Dear Drive… why did the Kia Sorento win the 2021 Drive Car of the Year award?

Reader David asks:

The requirements of a family car have changed a lot in recent years. Where once space and touring performance were the key deciders, families are now looking more at economy, technology, safety and overall value.

Well, we were when considering the 2021 Kia Sorento in the 2021 Drive Car of the Year awards.

In terms of David's core needs, the Sorento answers the brief.

The three-row layout offers plenty of flexibility and room for growing families, plus the car offers a long warranty and a 2-tonne tow rating to tick his other requirement boxes.

But seven-seats and a tow bar do not a winner make, so to get a few more insights as to why the big Kia impressed the Drive team so much, we invited some of our DCOTY judges to share their thoughts on the Sorento, particularly in regard to the flexible interior, sharp styling and expansive list of safety and convenience technology included.

Let's face it, the new Sorento is a very stylish looking machine, regardless of trim grade or colour choice. From the multibeam LED headlamps, and strong, muscular body lines, to the metallic flourishes and unique twin tail-lamp array, Kia have done a superb job of bringing big end of town style to a mass appeal car.

Initially launched with a 148kW/440Nm 2.2-litre turbo-diesel and all-wheel drive, and now available with a 200kW/332Nm 3.5-litre petrol V6 and front-wheel drive, the Sorento ticks the box in terms of adequate power and touring economy. Where it really impressed was due to the dual-clutch transmission mated to the diesel, as it provides a smooth and exceptionally well-aligned driving experience both in town and on the open road.

Packaging is also crucial for a seven-seat SUV, and the Sorento's upmarket finishes combined with easy to use interior functions make it a winner with all family members. Single-button access to the third row, plenty of USB charge points and clever features like cup-holders integrated into the door trims, all combine to show the car was heavily considered in context of its primary users.

Technology and safety too, are at a level once expected only from high-end European brands. Remote parking, a central front-seat airbag, and autonomous emergency braking at intersections are just some of the items that have made their way onto the Sorento, signifying a clear step forward for a once challenger brand.

Combine this with the noted seven-year warranty, 2000kg towing capacity and capped price servicing schedule, and the Sorento will not only fit your requirements, but support your family for years to come.

Have a question about your next set of wheels, or just need some car advice? No query is too big, small or obscure! Call in to the radio show (Trent on 2GB Sydney 1:30pm Monday and 9pm Wednesday, 5AA South Australia 1:30pm Tuesday, and James on 3AW Melbourne 9pm each Thursday), or contact us by email here: contactus@drive.com.au.