IF YOU don’t think the Koreans are serious about beating the Japanese in Australia, then take a long, hard look at the second-generation Sorento. This is the sort of vehicle that does exactly what you expect it to do – from accommodating seven people in reasonable comfort and security, to offering plenty of features for the money. But Kia is doing things differently these days, thanks to a renewed emphasis on quality, design, and safety, while the R-series CRDi diesel under the pretty bonnet is an absolute corker of an engine. Only a few minor hiccups taint what is otherwise an impressive and affordable seven-seater SUV package.