Auto review: The 2021 Kia Sorento is one you'll remember

There are certain things in life you’ll always remember: your first love, a fun vacation, a night out at a particular restaurant (sometime prior to March).

But if asked to recall a trip to the supermarket last month in any detail, odds are you would draw a blank. Why should you remember such an unremarkable moment in your life?

Cars can be like that too: so boring, humdrum and unmemorable that driving them is as thrilling as buying a new box of dryer softener sheets. That has long been true of the Kia Sorento, a vehicle that I have test driven since its inception. But for the life of me, I can’t recall any of them. The all-new, fully redesigned 2021 Kia Sorento will change that.

It’s an exceptional entry in the compact crossover world, and one that ably competes with the best in its class, particularly its Japanese competition. It’s also the first one I can remember after having returned the test vehicle.

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The Sorento is at the small end of the midsize crossover utility vehicle segment. It's sold in base LX and step-up S trims powered by a normally aspirated 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and an 8-speed automatic transmission rated at 191 horsepower and 181 pound-feet of torque. Tonier EX, SX, SX Prestige and SX Prestige X-line models are blessed with a more powerful turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission that generates 281 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque, more torque than is offered in the Telluride.

You could be forgiven for thinking the Sorento is little more than a junior Telluride. But its driveline imbues it with a different character. The turbocharged four propels the Sorento with muscular authority, so if you want the turbo motor, you might want to opt for all-wheel drive, as front-wheel-drive models are bound to have torque steer. Once the turbo is spooled up, you’ll find the driveline to be responsive and authoritative. The dual clutch transmission shifts very quickly and comfortably. If it’s not quick enough, you can use the shift paddles mounted on the steering wheel. But the biggest surprise came from the Sorento’s ride and handling, which is far better than any previous model. Yes, it’s a very firm ride, but it never feels harsh or uncomfortable, a feeling reinforced by the shockingly quiet cabin.

Like the exterior, the interior design has a very loud visual vocabulary, as evidenced by the test vehicle’s diamond-quilted leather seats. The matte-finish wood trim felt chic and upscale, however, and fit and finish were very good. The cabin is spacious and features three rows, although the third row is best for the smallest of children or people you detest. Otherwise, leave it folded and expand the 12.6 cubic-foot cargo hold to 38.5 cubic feet. Folding the second row nearly doubles that. Speaking of second rows, there are captain’s chairs in the EX trim and above.

It makes for a compelling value, one that’s more appealing due to the Sorento’s agility and sizeable interior. It’s a crossover that reminds you that choosing it was the right decision by comfortably and competently handling your every whim, day after day.

And that makes it memorable.