Latest news with #midSizeSUV
News.com.au
3 days ago
- Automotive
- News.com.au
Kia Sportage line-up expands but one variant and trim hits the mark
Kia has introduced Australia's most loved mid-size SUV in four powertrains, four trim levels, 12 variants, and nine colours from Clear White to a slick new Wolf Grey and Heritage Blue. With options ranging from a $37,990 (plus on-road-costs) front-wheel drive 2.0-litre petrol to a GT-Line AWD hybrid ($60,000 plus-on-road costs). There's no shortage of choice, with the line-up including a 2.0-litre petrol, 1.6-litre turbo petrol, a 2.0-litre turbo diesel (AWD only) or a 1.6-litre hybrid, in either front or all-wheel drive, and across four trim levels (S, SX, SX+ and GT-Line). The auto giant has also kept the diesel, which means its one of the only brands offering it among its direct competitors, following the exit of the Hyundai Tucson, Mazda CX-5 and Volkswagen Tiguan. MORE: EOFY 2025 ultimate motoring guide for car sales The exterior has had some tasteful updates including new front and rear bumpers, restyled LED headlights and a revised LED tail-light signature. Every variant now gets a two-spoke steering wheel which feels a little chunky for someone with small hands but looks great. Plus a 12.3-inch infotainment screen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Wireless phone charging is now included from SX+ upwards. The GT-Line now features a curved 12.3-inch digital driver display, ambient mood lighting and heated rear seats. While the GT-Line grabs headlines, it's a little pricey, asking for over $60,000 in hybrid AWD form, that's $13,000 more than the base petrol S. That's why the SX+ hits the mark, priced at $47,080 (plus on-road costs) for the turbo petrol AWD, it comes with 19-inch alloy wheels, heated front seats and steering wheel, dual-zone climate control, Harmon Kardon premium audio, wireless phone charging and smart key and hands-free power tailgate. While the diesel still appeals to many buyers and the base petrol remains the most affordable entry point ($37,990), new emission regulations mean the petrol may be on its way out, which makes the Hybrid the sweet spot. The Hybrid is now offered in SX and GT-Line trims and for the first time you can opt for either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. I tested the hybrid and was genuinely impressed by how well it handles everyday driving. The 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine with a 44.74kW electric motor delivers a combined 173kW and 367Nm, the most powerful configuration in the Sportage line-up. Around town, it's calm and composed, with the electric motor doing most of the heavy lifting at low speeds. Acceleration is smooth and surprisingly punchy when you ask for it. It's paired to a six-speed automatic transmission and feels refined. The hybrid claims 4.9L/100km combined for FWD and 5.3L/100km for AWD, real world figures weren't far off. Boot space is generous with 586 litres (seats up) and 1827L with seats down, perfect for families. There's also a full size spare wheel in petrol and diesel models. Safety is consistent across the board with all trims offering Kia's full suite of advanced driver assistance systems, including AEB with junction assist, lane following assist 2, and blind spot collision avoidance. Verdict The Kia Sportage offers plenty of choice for Aussie families, whether you want petrol, diesel or hybrid, front-wheel or all-wheel, basic or luxurious, there's something for every buyer. Just be ready to do your homework. If you want something under $50k, efficient with plenty of technology and comfort, I'd opt for the hybrid FWD (1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine with electric motor), trim level SX for approximately $46,450 plus on road-costs, certainly seems like the sweet spot.
