2017 Kia Sorento vs. 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe vs. 2017 Nissan Pathfinder

Winter is coming. No, we're not quoting "Game of Thrones," but the inclement weather that makes a rugged ride like a midsize SUV so appealing. When you're in a cold region and the roads are thick with frost or snow, it's vehicles like this that keep on trucking long after the sedans have stalled in the slush. Which is why we're going to do a side-by-side of three nice models in this class, the 2017 Kia Sorento, 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe and the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder.

If you would like a vehicle that can go off-road, whether it's snowing or perfect outside, then the 2017 Sorento has six trim levels that have available Dynamax All-Wheel Drive. That's more choice, and at a lower cost, than the off-road models available for the 2017 Santa Fe and the 2017 Pathfinder. You'll pay a starting MSRP of around $25,000 for the 2017 Sorento, which jumps up around $5,000 to start for either the 2017 Santa Fe or Pathfinder.

Find the Best SUV for the Money in Racine WI

If you would like to add to this savings the 2017 Kia Sorento's price provides you, then look no further than the fuel economy, which checks in at 21 mpg city, 28 mpg highway for the Sorento's base trim level, which edges the 2017 Pathfinder's 20 mpg city, 27 mpg highway but easily drubs the 2017 Santa Fe's 18 mpg city, 25 mpg highway. And with the 2017 Sorento you'll also enjoy compatibility with Apple CarPlay for iPhones or Android Auto for Android phones in models with UVO3 eServices.

Before we go, we'd like to share an important distinction the 2017 Kia Sorento has, and that is an IIHS Top Safety Pick, which means it is among the most crash-resistant midsize SUVs. The 2017 Santa Fe also shares this honor, although to date the 2017 Pathfinder does not have a Top Safety Pick. Bottom line, whether you would like a rugged SUV or a tech-savvy and safe ride, the 2017 Kia Sorento is the total package. Come visit us and take a model for a test drive at Frank Boucher Kia of Racine, 9601 Washington Avenue in Racine WI, though we also serve the area which includes Milwaukee, West Allis and Kenosha. For more information about the Kia models on our lot, call (262) 725-4041 or come visit us at the dealership.