7 things you need to know about the new Kia Sorento

Staff Writer

The KIA Sorento is a favourite of ours because it offers decent space, an impressive diesel engine and all-wheel drive. These features make the Sorento a versatile and appealing option within the segment. Now though there is a new model, which by the looks of it is going to set new standards within the segment. Here are 7 things you need to know.

This will be Kia’s most high-tech car ever, thanks to its progressive connectivity, driver assistance and infotainment technologies. Its user-friendly twin digital displays deliver advanced graphics, new telematics features and smartphone connectivity.

In profile, the proportions of the Kia Sorento are subtly adapted to make it appear longer. The new model is 10mm longer than its predecessor (now 4,810mm), yet it features shorter front and rear overhangs. The additional length is found in the wheelbase (a result of the Sorento’s new platform), which has grown by 35mm to 2,815mm. This subtly adapts the visual character of the Sorento, making it look longer and ‘faster’, despite being 10mm taller.

One of the highest quality interior spaces found in any Kia to-date, the intuitive, tech-oriented cabin of the Sorento is fitted with premium-quality materials and cutting-edge infotainment. At the same time, it retains the spaciousness and versatility that has characterised the Sorento over its 18-year existence.

The attractive, upscale cabin introduces a sophisticated next-generation design, based around twin digital displays in the dashboard. The 12.3-inch digital driver instrument cluster is twinned with a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment and navigation system at the centre of the dashboard. These display information clearly within the driver’s line of sight, and create an innovative wide-screen user experience. The car’s many functions can also be controlled with new haptic buttons on either side of the screen, which also feature further down the dashboard for the climate control system.

The Sorento offers generous space for up to seven passengers as well as one of the largest luggage capacities in its class – up to 821 litres (for seven-seat models) or 910 litres (for five-seat models), depending on specification. This means the car can accommodate five people in comfort, and a significant amount of luggage. In seven-seat models, with all seven seats in place, boot space is also increased by 32 per cent compared to its predecessor, to 187 litres

While Kia South Africa is remaining tight lipped about what engines we will be getting, reports suggest that there is a new diesel engine. The new four-cylinder 2.2-litre ‘Smartstream’ diesel engine is also available for European customers, producing 148kW and 440Nm torque. With a new aluminium block, 19.5kg lighter than the cast iron block of its predecessor, the new engine is 38.2kg lighter compared to that found in the third-generation Sorento. Furthermore, it is paired with Kia’s new eight-speed wet dual-clutch transmission (8DCT).

The all-new Sorento, has made a strong start to the year, being named ‘Large SUV of the Year’ at the 2021 What Car? Car of the Year Awards. Up against worthy competition in the Large SUV category, the What Car? The judging panel chose the Sorento for its impressive fuel economy, driving dynamics, high levels of standard specification, and exceptional build quality.

The new Sorento should be on its way to South Africa this year and we will be sure to keep you informed about its arrival.

Like this article?

Let there be light

2023-09-27

It happens far too often that I walk into a store, pick up a hand-held spotlight and look at the specs
– only to find that one says lumens, another says lux and the last reads something about candle power or candela. What are the key differences and what should I look out for when shopping for suitable lighting solutions for my set-up? – JOHAN BRUWER.

Selling dreams

2023-02-23

Ismail Suder, through his Instagram channel, “sells” the dream of adventure in Stallion, his trusty four-wheel partner.

Lapalala Wilderness School opens new school building

2023-01-23

The Lapalala Wilderness School, founded by Clive Walker and Dale Parker more than 30 years ago, officially opened the doors to its new school building recently. The innovative eco-built campus has been funded by the Parker family and the Mapula Trust, under the guidance and direction of Duncan Parker, son of Dale Parker, with the assistance of Gianni Ravazzotti and the Italtile Foundation.

Go, hamba, gaan… Tsamaya!

The Karoo is not normally a place one would associate with a crossover vehicle such as the Kia Seltos. It sounds more like 4×4 country. ANTON WILLEMSE SNR met up with five fellow motoring scribes for a threeday roadtrip to prove that it can, indeed, be done.

Anything but (S)Lowveld…

As this is my first feature for Adventure Afrika, the mere thought of an adventure that had to be turned into an article to take you – our readers – along for the ride was nerve wracking… to say the least! I knew that I would need to find a fine balance between “there’s too much to say” and “I’m at a loss for words”. However, as we jumped into the Kia Sportage, in Kempton Park, I felt in my gut that a lot was going to be said about this adventure. From the very first moment it was that perfect balance I was hoping for. Just like the Sportage, our adventure was a mixture of speed, enjoyment and wonder. Our Kia adventure proved that this area is anything but the (s)lowveld, as busy city slickers sometimes describe it.

Kia Seltos Review:

Kia has been experiencing a bit of a Renaissance in recent years. It has pushed out a bunch of new products while updating some of its existing nameplates, and even changed its logo. The Seltos was one of Kia’s first new models at the start of this Renaissance back in 2019. It was envisioned to be an affordable compact crossover SUV for the middle class, and it quickly became one of the brand’s most popular offerings. And with good reason!