2011 Kia Sorento

Previously an also-ran within its competitive class, the 2011 Kia Sorento has lost its truck-based platform and is now one of the most comfortable-riding and powerful compact SUVs. It’s even giving class leaders, like the Toyota RAV4, a run for their money. The Sorento has an optional third-row seat (rare in this class), class-leading warranties, and impressive standard features like Bluetooth.

Kia estimates its fuel economy at 21/29 mpg city/highway. This is about average for the class, but it’s quite good considering that the Sorento can accommodate up to seven passengers. In fact, few seven-passenger SUVs cost less or net more miles per gallon than the Sorento. And even fewer can touch its 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty 2011 Kia Sorento