantially.

Long-term Review: Kia Sedona Pt. 2

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Feb 282016

A six-month test drive can lead to many adventures. The Kia Sedona minivan I drove from August through February for Latino Traffic Report got me through good times and bad, but then, what else would you expect from a family vehicle?

Redesigned in 2015, the Sedona offers a handsome option in the minivan segment. I received the Sedona SX-Limited (SX-L), the top-of-the-line trim level, and from the beginning, it impressed me with its elegance, comfort, and handling.

As with all Kias, it packs more features than normally associated with its segment, like ventilated as well as heated front seats, heated second-row cushions, a dual sunroof, and a driver mode select button (Eco, Normal, or Comfort), that helped improve the ride and handling as well as fuel economy.

The minivan should earn an EPA estimated 17miles per gallon (mpg) in the city and 22 mpg on the highway, averaging around 23 mpg. All Sedonas come with a 3.3-liter V6 engine matched to a six-speed automatic transmission with Sport-matic simulated manual shifting. I traveled nearly 5,000 miles, spent $333 on gasoline and my final average fuel economy, utilizing the Eco mode, ranged between 20–24 mpg.

After six-months I took a few quick road trips to Bryan, Texas and San Antonio to visit family over the holidays. The majority of the mileage, however, accrued through city driving, particularly during a three-week stint as a holiday mail carrier for the United States Postal Service (USPS). For the most part, I drove rented cargo vans, but there were a couple times when the Sedona came through, in a pinch. This gave me ample opportunity to test the fold flat seating and take advantage of the Sedona’s 142 cu. ft. of cargo volume.

The optional first-class lounge chairs with footrests in the second row on the test model had manual levers that made them clunky to manipulate. The third row, however, folded flat more easily and quickly.

The navigation system, standard on the SX-L, also proved essential and easy to use as the postal routes I was given lacked serious detail. Not only did I come away with an appreciation of the system but also the mail carriers of the USPS—they work hard for the money

The cargo room also fit a six-foot Christmas tree with ease. Added convenience came with the smart power liftgate with a sensor that automatically opened in three seconds when I approached from behind with the keys in my pocket and I didn’t have to wave my foot under the bumper like other systems require.

The keyless system with burglar and panic alarm, air conditioning, an AM/FM/CD/MP3/Satellite stereo system, back-up warning, Bluetooth wireless technology, and cruise control are also standard. Only weeks into the loan, however, the Sedona was vandalized outside of the neighborhood post office. The police officer who took down my report after the robbery explained that the alarm did not engage during the break-in because the vandals didn’t open the door, they just reached in to get what they wanted.

One feature that was lacking on the Sedona, however, was a rear entertainment system for viewing DVDs that most minivans offer—they’re a must-have for families on a road trip. According to Orth Hedrick, vice president, product planning, it is available as a dealer-installed option.

Pricing for the 2015 Sedona starts at $26,995 but you won’t be able to get features like a power liftgate or sliding doors or upgrade it with any options. The as-tested price, with $2,700 of additional equipment like lane departure warning and a surround view monitor, came to $43,295.

Sí: The Kia Sedona Is a handsome option, with versatility and a good list of standard and available features.

No: A rear entertainment system is a must for a minivan and it should be a factory option rather than dealer installed.

Reviews: Lexus GS350 vs. Infiniti Q50

Infiniti, Lexus, Reviews Comments Off

Dec 172015

Weekly car loans allow me to review vehicles for my readers, but it’s rare to have two vehicles delivered the same week that happen to be direct competitors. Such was the case when the Lexus GS350 F Sport and Infiniti Q50S arrived in my driveway. In a side-by-side comparison, these midsize luxury performance sedans managed to distinguish themselves. Here’s how they measured up.

Powertrain

A sports car sets itself apart in several ways, ride, handling, and most importantly, powertrain. The GS350 came equipped with the 3.5-liter V6 with direct fuel and port injection, 306 horses and 277 lb.–ft. of torque. The 3.7-liter V6 that powered the Q50 offered more horsepower, 328, but less torque, 269 lb.–ft.

