Hey car enthusiasts! Let's dive deep into the 2018 Kia Sorento LX Turbo, a mid-size SUV that often flies under the radar. This review will explore what makes this particular model tick, focusing on its performance, features, and overall value. For those considering a practical, family-friendly vehicle that doesn't skimp on style or technology, the Sorento LX Turbo deserves a serious look. The 2018 model year brought some exciting updates and improvements, making it a compelling option in a competitive market. We're going to break down the key aspects of this vehicle, from its turbocharged engine to its spacious interior, so you can make an informed decision. So, buckle up, and let's get started!

Performance and Driving Experience

When we talk about the 2018 Kia Sorento LX Turbo performance, the first thing that grabs your attention is, of course, the turbocharged engine. This isn't your grandma's SUV – it packs a punch! The 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivers a respectable 235 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. That torque is particularly noticeable, providing quick acceleration off the line and making merging onto highways a breeze. Kia has done a great job of tuning the engine to feel responsive in everyday driving situations. The engine is paired with a smooth-shifting 6-speed automatic transmission, which further enhances the driving experience. There's a decent amount of power available, and it's delivered in a way that feels refined and controlled. Whether you're navigating city streets or cruising on the open road, the Sorento LX Turbo handles itself admirably. The steering is light and precise, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces, and the suspension does a good job of absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road. Overall, the driving experience is comfortable and composed, making it a great choice for both daily commutes and longer road trips. The engine's responsiveness, combined with the smooth transmission, makes it feel more engaging to drive than you might expect from a mid-size SUV. The acceleration is particularly noticeable when you need to quickly overtake another vehicle or merge onto a fast-moving highway. The Sorento LX Turbo provides a satisfying blend of power and practicality, making it a versatile option for a wide range of drivers. Kia has definitely focused on providing a balanced driving experience.

One of the often-overlooked aspects of the driving experience is the overall refinement of the vehicle. The 2018 Kia Sorento LX Turbo excels in this area. Road and wind noise are well-suppressed, creating a quiet and comfortable cabin environment. This allows you to enjoy the premium features of the interior and have conversations with your passengers without having to raise your voice. Kia has clearly put effort into sound insulation, contributing to a more enjoyable driving experience overall. The Sorento LX Turbo isn't just about power and performance; it's about providing a comfortable and refined ride. The combination of a powerful engine, a smooth transmission, and a quiet cabin makes it a pleasure to drive, whether you're navigating city streets or embarking on a long journey. The ride quality is another important aspect of the driving experience. The suspension is tuned to provide a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road without feeling overly soft or floaty. This ensures that passengers are comfortable, even on longer drives. The Sorento LX Turbo strikes a good balance between comfort and handling, making it a well-rounded vehicle for a variety of driving conditions. The steering is responsive and precise, giving you a good sense of control over the vehicle. This makes it easy to maneuver in tight spaces, such as parking lots, and provides confidence when navigating winding roads. The Sorento LX Turbo is designed to be a driver-friendly vehicle, and the steering contributes to this goal. The combination of all these factors – the powerful engine, the smooth transmission, the quiet cabin, the comfortable ride, and the responsive steering – makes the 2018 Kia Sorento LX Turbo a pleasure to drive. It's a vehicle that's both practical and enjoyable, making it a great choice for families and anyone who values a well-rounded driving experience.

Interior and Features

Alright, let's talk about the inside of the 2018 Kia Sorento LX Turbo. Stepping inside, you're greeted with a surprisingly spacious and well-appointed cabin. Kia has done a great job of using high-quality materials, making the interior feel more upscale than you might expect for the price point. The layout is clean and user-friendly, with all the controls easily accessible. The seats are comfortable and supportive, even on long drives, and there's plenty of legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers. The LX trim comes standard with a decent array of features, including a touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a rearview camera, and a suite of advanced safety features. These features enhance the overall driving experience and provide added convenience and safety. The infotainment system is responsive and easy to use, making it simple to access your favorite apps, navigation, and music. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration allow you to seamlessly connect your smartphone, allowing you to use your favorite apps and features directly on the vehicle's touchscreen. The rearview camera provides a clear view of what's behind the vehicle, making it easier to park and maneuver in tight spaces. The inclusion of advanced safety features, such as blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, adds an extra layer of protection, helping to prevent accidents and keep you and your passengers safe. The interior is designed to be functional and comfortable, making it a great place to spend time, whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a family road trip. The use of high-quality materials and the thoughtful design of the interior contribute to a premium feel that sets the Sorento LX Turbo apart from its competitors.

