New Kia Sorento with a modern feel
The new KIA Sorento is here, longer, lower and wider than before and with a cabin that follows a 'modern and wide' theme, which is evident through the horizontal layout of the instrument cluster, interior trim and the wrap-around dashboard that extends into the door trims.
The new Kia Sorento has a modern feel. Picture: Supplied
A higher proportion of soft-touch materials and leather creates a modern, luxury feel to the cabin and gives the new Sorento the ambience of a genuinely premium interior space. All Sorento models come as standard with a Saturn Black interior, with cloth or leather trim.
Depending on the model grade, the all-new KIA Sorento is equipped with one of two instrument binnacles. In entry-level guise, the new Sorento comes as standard with a 3.5-inch mono LCD screen that displays all major trip computer information in one place, such as vehicle range and average and instant fuel consumption.
Higher specification models feature a seven-inch colour TFT LCD screen, with an electro-luminescent instrument cluster and digital speedometer that further improves the modern form and function of the interior while displaying all relevant journey information selected from the multi-function steering wheel.
The new Kia Sorento has a modern feel. Picture: Supplied
As the latest model in KIA’s modern vehicle line-up, the Sorento is available with a range of multimedia entertainment options, including six speakers around the cabin. In entry-level models, information is displayed on a 3.8-inch display, while higher specification grades feature a 4.3-inch colour screen that incorporates a rear-parking camera.
Available in five- or seven-seat versions, the new Sorento features 40:20:40 second row split folding seats for improved versatility, with a higher folding centre armrest. Depending on the model grade, the second-row seats can be ‘remotely’ folded by conveniently located levers in the side of the cargo bay.
Depending on the model, the 10-way power-assisted driver’s seat is engineered with a number of features to improve comfort, including four-way lumbar support and an extending knee support, both available at the touch of a button. Additionally, four-way headrest movement is also on offer, while two preferred settings for the driver’s seat and rear view door mirrors can be stored, thanks to the Integrated Memory Seat (IMS) functionality.
The new Kia Sorento has a modern feel. Picture: Supplied
Although the roofline is 15mm lower, repositioned seat cushions ensure increased headroom for occupants in all rows and greater legroom in the third row of seven-seat models. Cargo space also increases: luggage capacity, with the third row seats folded flat is up 17.5% from 515 to 605 litres, while five-seat versions of the Sorento have a large 660-litre boot. Seven-seater models also feature a new under-floor tonneau cover storage compartment and integrated cargo net to secure loose items.
The new Sorento has a number of advanced on-board technologies, including a Blind Spot Detection system which uses radar sensors to monitor approaching vehicles from the rear in the lanes flanking the driver. If a vehicle is detected, a visual alert appears on the side view mirrors. Linked to the system is a Lane Change Assist function: if the Blind Spot Detection system detects an approaching vehicle in the blind spot, and the turn signal is activated in an attempt to change lanes, the Lane Change Assist emits an audible warning.
Also new to the Sorento is a Smart Power Tailgate, which automatically opens when the key is ‘sensed’ in close proximity to the trunk. When owners approach the rear of the vehicle and the key is within the correct range of proximity, the trunk opens automatically after three beeps.
The new Kia Sorento has a modern feel. Picture: Supplied
The Smart Power Tailgate also features and electric closing mechanism and memory function for opening height. Local KIA Sorento models come with a choice of either a 2.4-litre multi-point injection petrol engine or the company’s much-loved 2.2-litre ‘R’ turbodiesel engine. The petrol produces 127kW and 225Nm, while the diesel makes 147kW and 440Nm.
KIA offers the all-new Sorento in front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configuration, with a choice between six-speed manual and automatic transmissions – the combination dependent on the specification grade.
The new Kia Sorento has a modern feel. Picture: Supplied
KIA SA will offer the new Sorento in four specification grades, ranging from LS and LX at the entry level to the mid-spec EX and top-spec SX. All models come with a five-year/150 000km warranty, as well as three years of unlimited roadside assistance. The Sorento 2.4 LS comes as standard with a four-year/90 000km service plan, while LX, EX and SX models include a five-year/100 000km maintenance plan.
