THINK of a 4x4 and names like Land Rover, BMW and Lexus would probably spring to mind.
With such big beasts in the jungle, you'd be forgiven for believing the humble Kia Sorento would be facing a constant battle for survival.
But think again.
The Korean motor manufacturer has seen another huge increase in world sales of its award-winning 4x4.
And the reason is not simply because the Sorento costs many thousands of pounds less than its more prestigious rivals.
Of course it is a bargain buy with prices starting from around £20,000.
But bargains are only that if you also have value for money - and you certainly get that with the Sorento.
This particular model was a 2.5-litre turbodiesel which, along with others in the range, underwent an upgrade earlier this year.
Welcome modifications include stylish new front and rear bumpers, headlamps and tail lights. An audible reversing aid is also now offered to help reduce the risk of parking knocks.
The Sorento suspension has also been modified for better balance. It was certainly a surprisingly smooth ride - a fact confirmed by my father-in-law who owns the more expensive and little bumpier BMW X3.
The Sorento looks fabulous inside and out and boasts a new design centre console, well laid-out controls and higher quality materials.
Restyled front seats and multi adjustable rear backrests have also increased legroom for rear passengers. And the boot is huge offering 1,960 litres of space.
Standard equipment includes dual-zone air conditioning, CD player, trip computer, alloy wheels and electric windows.
The 2.5-litre, four cylinder engine is powerful enough for your needs and offers a very reasonable 33mpg.
The excellent five-speed automatic gearbox also comes with a manual setting, but I was perfectly happy going on auto-pilot.
You get a lot for your money with the Kia Sorento, which recently clinched a second successive top spot in the 4x4 category in the prestigious JD Power customer satisfaction survey.
It has also been voted tops by the Caravan Club and the 4x4 magazine.
The judges obviously agree - this is a great buy at a great price.
FAST FACTS
Kia Sorento 2.5 CRDi XE auto
Price: £19,095
Mechanical: 168bhp, 2,497cc, 4cyl diesel engine driving all four wheels via 5spd automatic gearbox
Max speed: 113mph
0-62mph: 11.9 secs
Combined mpg: 32.8
Insurance group: 12
CO2 emissions: 228g/km
BiK rating: 35%
Warranty: 3yrs/ unlimited mileage, 3yrs paint, 6yrs anti-rust