The materials used throughout the cabin are of good quality, and the fit and finish are impressive. The dashboard and door panels are soft-touch, and the seats are well-bolstered, providing good support. The overall design is modern and stylish, with a focus on functionality and comfort. The infotainment system is a standout feature, offering a user-friendly interface and a wide range of features. The touchscreen is responsive and easy to navigate, and the graphics are crisp and clear. The inclusion of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is a major plus, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone with the vehicle's system. This allows you to access your favorite apps, navigation, and music directly on the touchscreen, making it easier and safer to use your phone while driving. The LX trim also comes with a variety of other convenient features, such as a push-button start, keyless entry, and automatic climate control. These features add to the overall convenience and comfort of the vehicle, making it a more enjoyable place to be. The spacious interior provides plenty of room for passengers and cargo, making it a great choice for families. The rear seats can be easily folded down to create a large cargo area, which is perfect for transporting luggage, groceries, or other items. The Sorento LX Turbo offers a great combination of comfort, convenience, and functionality, making it a well-rounded vehicle that's perfect for a variety of needs. The interior design of the Sorento LX Turbo is a testament to Kia's commitment to quality and value. It's a comfortable, spacious, and well-equipped vehicle that's sure to impress.

Trim Levels and Pricing

Let's break down the 2018 Kia Sorento LX Turbo in terms of trim levels and pricing, because it's super important to understand what you're getting for your money! The LX Turbo is typically positioned as a mid-range trim, offering a balance of features and value. You'll find it positioned between the base LX and the higher-end trims, offering the turbocharged engine as a key differentiator. Pricing can vary slightly depending on the condition and location of the vehicle, but you'll generally find it to be quite competitive within its segment. Kia has always been known for offering a lot of features for the price, and the Sorento LX Turbo is no exception. This makes it an attractive option for those looking for a well-equipped SUV without breaking the bank. The LX Turbo trim typically includes a generous list of standard features, such as the turbocharged engine, a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a rearview camera, and a suite of advanced safety features. This combination of features provides a great value proposition, making the Sorento LX Turbo a compelling choice for a wide range of buyers. The price point is often a major selling point for Kia, and the Sorento LX Turbo delivers on this front.

When considering the price, it's also worth noting the long-term value of the vehicle. Kia offers a strong warranty, which can provide peace of mind and help to protect your investment. The Sorento also has a reputation for reliability, further contributing to its long-term value. When you factor in the features, performance, and overall value, the 2018 Kia Sorento LX Turbo is a strong contender in the mid-size SUV market. The specific pricing can vary based on a number of factors, including the vehicle's mileage, condition, and any optional features that may be included. However, you can generally expect to find the LX Turbo priced competitively compared to its rivals. It's always a good idea to research and compare prices from different dealerships and sellers to ensure you're getting the best deal. Financing options are often available, making the Sorento LX Turbo accessible to a wide range of buyers. The combination of a competitive price, a generous list of features, and a strong warranty makes the 2018 Kia Sorento LX Turbo a smart choice for those seeking a practical, reliable, and well-equipped SUV. Kia has positioned the Sorento LX Turbo to be an accessible and value-packed option, making it an excellent choice for a variety of budgets and needs. The pricing strategy reflects Kia's overall commitment to providing excellent value to its customers, and the Sorento LX Turbo delivers on this promise. You're getting a lot of bang for your buck with this SUV. Make sure to check out your local dealerships or online listings to get a good sense of the current market prices in your area.

Fuel Economy

Alright, let's talk about fuel economy, because it's a big deal! The 2018 Kia Sorento LX Turbo offers competitive fuel efficiency figures for its class. You can expect to get around 20-22 mpg in the city and 26-28 mpg on the highway, depending on driving conditions and whether you opt for all-wheel drive. These numbers make it a relatively fuel-efficient SUV, which is great for both your wallet and the environment. Kia has done a good job of balancing performance and fuel economy in the Sorento LX Turbo. The turbocharged engine provides plenty of power while still delivering decent fuel efficiency. The 6-speed automatic transmission also contributes to fuel economy by optimizing gear changes for efficiency. The Sorento LX Turbo is a practical choice for those looking for a mid-size SUV that won't guzzle gas. The fuel economy figures are competitive with other SUVs in its class, making it a smart choice for daily commutes and longer road trips. The fuel efficiency of the Sorento LX Turbo is a positive factor for those looking to save money on gas and reduce their environmental impact.

