Autoweek reviewed the 2016 Kia Sorento SX Limited on Monday, finding the SUV delivers a nice lineup of quality and premium features but not at a great value thanks to the $45,000 sticker price.

Their test Kia Sorento was option loaded -- in ranks with the top-shelf Honda Pilot, Ford Explorer and Chevrolet Traverse, leading the reviewers to wonder exactly who is Kia's target market?

When it comes to an overall rating, the Sorento earns high marks. The four-cylinder engine delivers adequate power with its 240 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 260 lb.-ft. of torque at 1,450-3,500 rpm. The more refined cabin eliminates the road noise found in its predecessor. The noise, vibration and harshness, along with material colors and choices, is above average although the SUV's design doesn't scream "luxury." It is a purposeful utility.

Best of all, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety named the 2016 Kia Sorento a Top Safety Pick, earning the top score of good, including the hard-hitting, small-overlap front crash test.

The impressive SXL technology package includes forward collision warning system, electronic parking brake, lane departure warning system, surround view monitor, smart cruise control and xenon HID headlights -- a $2,500 value, according to Kia Motors.

Heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, heated steering wheel, dual-zone HVAC, a panoramic sunroof and 14-way power driver and 8-way power passenger seats are also available.

The test driver took the Sorento out in treacherous Detroit weather. Winter tires and a press of the all-wheel drive lock button is all it took to successfully maneuver through the hazardous driving conditions.

"The Kia had excellent traction accelerating away from stoplights in the snow, and with traction control disabled, it was easy to use some light throttle to point the nose in the right direction,' wrote Autoweek Digital Editor and Kia test driver Andrew Stoy.

The major problem with the loaded Sorento, according to Stoy, is that the automaker assumes there are "Kia intenders" willing to pay more than $45K for the four-cylinder SUV to move up in the brand hierarchy. Kia has experienced dismal sales of its upscale K900 sedan and Cadenza, making it unlikely that brand devotees will stray from their Fortes or Optimas.