Car and Driver
05-06-2025
- Automotive
- Car and Driver
2026 Ford Explorer Review, Pricing, and Specs
Overview Long a pillar of its segment, the Ford Explorer continues to provide a familiar mid-size solution to three-row family schlepping. After a much-needed mid-cycle refresh that upped its interior game last year, the Expedition's cabin is modern and spacious in the first two rows. Its wayback seating is passable for children and can be folded down when not in use, revealing a competitive amount of cargo space. The choice between a turbocharged four-cylinder and a twin-turbo V-6, along with either rear- or all-wheel drive, means the Explorer offers plenty of variety. However, it lacks the well-rounded appeal of rivals like the Mazda CX-90 and Kia Telluride, which are both more upscale and less expensive. What's New for 2026? Ford hasn't revealed any specific details on the 2026 Explorer. However, last year's mid-cycle refresh brought subtly revised exterior styling, interior design improvements, and a revamped tech suite, so it's unlikely that the Explorer will change in any significant way for 2026. Pricing and Which One to Buy The price of the 2026 Ford Explorer is expected to start around $42,000 and go up to $56,000 depending on the trim and options. Active $42,000 (est) ST-Line $47,000 (est) Tremor $53,000 (est) Platinum $54,000 (est) ST $56,000 (est) 0 $10k $20k $30k $40k $50k $60k $70k $80k $90k We think the ST-Line makes the most sense. It has the sporty cosmetic features of the ST and keeps the standard 300-hp turbo four-cylinder, but it's also significantly less expensive. It rolls on standard 20-inch painted alloy wheels (the Active has 18s), tows the same 5000 pounds as the V-6-equipped Explorers, and opens the door to the optional BlueCruise and black painted roof, which aren't available on the base Active. It also includes a 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system, a flat-bottom ST steering wheel, heated second-row seats, and power folding mirrors. We'd also add all-wheel drive for $2000. Engine, Transmission, and Performance The base Active, ST-Line, and Platinum trims come with a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine rated for 300 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. The ST is powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6 rated at 400 horsepower and 415 pound-feet, and this V-6 is also optional on the Platinum. (All power figures are dependent on premium fuel.) A 10-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive are standard, but all-wheel drive is available. In our test drive, we found the Explorer's driving experience to be nearly identical to the previous version. Ride and handling are composed and predictable, and the Explorer ST's extra power makes it legitimately quick. 0–60-MPH Times The base turbocharged 2.3-liter inline-four motivates the Explorer with a reasonable amount of authority. When we tested the Explorer with the four-cylinder engine in the now-discontinued Timberline trim in 2022, it hit 60 mph in 6.0 seconds. The lead-footed drivers among us will prefer the ST model, which is powered by a 400-hp twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6 and got to 60 mph in 5.1 seconds in our testing. View Exterior Photos Michael Simari | Car and Driver Towing and Payload Capacity The maximum towing capacity for the 2026 Ford Explorer is 5000 pounds. All models come with the Class III Towing package, which includes a hitch, a trailer wiring harness, and a trailer sway control system. Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG The EPA hasn't released any fuel economy information for the 2026 Explorer yet, but without any significant changes, the newest Explorer should achieve similar results as last year's model. The thriftiest 2025 model had rear-wheel drive and the turbo four, which earned it ratings of 20 mpg city and 29 highway; all-wheel drive drops the highway figure 2 mpg. With the twin-turbo V-6, the 2025 Explorer was rated for 18 mpg city and 25 highway with rear- or all-wheel drive. On our 75-mph highway route, a 400-hp Explorer ST earned 25 mpg. We also tested a four-cylinder Explorer with all-wheel drive on our 75-mph highway fuel-economy route, where it returned 28 mpg, beating its EPA estimate by 1 mpg. For more information about the Explorer's fuel economy, visit the EPA's website. Interior, Comfort, and Cargo The Explorer's interior design has generally favored function over form, but its comfortable cabin got a boost last year with some new interior color schemes and the incorporation of more soft-touch materials on the center console, door panels, and dashboard. Getting into the standard third row is fairly easy thanks to a mechanism that moves the second-row seat out of the way at the touch of a button. Once back there, however, taller kids and adults will find that the seat is too close to the floor to be comfortable. Rivals such as the Chevrolet Traverse and