What's up, everyone! If you're looking for a seriously capable and stylish SUV that won't completely break the bank, you've gotta check out the 2017 Kia Sorento Platinum. This ride was a real game-changer back in its day, offering a ton of premium features and solid performance for its price point. We're diving deep into what made this particular Sorento trim so desirable, covering everything from its killer price when it first hit the market to the awesome features you get. So, buckle up, guys, as we explore why the 2017 Sorento Platinum was such a smart buy!

The Value Proposition: 2017 Kia Sorento Platinum Price Point

Let's get straight to the good stuff – the 2017 Kia Sorento Platinum price. When this beauty rolled off the production line, it was positioned as a premium yet accessible option in the mid-size SUV segment. While exact prices could fluctuate based on dealership, location, and any ongoing promotions, you could typically expect the 2017 Sorento Platinum to start somewhere in the high $30,000s to low $40,000s range when new. Now, that might sound like a chunk of change, but here's the kicker: the Platinum trim wasn't just a badge; it was packed with features that usually cost way more in other vehicles. Kia really nailed the value for money here. They understood that buyers wanted that luxury feel and advanced tech without needing to spend top dollar on luxury brands. So, when you compared the Sorento Platinum to its rivals, it often came out on top in terms of the sheer amount of stuff you got for your cash. This made it an incredibly attractive option for families and individuals who needed space, comfort, and a touch of sophistication. Even today, as a used vehicle, the 2017 Sorento Platinum continues to offer fantastic value, making it a smart pick for budget-conscious buyers seeking a well-equipped SUV.

Platinum Perks: What Made the 2017 Sorento Platinum Stand Out?

So, what exactly did you get for that 2017 Kia Sorento Platinum price? Well, let me tell you, Kia pulled out all the stops for the Platinum trim. This was their top-of-the-line model, and it showed. Forget basic; we're talking about a vehicle that felt decidedly upscale. Exterior-wise, you'd typically find larger alloy wheels, often 19-inch beauties, giving it a more aggressive and premium stance. There were also upgraded exterior trim pieces, like chrome accents, adding a touch of elegance. Inside, this is where the Platinum trim really shone. We're talking about Nappa leather-appointed seats, which are super comfortable and look fantastic. The driver's seat usually came with 14-way power adjustment and power lumbar support, plus heating and ventilation – yeah, you read that right, ventilated seats! The front passenger also got a power-adjustable seat. You'd find premium wood-grain or metallic trim accents throughout the cabin, making it feel much more luxurious than you might expect. The infotainment system was top-notch for its time, usually featuring a large touchscreen display with navigation, and a premium Harman Kardon surround sound system. Forget tinny speakers; this audio setup was designed to impress. Other notable Platinum features often included a panoramic sunroof, push-button start with smart key, LED interior lighting, auto-dimming rearview mirror, and advanced safety features like blind-spot detection, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane change assist. Honestly, it felt like Kia was throwing in everything but the kitchen sink to make this trim the ultimate Sorento experience. It was the perfect blend of practicality and luxury, making every drive a more enjoyable affair.

Performance and Powertrain Options

Under the hood, the 2017 Kia Sorento Platinum offered a choice that catered to different needs, but the top-tier Platinum trim usually came standard with the more powerful engine. Most Platinum models were equipped with a 3.3-liter V6 engine. This bad boy delivered a healthy 290 horsepower and 252 lb-ft of torque, giving you plenty of get-up-and-go for merging onto highways or carrying a full load of passengers and cargo. This V6 was paired with a smooth-shifting 6-speed automatic transmission. And get this, the Platinum trim often came standard with all-wheel drive (AWD). This was a huge selling point for those living in areas with inclement weather or for anyone who just wanted that extra bit of traction and stability. The AWD system could intelligently distribute power between the front and rear wheels, enhancing grip and confidence on various road surfaces. For those who preferred a more fuel-efficient option, lower trims of the 2017 Sorento offered a 2.4-liter four-cylinder or a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, but the V6 was the heart of the Platinum experience. The ride quality was also a strong point, with Kia tuning the suspension for a comfortable and composed feel, absorbing bumps and imperfections with ease. Steering was responsive, making the Sorento feel more agile than its size might suggest. Overall, the powertrain and drivetrain options, especially the potent V6 and available AWD on the Platinum, made the 2017 Sorento a compelling choice for those seeking a reliable and capable family SUV that could handle daily commutes and weekend adventures with equal aplomb.

