After teaser pictures and some basic information, Kia has finally given full details of the new version of its large SUV, the Sorento, which will go on sale in the third quarter of 2020.
The SUV will be based on a brand-new platform that will underpin a number of future Hyundai and Kia SUVs. As a result, it will be larger than before to maximise luggage space (812-910 litres) and give its up to seven passengers even more room.
At 1,900mm wide, it’s 10mm wider than the outgoing model. It’s also 10mm longer, at 4,810mm, and 10mm higher. This lets it accommodate seven seats, although a five-seat version is also available.
In terms of equipment, there will be a choice wheels from 17in to 20in, although it’s not yet certain if all of those will be available in the UK.
Inside, drivers can enjoy a 12.3in digital instrument cluster and an infotainment with a 10.25in touch screen, as well as Bose surround sound audio with 12 speakers.
European customers will be able to have the seats trimmed in black cloth, or a choice of leather designs.
In addition, it features a raft of new advanced safety features, such as forward collision-avoidance assist with pedestrian, cyclist and vehicle detection; blind spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control with stop and go and surround view parking cameras.
At launch, the Sorento will be available with either a 2.2-litre diesel or a 1.6-litre petrol hybrid. More powertrains, including a plug-in hybrid, will be added to the range later.
The diesel has 202hp and uses a newly-developed eight-speed dual-clutch gearbox. The hybrid combines a 1.6-litre petrol with a six-speed dual-clutch gearbox and a 1.5kWh battery for a combined total output of 230hp. It has the same boot space as the diesel, as the battery is mounted underneath the passenger cell.
