Kia Sorento Hybrid

How it looks when you see on the street: The hybrid version of Kia’s three row midsize SUV checks so many boxes for us, it’s hard not to consider it, for the very deliberate SUV buyer. It’s not a standout in any particular category, but it certainly is no slouch, and one of our top contenders in a slightly more efficient, spacious SUV package.We took this ride to a state park and a museum, and felt like the Sorento basically fit in where ever we went, in an unobtrusive manner.

How it makes you feel when you get in: The Sorento interior has something to offer. Standard features include a 10.25-inch touch screen, navigation, Bluetooth, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, voice recognition, satellite radio, a six-speaker stereo, and eight USB ports A 12-speaker Bose system is optional. The second row cabin chairs make the best use of comfort and space in the rear.

How it drives: After a full charge, the Sorento has 32 miles of range which covers a fair amount of local errands. It averages 79 mpg — on par with other plug-in of its size. The tradeoff for the hybrid is that the Sorento loses some of its zing, so it all comes down to what matters most.

Space for people and things: Passengers have plenty space, but like many three-row SUVS it’s hard to squeeze in everything without going fullsize. As a result, when third row is in use cargo space is minimal.

Best Features: The inclusion of a plug-in-hybrid model is a huge boost to the Kia line up.

What should you compare it to: Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid and the Toyota Highlander Hybrid.

How much is it: We drove the EX package, smack dab in the middle of the feature set, which starts at $35,00 and adds standards such wireless device charging, adaptive cruise control and, front parking sensors.