Interior Comfort and Space: A Family-Friendly Haven

When you're talking about an SUV like the Kia Sorento, especially the Platinum trim, interior comfort and space are paramount. Kia really nailed it with the 2017 model. First off, this SUV offered three rows of seating, meaning you could haul up to seven people if needed. While the third row is best suited for kids or shorter trips for adults, it adds incredible versatility for those times you need to shuttle extra friends or family. The second-row legroom and headroom are generous, making it a comfortable spot for adults on longer journeys. And as we touched on earlier, the Nappa leather seats in the Platinum trim were a game-changer. They weren't just about looks; they were supremely comfortable, with excellent support for long drives. The heated and ventilated front seats were a godsend, keeping you cool in the summer and toasty in the winter – seriously, once you've had ventilated seats, it's hard to go back! The driver's seat, with its 14-way power adjustments, meant finding that perfect driving position was a breeze. Beyond the seats, the cabin felt spacious and airy, especially with the panoramic sunroof letting in plenty of natural light. Storage solutions were plentiful, with numerous cup holders, door pockets, and a decently sized center console. Cargo space was also very practical. With the third-row seats folded down, you had a substantial amount of room for groceries, luggage, or sports equipment. Folding down the second row opened up even more space, making the Sorento capable of handling larger items. The overall design of the interior was user-friendly and logically laid out, with physical buttons for key functions like climate control and audio, which many drivers still prefer. It was a cabin designed for real life, blending luxury appointments with the everyday practicality that families demand. It truly felt like a premium space to spend your time, whether commuting or on a road trip.

Technology and Safety Features: Staying Connected and Protected

In 2017, the Kia Sorento Platinum was ahead of the curve when it came to technology and safety features. For starters, the infotainment system was a highlight. Most Platinum models came with a slick 8-inch touchscreen display that housed the navigation system, making it easy to find your way around. Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming was standard, keeping you connected safely. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were starting to become more common around this time, and while not universally standard on all 2017 Sorentos, higher trims often included them or were close to it, so it's worth checking specific vehicles. The premium Harman Kardon sound system with 10 speakers was a definite audio upgrade, providing crisp and immersive sound quality for your music and podcasts. Beyond entertainment, the Sorento Platinum focused heavily on driver assistance and safety technologies. This was crucial for a family-oriented SUV. Standard or available features often included: Blind Spot Detection (BSD), which warns you if a vehicle is in your blind spot; Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA), super helpful when backing out of parking spots; Forward Collision Warning (FCW), alerting you to potential front-end collisions; and Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), which could apply the brakes automatically to help avoid or mitigate a crash. Lane Departure Warning (LDW) was also available to help keep you within your lane. Add to this the standard safety suite – airbags all around, stability control, ABS, and a rearview camera – and you had a vehicle that was designed to protect its occupants. The combination of advanced tech and robust safety features made the 2017 Sorento Platinum a confident and reassuring choice for families on the go.

The Used Market: Is a 2017 Kia Sorento Platinum Still a Good Buy?

So, you're eyeing a 2017 Kia Sorento Platinum on the used market today. That's a smart move, guys! Given its original price point and the sheer amount of features packed into that Platinum trim, these vehicles represent excellent value for used car shoppers. You're getting a lot of the luxury, comfort, and tech that you'd find in much newer or more expensive vehicles, but at a fraction of the original cost. When looking for a used 2017 Sorento Platinum, keep an eye out for well-maintained examples. Regular maintenance records are your best friend. Check for things like how the brakes and tires are holding up, and if the interior and exterior are in good condition. Given that many Sorentos were used as family vehicles, check for wear and tear on the seats, carpets, and any electronic components. A pre-purchase inspection (PPI) by an independent mechanic is always a wise investment to uncover any potential hidden issues. Despite being a few years old, the 2017 Sorento Platinum remains a compelling option because it was built with quality components and a focus on durability. Its V6 engine, especially when paired with AWD, offers reliable performance, and the interior features like leather seats and a premium sound system still hold up well. If you can find one with relatively low mileage and a good service history, you're likely looking at a vehicle that can provide many more years of dependable service without breaking the bank. It's a testament to Kia's build quality that these vehicles remain desirable even years after their debut. So yeah, if you're in the market for a spacious, well-equipped, and comfortable SUV that won't empty your wallet, the 2017 Kia Sorento Platinum is definitely worth considering. Consider.