Transmissions included an eight-speed automatic with paddle shifters on the GS and a seven-speed automatic, also with paddle shifters, manual shift mode and downhill rev matching on the Q50. They both included a drive mode selector to allow drivers to choose among Normal, Eco, Snow, or Sport modes on the GS and Standard, Eco, Sport, Personal, or Snow modes on the Q to enhance performance.

Q50 grey leather seats with purple accent stitching.

GS350 beige leather seats.

The F Sport Package on the GS added Sport S+ mode, a sport tuned adaptive variable suspension, and Variable Gear Ratio Steering, among other features.

While all-wheel-drive is available, the test models were configured as rear-wheel-drive sedans; the GS sat on a front independent double-wishbone and independent multi-link rear suspension and the Q sat on a sport-tuned independent front and rear suspension that gave it the rougher ride expected from a performance sedan. Adding to the Q’s sportier feel was speed sensitive power steering, making the Q50 a bit more fun to drive.

The expected fuel economy for each was practically identical with the Q50 earning 20 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city, one more than the GS, and both earning 29 mpg on the highway. I averaged 22 mpg with both.

Technology

GS350 12.3-inch display.

Q50 center stack.

As luxury nameplates, these sport sedans should be generously equipped with technology. Standard features on both included review cameras, traction and stability control, and anti-lock brakes, but the GS 350 trumped the Q50 by including Safety Connect with automatic collision notification. That neither included a blind spot monitor as a standard feature was disappointing.

The entertainment systems on both included an AM/FM stereo, CD player, Sirius Satellite Radio, and Bluetooth with voice recognition, but the Q50 included its infotainment system, InTouch and two USB connections, while the GS 350 added iTunes tagging, traffic, and climate information via HD radio. The optional navigation system on the Lexus brought Enform infotainment and a striking 12.3-inch display screen with three sections. Navigation on both was optional.

Looks

Inside and out, both vehicles were easy on the eyes. I’m a big fan of the distinctive spindle grille on the Lexus and Infiniti’s muscular lines. Both came with leather seating, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, keyless entry, dual –zone climate control, and a sunroof. While fancier features like heated seats were optional on the Lexus, they were standard on the Infiniti. The craftsmanship and fit-and-finish on both exuded quality.

Value

With a starting price tag that was $5,000 more than the Infiniti and about $10,000 more in packages and extra features, the GS350 surpassed the Q50 in plushness. The as-tested price for the 2015 GS350 F Sport came to $59,200, while the as-tested price for the 2015 Infiniti Q50S came to $47,755.

Sí: Both vehicles bore striking exteriors and elegant interiors.

No: They both came up short when it came to standard technology.

Reviews: 2015 Dodge Dart SXT

Dodge, Reviews Comments Off

Dec 052015

Trying to compete in one of the toughest automotive segments, the 2015 Dodge Dart hits the bull’s-eye with features not normally associated with compact cars, as well as neat styling and good fuel economy. I’ve driven it multiple times, including a three-month test drive, and most recently, in Los Angeles. My first impression remains the same—this is a lot of car for the money.

Dart trunk with 13.1 cubic feet of volume.

When it was introduced, the Dart was configurable in 100,000 possible ways. Not surprisingly, the features have since been bundled among five models, SE, SXT, Aero, Limited, and GT. On a test drive in California, I drove the SXT.

All Darts include the unmistakable Dodge split crosshair grille and racetrack tail lamps with 152 indirect glow LEDs. I was approached more than once in grocery store parking lots with questions and compliments about it.

On the inside, the dash grabbed my immediate attention, beginning with the seven-inch digital gauge cluster that can be configured in multiple ways to suit the driver’s preference, a capability normally found on luxury models.

The Dart’s 8.4-inch touchscreen above the center stack is easy to program, from radio station presets to Bluetooth. For 2015, it’s updated to be compatible with an Android smartphone for Bluetooth, voice command and streaming music, and USB connectivity.