It's important to keep in mind that actual fuel economy can vary depending on a number of factors, including driving habits, road conditions, and the vehicle's maintenance. However, the Sorento LX Turbo generally delivers on its EPA-estimated fuel economy figures. Regular maintenance, such as keeping the tires properly inflated and performing oil changes on schedule, can help to maximize fuel efficiency. If you are particularly concerned about fuel economy, it's a good idea to consider the front-wheel-drive (FWD) version, which generally offers slightly better fuel economy than the all-wheel-drive (AWD) version. The Sorento LX Turbo provides a good balance between performance, practicality, and fuel efficiency. It's a great choice for those who want a capable SUV that's also relatively easy on the wallet. The fuel economy figures are a testament to Kia's engineering expertise and their commitment to providing efficient vehicles. The fuel economy makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers who still want the versatility of an SUV. The 2018 Kia Sorento LX Turbo's fuel efficiency is a significant advantage, making it a cost-effective and environmentally friendly choice in the competitive SUV market.

Safety Features

Safety is a top priority, and the 2018 Kia Sorento LX Turbo doesn't disappoint. It comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features designed to protect you and your passengers. Standard safety features include anti-lock brakes (ABS), electronic stability control (ESC), a rearview camera, and multiple airbags. These features provide a strong foundation for safety, helping to prevent accidents and protect occupants in the event of a collision. The Sorento LX Turbo also offers a range of advanced safety features, depending on the trim level and options. These features may include blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. These advanced features provide an extra layer of protection, helping to prevent accidents and mitigate the severity of a collision. Kia has always prioritized safety, and the Sorento LX Turbo is a testament to this commitment. The combination of standard and available safety features makes it a safe and reliable vehicle for families and individuals alike. The safety features are designed to provide peace of mind, knowing that you and your passengers are well-protected on the road.

The rearview camera makes it easier to see what's behind the vehicle, especially when backing up or parking. The blind-spot monitoring system alerts you to the presence of vehicles in your blind spots, helping to prevent collisions when changing lanes. The rear cross-traffic alert system warns you of approaching vehicles when you're backing out of a parking space, helping to prevent accidents. Lane departure warning alerts you if you're drifting out of your lane, helping to prevent accidents caused by driver fatigue or distraction. Adaptive cruise control automatically adjusts your speed to maintain a safe following distance from the vehicle in front, reducing driver fatigue on long trips. The Sorento LX Turbo's safety features are designed to provide a comprehensive level of protection, making it a safe and reliable choice for a variety of driving conditions. Kia's commitment to safety is evident in the features offered, providing peace of mind to drivers and passengers. The combination of active and passive safety features makes the Sorento LX Turbo a safe and secure vehicle, earning high marks in safety ratings and providing a strong level of protection for its occupants. The safety features are a key selling point for the Sorento LX Turbo, making it an excellent choice for families and anyone who prioritizes safety on the road.

Conclusion

So, what's the verdict on the 2018 Kia Sorento LX Turbo? It's a solid choice in the mid-size SUV market, offering a compelling blend of performance, features, and value. The turbocharged engine provides a good balance of power and fuel efficiency, while the spacious and well-appointed interior offers comfort and convenience. With its competitive pricing and a long list of standard features, the Sorento LX Turbo represents a smart buy for those seeking a versatile and reliable SUV. It's a great option for families, commuters, and anyone who values a well-rounded vehicle that doesn't compromise on practicality or style. Kia has managed to pack a lot of value into the Sorento LX Turbo, making it a strong contender in a highly competitive market. If you're looking for an SUV that's both fun to drive and practical for everyday use, the Sorento LX Turbo is definitely worth a look. The combination of a powerful engine, a spacious interior, and a long list of features makes it an excellent choice for a variety of needs. Kia has designed the Sorento LX Turbo to be an appealing option for a wide range of buyers, and it delivers on its promise of value and performance.

Ultimately, the 2018 Kia Sorento LX Turbo is a well-rounded SUV that offers a lot for the money. It's a practical, reliable, and stylish vehicle that's perfect for families and anyone who values a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience. Whether you're looking for a vehicle for daily commutes, weekend getaways, or family road trips, the Sorento LX Turbo is sure to impress. Consider the Sorento LX Turbo, especially if you're looking for an affordable, well-equipped, and fun-to-drive SUV. Kia has hit a home run with this model. Go test drive one; you won't be disappointed! Thanks for reading, and happy car hunting! Don't forget to research and compare to find the best deal for your needs. Always check the vehicle's history report for any potential issues. Also, consider the specific needs of your family and lifestyle when making your final decision. Enjoy your drive! We hope this detailed review has helped you. Go and find yourself a great car! Remember to always prioritize safety when driving. Have a great day and happy driving, guys!