2017 Kia Sorento

Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are now available, as is an expanded driver-assist portfolio that includes forward-collision warning, autonomous braking and radar adaptive cruise control. The SX Limited features a full suite of standard driver-assist technologies and gains Dynamic Bending Headlights. Two new packages are added: the Advanced Technology package and Advanced Touring package.

The 2017 Sorento EX offers great value, providing extensive standard features without breaking the bank. We'd go with the V6 over the 2.0-liter turbo, as the latter isn't all that fuel efficient for a 4-cylinder, and the V6 with AWD can tow up to 5,000 pounds versus the turbo's 3,500-lb rating.

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The 2017 Sorento is offered in L, LX, EX, SX and Limited trim levels. The L comes only with two seating rows, but a third-row seat is optional on the LX and standard on the LX V6, EX V6 and SX.

The Sorento L ($26,295) includes a decent roster of standard items, notably 17-inch aluminum wheels, air conditioning, power accessories and a 6-speaker audio system with a USB port and full Bluetooth connectivity.

The LX ($27,595) adds such luxuries as additional sound-deadening measures, roof rails, a 4.3-in touchscreen and a rearview camera.

The EX ($32,395) throws in 18-in wheels, rear parking sensors, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, leather upholstery, a power driver's seat, a UVO 3.0 telematics head unit with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, heated front seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and dual-zone automatic climate control.

The SX ($39,495) upgrades to 19-in wheels, a power tailgate with a foot sensor, a panoramic sunroof, keyless entry/start, rear cross-traffic alert, a blind spot monitoring system, additional power adjustments for the driver's seat, driver memory functions, a high-resolution 8-in navigation touchscreen with voice controls and a 10-speaker Infinity audio system with a subwoofer and HD Radio.

The Limited ($44,795) tacks on Nappa leather upholstery, cooled front seats and heated second-row seats, Dynamic Bending Headlights, an Around View monitor, a leather and wood heated steering wheel, and all the driver-assist features and equipment in the two optional Advanced packages.

The LX Convenience package adds dual-zone automatic climate control, rear park assist, a 10-way power driver's seat with power lumbar support and heated front seats, plus Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone interfaces.

The EX Premium Package adds a 110-volt outlet, a power liftgate, LED interior lighting, power folding mirrors, chrome roof rails and auto up/down power windows.

The Advanced Technology package adds autonomous emergency braking, forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning and an electronic parking brake.

The Advanced Touring package adds the contents of the Advanced Technology package, plus a panoramic sunroof and LED interior lighting.

The Sorento offers solid passenger space in its sliding-and-reclining second-row seats, with plenty of room for 6-footers despite slightly lower seat bottoms than expected in a midsize crossover. The third row is designed for kids; you need to be pretty limber to climb back there, and legroom is limited once you're situated. Still, it's a handy feature, and adults can squeeze back there for short trips if necessary.

Cargo space is 11 cu ft. behind the third row (if specified), which is enough room for groceries, while a maximum of 74 cu ft. is available with the rear rows collapsed. Conveniently, the second-row seats can be folded via auxiliary levers mounted in the cargo bay.