Friday, January 29, 2021

Kia Telluride and Sorento Both Rank in Top Four of Car and Driver's “Best Mid-Size SUV” Roundup

Three-row crossovers may not be the vehicles out there that have the planet's ultimate environmental salvation or frequent off-road trips up their sleeve, but they are the ideal solution for buyers with large families and a fair amount of stuff. Here at Jim Butler Kia of St Louis and other dealerships nationwide, these are useful haulers that can carry around at least 8 passengers, a fair amount of sporting and recreational equipment, and still deliver superior fuel economy than their close relatives in the form of full-size SUVs. 

The Car and Driver staff puts together some of the most useful top-lists in the industry, as a new buyer can quickly scan one over and get an idea of a vehicle that could be best suited for their needs. For the past year's offerings, they provided a down-to-earth ranking of mid-size SUVs ranked from worst to best, and we were thrilled to see that the Kia Sorento and Telluride were both present in the top 4, with the Telluride perched triumphantly at #1. 

The 2021 Kia Sorento enjoyed a complete redesign this year and has exciting changes to offer both inside and outside. Engine options are the base and step-up turbo four-cylinder variants, as well as a brand-new hybrid version. An 8.0-inch touchscreen comes as standard, with the step up to a 13-inch model as an option on higher trims. The upscale materials used in the cabin have helped make it a natural home-run with consumers and reviewers alike, and the second-row bench seats can also be switched over to the captain's chairs to provide easy access for the third row. 

The standard navigation system on SX models will now include an integrated model that allows for vehicle function controls to be handled remotely and notify you quickly if any passengers are left behind. There is the choice of Normal, Eco, and Sport modes to provide intense adjustment for steering effort, throttle response, and transmission fluidity. 


The 2021 Telluride won such distinguishable and high honors for boasting top-tier luxury while possessing a price point in the middle of the segment. Also snagging a spot on the 10Best List that Car and Driver dole out annually, outperforming the competition every time in the most crucial categories. For 2021 there is the addition of the Nightfall appearance package, offering blacked-out accents and a perfectly sinister look. 

The EX trim acquires LED headlights when included in the Premium package, and Sangria along with Black Copper are awesome new paint options for select models. One great way to enhance this spectacular and award-winning vehicle is with the SX Prestige package, which adds a head-up display, heated and ventilated second-row seats, and nappa leather upholstery. Thinking of escaping suburbia for some action on jet skis or the pontoon? The tow package's hitch and self-leveling rear suspension take things up a notch to prepare for an adventurous departure!