The new Kia Sorento has touched down on South African shores, with the fourth generation of the Korean carmaker’s large family SUV boasting boldThe new Kia Sorento has touched down on South African shores, with the fourth generation of the Korean carmaker’s large family SUV boasting bold design language and a high-quality, high-tech cabin. See pricing below…
“The Sorento has been transformed into something altogether more desirable”
Said Gary Scott, CEO of Kia South Africa, “The Sorento’s evolution over the last two decades echoes that of the Kia brand as a whole. While the car was initially launched in 2002 as a utilitarian all-terrain vehicle, the fourth-generation Sorento has been transformed into something altogether more desirable, and representing the perfect balance between premium quality features and value for money.”
Sporting sharper lines, “high-tech” details, and elongated proportions, Kia says the new Sorento has a more confident and mature presence. According to the Korean company, the Sorento’s exterior styling was inspired by that of the Telluride. In addition, it is the first vehicle based on the firm’s new-generation large SUV platform, ensuring the latest version is “one of the most versatile and spacious” seven-seater SUVs on the road.
At launch, three derivatives are on offer, with the flagship, SXL model scheduled to join the range in March 2022. The EX+ variant is the sole variant available with the option of two- or all-wheel-drive configurations. As standard, EX+ trim includes, among others, an 8.0-inch touchscreen, complete with screen-mirroring functionality; dual-zone climate control; Drive Mode Select and Terrain Mode Select (AWD derivative); LED headlamps; leather trim; 18-inch alloys; and electrically adjustable front pews.
SX models upgrade to a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, 12.3-inch Supervision instrument cluster, heated steering wheel, heated and ventilated front pews, wireless smartphone charging and 19-inch alloys. Safety features include forward collision avoidance, lane following and keeping assist, blindspot monitoring and a surround-view camera system.
In addition to the abovementioned items, the SXL gains, among others, a 12-speaker Bose surround-sound system; dual-LED headlamps, complete with high and low beam functionality; and LED rear combination lamps. A head-up display, panoramic sunroof and smart cruise control are included in the SXL.
All models are powered by Kia’s new ‘Smartstream’ four-cylinder diesel engine. Coupled to an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, the 2.2-litre motor produces 148 kW and 440 Nm of torque, the latter available from a lowly 1 750 r/min to 2 750 r/min. According to the firm, the unit is 38.2 kg lighter than the engine found in the previous model.
As standard, all models ship with Kia SA’s five-year/unlimited km warranty and comprehensive six-year/90 000 km maintenance plan.
Kia Sorento pricing:
Sorento 2.2 CRDi EX+ 2WD 8DCT: R809 995
Sorento 2.2 CRDi EX+ AWD 8DCT: R849,995
Sorento 2.2 CRDi SX AWD 8DCT: R914 995
Sorento 2.2 CRDi SXL AWD 8DCT: R988 995
