22 Kia Sorento: Korean in origin but American in style

2016 has been a year when being American became something of a pejorative. Whatever your view on the outcome of the US presidential election, there’s little doubt that America’s reputation abroad has been damaged anew. So it’s refreshing to note that the Kia Sorento, an avowedly Korean car, manages to be so charming and so appealing by actually being rather American, in both style and spirit. It’s not the America or Trump nor Clinton, but rather more of Jimmy Stewart though - the Sorento is comfortable and amiable to sit in and drive, has solid family values with its seven seats and big boot and good old American (Korean) gumption with its likely reliability prospects and its lengthy warranty. A little thirsty, perhaps? A little heavy on Co2 emissions? Well, we did say it was American, after all.

Price range: €38,995 to €49,500

Co2 emissions: 149 to 177g/km

Which one? 2WD Platinum is the one to have, but stick with a manual to keep the Co2 under control.

PCP: from €337 per month