One can easily say that Korean car manufacturers are responsible for making the SUV market more competitive by combining affordable prices with state-of-the-art features. Among the models with the best value for money are the Hyundai Santa Fe and the Kia Sorento. Both were released in the early 2000s, with the Hyundai model only a year earlier in 2001. Nonetheless, these cars can easily stand against newer models owing to their efficiency and reliability.
Exterior
Both models stand at 1.69 meters tall but it is the Kia Sorento which has a slightly bulkier build at 4.78 meters long and 1.89 meters wide. Both SUVs also have a chrome plated radiator grille, roof rails, electric door mirrors, and a high mount stop lamp. However, what sets the 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe apart from its competitor is its sleek overall look due to additional features like body colored front and rear bumpers, a rear spoiler, and body colored door handles.
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Interior
The Hyundai Santa Fe’s two-toned modern interior also is a far contrast from the Kia Sorento’s dull design. Space is maximized and each feature is perfectly designed into place, which is no wonder why the slightly smaller Santa Fe has a cargo capacity of 1,680 liters compared to the bigger Sorento’s 1050-liter capacity.
Nonetheless, the Kia model boasts more features than its rival. Both vehicles offer power steering, central locking systems, and are capable of seating up to seven people. But in addition to these features, the Sorento has a trip computer, a multi information display, steering tilt adjustment, tire pressure monitoring display, and vehicle stability control.
Performance
These Korean SUVs are also neck and neck in terms of their performance, since both vehicles run on 2.4-liter engines. The Santa Fe’s engine produces 174 horsepower and 225 NM of torque, allowing it to reach speeds of up to 190 km/h. On the other hand, the Sorento’s engine is matched with a 6-speed gearbox and produces 170 horsepower and 225 NM of torque, with a maximum speed of 189 km/h.
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Verdict
The starting price for the Hyundai Santa Fe 2017 is AED 86,900, with the Kia Sorento 2017 right behind at AED 87,000. The price difference is not significant, so the choice would depend on the user’s specific needs. Users who prefer stylish designs, speed and spaciousness could easily opt for the Hyundai Santa Fe; while those who prefer to drive an easily navigable vehicle with extra usability features could always choose the Kia Sorento.
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