India, Oct. 23 -- Kia isn't dipping a toe into the premium SUV market with the Sorento. It's diving in. There are two engines, front- or all-wheel drive, six- and seven-seater options and 32 versions to choose from. And starting at Rs.27.99 lakh, it's also priced to make rivals nervous.

The Sorento is the biggest SUV in its class, yet it doesn't feel that way from the outside. The vertically stacked headlights and neat, sharp detailing give it a crisp, expensive look, the kind German brands have long used to signal quality. A gently sloping roofline softens its bulk, so it seems more like a large, upmarket crossover than a traffic bully in the Fortuner mould. If you want a car that intimidates, look elsewhere. If you want one that will s...