The Dart was also one of the first in its segment to offer advanced safety features like a rear backup camera with dynamic grid lines, a blind-spot monitor, and rear cross path detection. I put these features to use navigating through shopping destinations and parking in Beverly Hills.

As a compact, the Dart must offer competitive fuel economy. It achieves this via three four-cylinder engines, a 2.0-liter, 2.4-liter, and 1.4-liter turbo. Happily, all three can be matched to three available six-speed transmissions, starting with a six-speed manual. I drove one of two available six-speed automatics. The best fuel economy should come from the 1.4-liter-six-speed-manual combination that has an EPA estimated 28 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city and 41 mpg on the highway.

Competing in the value driven compact car segment, the Dodge Dart certainly holds its own.

Pricing for the 2015 Dart starts at $17,490. For 2015, air conditioning, Bluetooth, cruise control and power equipment can be added to the Dodge Dart SE base model for a reduced price of $775. The test model Dart SXT also included the California Package that added a leather-wrapped steering wheel, dual rear exhaust tips, and a touring suspension, among other features. With that and more extras, the as-tested price came to $23,070.

Sí: Well-equipped, the Dart offers technology like a configurable gauge cluster, normally reserved for fancier models and a six-speed manual transmission on more than just the base model.

No: Air conditioning should be standard on a base model, not part of a package, even an affordable one.

Review: 2015 Chevy Trax LT

Chevrolet, Reviews Comments Off

Nov 212015

For 2015, Chevrolet opted to add yet another model to its lineup of small sport utility vehicles (SUVs), the 2015 Trax, its seventh small vehicle launch in four years. On a recent week-long test drive for Latino Traffic Report, the Trax put the “f” in functional and fuel-efficient.

Entering one of the fastest growing automobile segments, the Trax joins the Equinox, its slightly larger sibling that shares a platform with the Chevy Cruze. The Trax is built on the smaller Sonic platform, improving fuel efficiency and urban driving compatibility.

With seating for five, it has a 60/40 split rear row of seats that fold flat to create up to 48.4 cubic feet of cargo space. It’s a segment leader when it comes to interior functionality with 15 interior storage compartments including upper and lower storage in each door, and upper and lower glove boxes.

Powered by an Ecotec 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that’s matched to a six-speed automatic transmission, the Trax should achieve an EPA estimated fuel economy of 26 miles per gallon (mpg) city and 34 mpg highway. I averaged 30.3 mpg. Unlike its competitors, the Trax doesn’t offer a manual transmission.

Available in three trim levels, the test model was the Trax LT, one step up from the base LS and below the LTZ. While I drove a front-wheel-drive version, all-wheel drive is available on all models for an extra $1,500.

Additional functionality comes with standard remote keyless entry, programmable door locks, and a cargo storage tray.

Chevrolet MyLink Infotainment with a seven-inch-diagonal color touch screen is standard but the real standout is that OnStar, with 4G LTE and a built-in Wi-Fi hotspot, is too, offering even greater appeal to the always intriguing millennial population. On whenever the vehicle is on, the Wi-Fi comes with a three-month/three gigabyte data trial (whichever comes first). The Trax is also the first in its class to offer Siri Eyes Free for iPhone iOS 6, iOS 7 and iOS 8 users.

Because of its appeal to a population whose parents will probably purchase the Trax for them, it will be a comfort to know that it comes with ten standard air bags, StabiliTrak stability control, and a rear view camera. The test model also included the LT Plus Package ($670) that added a parking sensor, among other features.

Additional convenience features on the Trax include front-passenger fold-flat seats, a USB port for MP3s and iPods, air conditioning, power locks and windows, and an AM/FM stereo (the test model added XM Satellite Radio).

Pricing for the 2015 Trax starts at $21,195, a little above its competitors. The as-tested price came to $23,815.

Sí: The Trax offers nice functionality, advanced technology unique to its segment, and the security of OnStar.

No: I wish it came with a manual transmission option to improve fuel efficiency even more.