Volkswagen Atlas provide more comfort in the third row. We managed to fit four carry-on suitcases behind the Ford's third row, and we fit a total of 31 carry-ons with both back rows folded flat. View Interior Photos Michael Simari | Car and Driver Infotainment and Connectivity A 13.2-inch LCD touchscreen infotainment system is standard. Standard software, dubbed the Ford Digital Experience, allows drivers to access apps and services from Google and Amazon, as well as with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto through compatible devices. With the vehicle parked, it allows users to stream videos from YouTube and other providers, browse the internet, and play games via Google Play. There are also eight USB ports—including two for third-row passengers and three 12-volt power sockets. A 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen stereo is standard on all but the base Active Explorer. Safety and Driver-Assistance Features Ford outfits every Explorer with a host of standard driver-assistance technology and offers upgrades such as self-parking assist. For more information about the Explorer's crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include: Standard forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking Standard blind-spot monitoring and rear-cross-traffic alert Standard lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assist Warranty and Maintenance Coverage Ford provides wholly average limited and powertrain warranties that align with most competitors' plans. However, the company doesn't provide the complimentary maintenance that Toyota and Chevy do. Limited warranty covers three years or 36,000 miles Powertrain warranty covers five years or 60,000 miles No complimentary scheduled maintenance Specifications Specifications 2025 Ford Explorer ST AWD Vehicle Type: front-engine, all-wheel-drive, 6-passenger, 4-door wagon PRICE Base/As Tested: $57,755/$66,140 ENGINE twin-turbocharged and intercooled, DOHC 24-valve V-6, aluminum block and head, direct fuel injection Displacement: 180 in3, 2956 cm3 Power: 400 hp @ 5500 rpm Torque: 415 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm TRANSMISSION 10-speed automatic CHASSIS Suspension, F/R: struts/multilink Brakes, F/R: 14.3-in vented disc/13.8-in vented disc Tires: Pirelli Scorpion Zero All Season 275/45ZR-21 110W M+S DIMENSIONS Wheelbase: 119.1 in Length: 198.7 in Width: 78.9 in Height: 69.8 in Passenger Volume, F/M/R: 63/56/36 ft3 Cargo Volume, Behind F/M/R: 85/46/16 ft3 Curb Weight: 4788 lb C/D TEST RESULTS 60 mph: 5.1 sec 100 mph: 13.8 sec 1/4-Mile: 13.8 sec @ 100 mph 130 mph: 29.1 sec Results above omit 1-ft rollout of 0.3 sec. Rolling Start, 5–60 mph: 5.8 sec Top Gear, 30–50 mph: 3.1 sec Top Gear, 50–70 mph: 3.7 sec Top Speed (C/D est): 146 mph Braking, 70–0 mph: 172 ft Braking, 100–0 mph: 350 ft Roadholding, 300-ft Skidpad: 0.83 g C/D FUEL ECONOMY Observed: 16 mpg EPA FUEL ECONOMY Combined/City/Highway: 20/18/25 mpg C/D TESTING EXPLAINED More Features and Specs
Car and Driver
24-05-2025
- Automotive
- Car and Driver
2026 Kia Sorento Review, Pricing, and Specs
Overview While the larger Telluride steals much of Kia's mid-size three-row SUV limelight, the Kia Sorento is a handsome, well-equipped, and affordable family hauler. Variety is a major part of the Sorento's appeal, with a pair of engine options and an assortment of trims on offer. A 191-hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder or a 281-hp turbocharged 2.5-liter provides either the front or all four wheels with decent thrust, and an off-road-oriented X-Pro trim is available for outdoorsy folks. While the Sorento's thrifty price and laundry list of standard features make it a tempting option next to pricier competitors like the Honda Pilot and Kia Palisade, it falls short on third-row space and cargo capacity compared to those models. What's New for 2026? The Sorento was given a somewhat recent mid-cycle refresh in 2024 and carries on into 2026 unchanged. Pricing and Which One to Buy The price of the 2026 Kia Sorento is expected to start around $34,000 and go up to $49,000 depending on the trim and options. LX $34,000 (est) S $37,000 (est) EX $40,000 (est) SX $44,000 (est) EX X-Line $44,000 (est) SX X-Line $45,000 (est) SX Prestige X-Line $48,000 (est) SX Prestige X-Pro $49,000 (est) 0 $10k $20k $30k $40k $50k $60k $70k $80k We like the EX. It's pricier than the base Sorento, but it comes with nicer amenities, including faux-leather upholstery, heated front seats, parking sensors, and a larger 12.3-inch infotainment display. Engine, Transmission, and Performance The Sorento has two engine options and is available with front- or all-wheel drive. A 191-hp 2.5-liter inline-four-cylinder engine is standard, and a 281-hp turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder is available too. Both pair with an eight-speed automatic transmission, and the hybrid model uses a six-speed automatic. We drove a top-of-the-line SX trim with the turbo-four and appreciated its noticeable thrust, but we wish the powertrain felt more responsive off the line. The same model delivered poised handling, a nicely isolated ride, and firm brake-pedal feedback. The X-Pro trim comes only with the turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder and gets a center locking differential, 17-inch wheels, and all-terrain tires. 