A few decades ago, getting the trifecta of carlike handling, a sport-utility view of the road and the prospect of all-wheel drive might have seemed a fantasy for auto shoppers. But this is 2012, and there is no shortage of the now-named crossovers, many of which go beyond compact into the midsize realm.

One of those is the Kia Sorento, which Wheels editor Jimmy Dinsmore and freelance automotive writer Dave Mikesell examine this week.

JIMMY: This is now the second generation of the Sorento. It still has a sturdy, truck-like appearance, however, it is now more inline with other crossover vehicles by being built on a car platform. But those who previously liked the Sorento for its rugged ability and appearance won’t be disappointed.

DAVE: The Sorento has standard seating for five people and an optional third-row bench adds room for two more folks. Don’t be misled, though. Simply adding two more seats does not make this midsize a full-size vehicle. Those rearward passengers will be cramped, and access won’t be easy as the second-row seat is heavy to tilt forward. However, the third-row seat does fold flat and the second row nearly so. There can be 72.5 cubic feet of space for cargo.

JIMMY: Like many other Kias, the car maker does not skimp on materials. Even base models enjoy nice touchpoints including a telescoping steering wheel, dual climate control, power seats with lumbar support and leather-wrapped steering wheel and gearshift knob. My tester included heated front seats, leather in the first and second row seats and a navigation system. I really liked the panoramic moonroof which opens for the front row and provides a view for the second row. Enough about the aesthetics already, Dave, tell us how it drove.

DAVE: Perhaps the biggest change for the 2012 Sorento is the addition of a more powerful 4-cylinder engine. The entry-level 175-horsepower 2.4-liter engine remains but now there is a 2.4-liter gas direct injection 4-cylinder that increases horsepower to 191. This is the one that I tested and found to be quite capable. Plus, it increases the EPA mileage a smidge to 28 MPG on the highway with all-wheel drive. A third engine is available on the top-of-the-line Sorentos, a 276-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 that should be a real crowd pleaser.

JIMMY: As I mentioned, the Sorento is now built on a car unibody frame. This gives it less of a truck-like feel. You still get the higher vantage point afforded to trucks, but the ride is definitely more car than truck. It is agile with its handling and has a smooth, comfortable suspension which can rival luxury crossovers.

DAVE: Sorentos come in Base, LX, EX and SX trims with prices starting at $21,250 for the FWD Base and topping out at $34,850 for the AWD SX that has the V6 engine. Our EX with AWD was in the middle at $27,650 but easily surpassed $30K with a Premium Package that included leather upholstering, navigation system, surround sound audio system and the aforementioned third-row seat among other items. Still, to fit your particular needs, the Sorento seems to be a worthy entrant in its field.

JIMMY: I agree, Dave. Crossovers are so popular right now, and for good reason. Kia definitely keeps up with the Joneses with this second generation of the Sorento. It is roomy, multi-functional and performs well as a family hauler or a weekend warrior. It’s a jack-of-all-trades type of vehicle.