Review: 2016 Acura MDX

Acura, Reviews Comments Off

Nov 012015

With the launch of its platform mate, the all-new 2016 Honda Pilot, the Acura MDX also gets upgraded for 2016. While it may still look like the 2014 redesign, it contains more technology, luxury, and options than before.

Sharing a platform with the Pilot, there are several similarities, like push buttons for Park, Reverse, Drive, and Neutral rather than a shift knob. The seven-inch touchscreen in the center stack is similar to the Pilot’s except the MDX adds haptic touch—that buzzing sensation or thump you feel on your fingertips to help navigate the screen without looking at it.

All 2016 models are now equipped with a nine-speed automatic transmission to improve fuel economy. Paired with the 3.5-liter V6 and Variable Cylinder Management, it should achieve an EPA estimated 19 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. The test model I drove included idle stop technology that shuts the engine down at idle for saving even more gas, as well as Super Handling all-wheel drive. I averaged 21.2 mpg.

Additional luxury upgrades for 2016 include a frameless rearview mirror, Siri Eyes Free voice recognition, a tire pressure monitoring system with an audible alert to signal that the tire has been inflated to the correct pressure, and a Multi-View Angle Rear Camera with Dynamic Guidelines.

More advanced safety technology, however, will cost extra via the AcuraWatch, Advance or Technology packages. All the good stuff is here, e.g. Forward Collision Warning, the Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS), a blind spot warning system, even a parking sensor. It would be nice if one or more of these features were standard, especially at this price point.

The blind spot warning is located on the A-pillar rather than in the side mirror.

LKAS adds muscle with the new Road Departure Mitigation System that will keep you in your lane, including nudging the steering wheel or braking if necessary, so that it may feel like there’s a ghost in the machine.

The third generation MDX includes one of my favorite innovations, a push-button release on the side of the second row-seat and at the back of the headrest that moves the second row forward and to the side for easy access to the third row—no more broken nails at the hands of levers!

Second-row seat release button in headrest.

Second-row seat release button near the headrest.

Standard luxury features, like leather-trimmed seats, heated front seats, wood accents, a premium audio system, and tri-zone climate control combined with available technology should keep the popular SUV at the top of its segment, but ultimately, it’s all in the package.

Indeed, there’s a veritable alphabet soup of available features and packages, like the MDX AWD ADV ENT (MDX with all-wheel drive, Advance, and Entertainment packages) that I drove. Totaling 16 variations, it may make choosing what MDX you’d like a little challenging.

Pricing for the 2016 MDX starts at $43,785. The as-tested pricing came to $58,000.

Sí: Love the push button release on the second-row seats for access to the third row.

No: Too many safety features are available in optional packages rather than standard.

Review: 2016 Kia Sorento SX

Kia, Reviews Comments Off

Oct 152015

Offering the versatility of a minivan, the crossover utility vehicle (CUV) gives shoppers a jazzier option for the family vehicle. First introduced in 2002, the Sorento represents Kia’s larger entry in this segment. On a recent test drive for Latino Traffic Report, I drove the newly redesigned 2016 model, specifically the Kia Sorento SX. Sporting a more refined exterior, the dapper CUV provides more versatility, technology, and value.

With a choice of five trim levels—L, LX, EX, SX and SXL, the third generation Sorento maximizes bang for the buck, starting with a nicely equipped base model. Driving the model just shy of the top-of-the-line SXL offered even more stuff.

Families will appreciate the choice of seating for five or seven, with two- and three-row configurations respectively; both versions include split seats that can be folded flat, expanding cargo room to 73.5 cubic feet.

The test model came with the available all-wheel drive (AWD) system and the 3.3-liter V6. According to EPA estimates, the V6 should achieve 17 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city and 23 mpg on the highway. I averaged 21.8 mpg.

The V6 produces 290 horses giving it an increased towing capacity of 5,000 lbs. when equipped with the AWD system that automatically routes power to the wheel with the most traction.

Two other engine options include and a new 2.0-liter inline-four turbo and a gasoline direct injection (GDI) 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder. The most fuel-efficient of the mix will be the front-wheel drive 2.4-liter with an EPA estimated fuel economy of 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway.