0–60-MPH Times While we haven't tested the newest Sorento yet, we suspect the 60 mph times we've recorded on previous model year variants will still apply. We estimate that the most powerful turbocharged trims will be capable of a 6.0-second run to 60 mph and that the nonturbo Sorentos could need as long as 9.6 seconds to hit the same speed. View Photos Kia More on the Sorento SUV 2024 Kia Sorento X-Pro Is Movin' On Up Towing and Payload Capacity Although the Kia Sorento won't move mountains, its marginal towing capacity could prove helpful in some situations. The maximum towing capacity for the Sorento is 4000 pounds in X-Pro guise. Though the Sorento can't match the V-6-powered Kia Telluride's 5000-pound tow rating, it still can haul a couple of jet skis or small farm animals—depending on your lifestyle. Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG The EPA hasn't released any fuel economy information for the 2026 Sorento yet, but last year's model returned up to 23 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway when equipped with the base 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. The more powerful turbocharged 2.5-liter four received ratings of 20 mpg city and 29 mpg highway. Without any significant changes, the newest model should achieve similar, or identical, results. When we get a chance to take the Sorento on our 75-mph highway fuel-economy route, we'll update this story with real-world test results. For more information about the Sorento's fuel economy, visit the EPA's website. Interior, Comfort, and Cargo The Sorento's interior has an attractive layout, nice materials, and solid build quality. The dashboard is bookended by two upright air vents but is otherwise simplistic in its design. Ambient lighting is smartly incorporated into the cabin and stitched surfaces on the door panels and seat inserts provide an upscale appearance. A variety of cubby storage spots and cupholders contribute to the Sorento's family-friendly mission. Along with a standard third row, its second-row bench can be swapped for a pair of captain's chairs. Compared with the larger Telluride, the Sorento's far-back seats aren't comfortable for adults, and we only managed to fit two carry-on suitcases in the cargo area with the third row in place—two fewer than the Telluride. View Photos Kia Infotainment and Connectivity The Sorento comes with an infotainment setup that consists of two screens mounted side-by-side in a curved panoramic display. A 4.3-inch digital gauge display and a separate 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen are standard, but higher-end trims get a larger 12.3-inch reconfigurable gauge display instead. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard. Other features include an optional wireless charging pad, a 12-speaker Bose stereo system, and a rear-seat entertainment system. Safety and Driver-Assistance Features The Sorento enjoys a roster of standard and optional driver-assistance technology. For more information about the Kia's crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include: Standard automated emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection Standard lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assist Available adaptive cruise control with a lane-centering feature Warranty and Maintenance Coverage Kia has one of the most impressive warranty plans in the industry. However, it doesn't offer the complimentary maintenance that its corporate counterpart, Hyundai, does. Limited warranty covers five years or 60,000 miles Powertrain warranty covers 10 years or 100,000 miles No complimentary scheduled maintenance Specifications Specifications 2024 Kia Sorento Vehicle Type: front-engine, front- or all-wheel-drive, 6–7-passenger, 4-door wagon PRICE LX, $33,365; S, $35,765; S AWD, $37,765; EX, $39,365; X-Line EX AWD, $43,065; SX, $43,065; X-Line SX AWD, $44,865; X-Line SX-Prestige, $47,765; X-Pro SX-Prestige, $48,765 ENGINES DOHC 16-valve 2.5-liter inline-4, 191 hp, 195 lb-ft; turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 16-valve 2.5-liter inline-4, 281 hp, 311 lb-ft TRANSMISSIONS 8-speed automatic, 8-speed dual-clutch automatic DIMENSIONS Wheelbase: 110.8 in Length: 189.6 in Width: 74.8 in Height: 66.7 in Passenger Volume, F/M/R: 57/55/32 ft3 Cargo Volume, Behind F/M/R: 76/39–45/13 ft3 Curb Weight (C/D est): 3850–4300 lb PERFORMANCE (C/D EST) 60 mph: 6.0–9.6 sec 100 mph: 15.4–26.0 sec 1/4-Mile: 14.6–17.5 sec Top Speed: 124–131 mph EPA FUEL ECONOMY Combined/City/Highway: 23–26/20–23/27–31 mpg More Features and Specs
