2017 Kia Sorento vs Chevy Equinox

Kia Sorento vs Chevy Equinox

The crossover segment is getting more and more crowded as each new yearly refresh comes and goes. It's the fastest growing industry segment since the minivan boom a couple decades previously. And it's also why automakers make sure to keep theirs updated and looking fresh.

Two such crossovers are the 2017 Kia Sorento and the Chevy Equinox. Each offers up some unique features and benefits, but only one really encapsulates what it means to be an affordable, forward-thinking SUV with safety, style, and performance to spare. The 2017 Kia Sorento is a value-oriented ride with comfortable seating for five and a stylish exterior. And while the Sorento sets out to be a mid-size crossover for all, the Chevy Equinox is a crossover that really hasn't aged well, nor has Chevy put as much effort into creating a modern SUV as did Kia.

So what sets the new 2017 Sorento apart from the Equinox? Price is just a start, but options, style, and performance are just a start.

Mid-Size Crossover SUVs Go Head to Head

One area where the 2017 Sorento pulls ahead of the Equinox is in the option department, whether that be under the hood, or overall. The 2017 Kia Sorento offers up a wide array of trim levels for the recent refresh, including the L, LX, EX, SX, and SXL trim levels.

On top of those choices, the Sorento also comes with a variety of engine options, one for pretty much any need for those buyers looking for a family transporter, to a more hefty SUV. For 2017 we see a naturally aspirated, 185-hp 2.4-liter engine that comes standard on the L and LX, a 240-hp 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder exclusive to the Sorento EX, and the largest of all, the 290-hp 3.3-liter V-6 engine that's available on the LX or EX trim levels. Each engine is paired to a six-speed automatic transmission and can come in front-drive or all-wheel drive.

Compare that to the 2017 Chevy Equinox, which gets 4 trims of its own, yet only 2 engine options, of which the larger V-6 requires a bit more fuel than its Sorento counterpart. The 2.4-liter direct-injection inline-4, making 182 horsepower and the available 301-hp, 3.6-liter V-6 come paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission are front wheel drive standard, but with an all-wheel drive available.

Beyond that, the 2017 Chevy Equinox is largely unchanged from the previous year, meaning Chevy didn't fully commit to a refresh. Last year, the Equinox received some safety equipment updates as well as light cosmetic upgrades for the front-fascia here, and body design, but unfortunately the chassis is distinctly more car-like than truck, with a boxier look than the sleek 2017 Sorento.

Why the 2017 Sorento is a Must-Buy

Kia is known for their affordability, in fact it's what they built their brand-name on. However, over the years they recognized a low price can only get them so far. So when redesigns like the 2017 Sorento comes along, it's no surprise they went after it with a gusto, creating not just an affordable crossover, but a stylishly advanced SUV that can cater to a wide range of buyers. SO if you're in the market for a new, good looking, and affordable crossover, make sure to check out the new 2017 Kia Sorento before any others.