All three engines are matched to an electronically controlled six-speed automatic transmission featuring Sportmatic simulated manual shifting. The standard Driver Mode Select allows drivers to choose among sport, normal, and eco modes, further improving driving performance on all models. I gravitate toward eco just to enhance fuel economy but a quick flick to sport does add oomph.

While standard safety features include traction and electronic stability control, the SX model did come with the optional rear-parking sensor, rear cross traffic alert, and blind spot detection. Happily, the Sorento received the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) 5-star overall safety rating.

Oddly, the around view monitor, lane departure warning, and forward collision warning are unavailable on most trim levels and optional, even on the top-of-the-line model.

While the base model starts with cloth seats treated with Yes Essentials for easier maintenance, the SX included leather seating and heated seats for the driver and front passenger. Cruise control, air conditioning, an AM/FM stereo with a CD player and MP3 connectivity, Sirius Satellite radio, Bluetooth, steering wheel mounted controls, and a fuel economy indicator, are also standard.

The SX added dual-zone air conditioning, push button start, a panoramic sunroof, navigation with an eight-inch display screen, and a smart, hands-free power liftgate.

Although I didn’t get to test it, the all-new Kia App Store offers apps that can be downloaded for free from iTunes or Google Play.

Built in the United States at the plant in West Point, Georgia and on sale now, the 2016 Kia Sorento has a starting price of $25,795. The as-tested price came to $40,595.

Sí: The Sorento is an elegant CUV from Kia with a good list of standard features.

No: Safety features like lane departure warning, and forward collision warning should be available on more than just the top-of-the-line model.

Kia Sedona-Long-term Review Pt. 1

Kia, Reviews Comments Off

Oct 012015

When it comes to versatility and convenience, minivans remain outmatched as a family vehicle. While the segment may not be the sexiest, it has attracted some new players, namely, the Kia Sedona. All new for 2015, the Sedona combines a handsome exterior with roominess and flexibility on the inside. I received the Sedona SX Limited (SX-L) in August for a six-month long-term loan. After only a few months on the road, the Sedona has impressed me with its elegance, comfort, and handling.

The beauty of a long-term loan is the chance it affords to explore all aspects of the vehicle in day-to-day driving conditions. This real world experience got a little too real, however, when the Sedona was vandalized while parked at the local post office, only weeks into the loan. The driver’s side window was broken and certain contents were stolen from inside, all in broad daylight and in a matter of seconds. The test drive was suspended for about a month until the window could be repaired.

Once back on the road, the Sedona has been quite a pleasure to drive. As with all Kias, it packs more features than normally associated with its segment, like ventilated as well as heated front seats, heated second-row cushions, a dual sunroof, and a driver mode select button (Eco, Normal, or Comfort), that helps improve the ride and handling as well as fuel economy.

I’ve only taken a few quick road trips but the miles per gallon have remained above the EPA estimated 17 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway, averaging above 20 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway. All Sedonas come with a 3.3-liter V6 engine matched to a six-speed automatic transmission with Sport-matic simulated manual shifting.

The keyless system with burglar and panic alarm, air conditioning, an AM/FM/CD/MP3/Satellite stereo system, back-up warning, Bluetooth wireless technology, and cruise control are also standard.

As the top-of-the-line model, the SX-L offers another unique feature, first class lounge chairs in the second row that give it seating for seven. Equipped with footrests, they recline as well as slide forward to improve access to the third row. They don’t however fold flat for extra cargo room and the manual levers can be a bit clunky to deploy. The third row, however, folds flat easily and quickly, expanding cargo room behind the second row to 78.4 cubic feet. The lower trims do include a second-row bench or traditional captain’s chairs.

Christmas is approaching and I look forward to testing the Sedona’s tree carrying ability. The loan ends in February. Stay tuned for updates on Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.

Pricing for the 2015 Sedona starts at $26,995 but you won’t be able to get features like a power liftgate or sliding doors or upgrade it with any option packages. The as-tested price, with $2,700 of additional equipment like lane departure warning and a surround view monitor, came to $43,295.

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