The 2008 Kia Sorento Base gets a new engine this year, a 3.3-liter, 242-hp DOHC V6. Paired with a 5-speed sequential shift automatic, the engine delivers 228 ft-lbs of torque, averages 16/22 mpg, and can tow up to 3500 pounds with the optional tow hitch.

The compact/mid-sized Sorento Base is a rear-wheel drive SUV, riding on a double wishbone front and multilink rear suspension. Only offered with two rows, rear legroom is a cramped 36 inches, and cargo capacity starts at a mere 31.7 cubic feet. The rear seats do split-fold flat 60/40. A cargo cover, tie-downs, and in-floor storage compartments are standard in the cargo area, and the rear window opens separately from the liftgate. A cargo tray costs extra.

16-inch alloy wheels with all-season tires, 4-wheel disc and ABS brakes, traction and stability control, skid plates, and a tire monitor are all standard safety features for the 2008 Sorento Base. Dual front-side, side curtain for both rows, front knee airbags, and head restraints help garner five stars in crash tests. However, the Sorento Base only rates three stars in rollover tests. Standard equipment includes power windows, locks, and mirrors, a CD player, intermittent front and rear wipers, a tachometer, tilt steering, privacy glass, and four power outlets spread out in both rows and the trunk. A 10-speaker audio system is connected to the CD/MP3 player. Remote start and side step bars are available options.