AWD SUV $50,000-$65,000

Kia Sorento GT-Line

The Kia Sorento has returned to the winner’s list following a subtle but well thought out model update late in 2017, which has made a very good vehicle even better.

Of course, there were the usual minor cosmetic changes necessary to distinguish the new model from its predecessor but the real differences lay beneath the surface. The diesel versions get an all-new conventional-style eight-speed automatic. Having two extra gears provides a better spread of ratios, which helps the 2.2-litre turbo-diesel deliver strong performance and general drivability, both on and off the road.

Even more noticeable, though is the reduction in fuel consumption and the vehicle’s smoother and quieter operation all round. Kia’s local engineering team has further worked to fine tune the suspension and make it better suited to Australian road conditions. The end result is a compliant, controlled ride that is amongst the best in the class.

This sure-footedness also continues off-road where the Sorento shows plenty of agility. The highest-selling version in the Sorento line-up is the top-spec GT-Line AWD diesel model.

Over recent years, buyers have recognised the long-term value-for-money proposition of it, which now has extra features including a premium sound system, bigger touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration, a 360-degrees camera view and LED headlights that turn with the steering to help see where you’re heading.

A comprehensive suite of advanced safety technologies supports Sorento’s excellent five-star ANCAP rating. Highly desirable autonomous emergency braking with a forward collision warning system is now standard across the range, together with a host of other safety features including lane keep assist, driver attention alert, rear-view camera and hill start assist.

The GT-Line adds blind spot detection and cross traffic alert. Relatively affordable running and repair costs, the reassurance of seven years capped price servicing and the peace of mind provided by Kia’s class-leading seven-year warranty should also be considered in the buying decision.

The Sorento is a practical and classy family wagon. Seven seats are standard and space and comfort are both considered amongst the best in class. Leg room in the third row, which is an area many vehicles in this class fall short, is relatively good in the Sorento, but could still be tight for large adults to travel long distances.

The GT-Line’s interior is well appointed with leather trim and impressive build quality creating a genuine luxury look and feel. Ergonomically, the Sorento is one of the best in class, with clear instrumentation and well laid out controls that fall naturally to hand, which all play a significant role in the vehicle’s overall driving ease.

In such a large and hotly contested category, it’s the Sorento’s consistently high standards over all aspects of long-term ownership (value for money, design and function, and on-road ability) that makes it a worthy class winner in this year’s Australia’s Best Car awards.