THE Kia Sorento 2.5-litre CRDI turbodiesel has won the title of Car of the Year 2003, in the annual 4x4 Magazine awards.

The award judges summed up the reasons for the Sorento’s success.

They said: “Everyone was struck by how well designed the Kia is, how well put together it is and most importantly, how proficient it is in sticky, tricky off-road situations.

“Yes, there are those who will be put off by the badge, but more fool them.”

Beating off competition from the Mercedes-Benz ML 270, Mitsubishi Shogun Sport and the Toyota Land Cruiser to win the “large 4x4” category, the Sorento went on to beat six other category winners to claim the title, Car of the Year.

The full test report in the September issue of 4x4 Magazine concluded: “Those who are tempted by the Sorento, probably including many newcomers to the sports utility lifestyle, will quickly appreciate the qualities that lift it to the top of our 4x4 of the Year league table - spaciousness, comfort, driving enjoyment, refinement and sheer value for money.”

Paul Williams, managing director of Kia Motors (UK), said: “The efforts to match the Sorento’s quality and performance with the best in the sector has paid off.”

The Sorento 2.5 CRDi XE is priced £17,995; the top-of-the-range Sorento 2.5 CRDi XW automatic is £21,995.