KIA Sorento: The New Generation Of The Korean SUV
The KIA Sorento has been the flagship of the South Korean manufacturer’s SUV range since the launch of its first generation in 2002. The new version of this vehicle incorporates improvements in terms of comfort and storage space, so it is a great option for long trips and family trips.
Compared to the KIA Sportage, the Sorento is 34 centimeters larger, with a length of 4.78 meters, a width of 1.89 and a height of 1.69 meters. This means a larger cabin, and also brings with it a higher level of luxury and power.
It also competes with other SUVs like the Nissan X-Trail, Mitsubishi Outlander and Range Rover Sport. Compared to these models, the Sorento is a more powerful, larger and cheaper option. Therefore, it is a highly competitive option in the market.
Shortage in the range of engines of the new Sorento
It should be noted that the Korean SUV is only available with a 2.2-liter 200 hp diesel engine, with the same design as the Hyundai Grand Santa Fe. However, it is likely to be more than enough, because with its size and weight it is precise of an engine that is not very sensitive to driving, so a diesel engine seems the right choice.
It is a motorization with a very elastic behavior, as it reaches its maximum power peak at 3,800 rpm and a maximum torque of 441 Nm between 1,250 and 1,750 rpm. Its response is pleasant at low revs and it delivers its power quite dynamically.
The gearbox is an eight-speed automatic, with very staggered ratios. In its highest gear it can reach 203 km / h top speed.
On the other hand, it must be taken into account that consumption is slightly high, with 8 l / 100 km on the motorway and 10 l / 100 km in the city. Also, the sound at idle is somewhat unpleasant and louder than one might wish for.
An improved design in its third generation
The exterior of the Sorento combines robustness and modernity
The development of the aesthetics of the Sorento has been carried out by some designers from Audi, which has influenced its exterior appearance. In this way, the KIA SUV evolves towards an even more modern and attractive design.
In this sense, the new generation of the Sorento represents a radical change compared to its previous version, as it is even more suggestive and interesting. For its part, the tiger-nose grill is already a characteristic sign of the South Korean brand, and it shows the logo of the house in the foreground.
The aesthetics of the front part is strong and shows solid and robust forms, which gives it an image of power at first glance. On the other hand, the inclination of the windshield adds a sporty character.
In profile, the shape of the roof slopes gently down to a good-sized spoiler positioned over the rear window. It is a striking aesthetic detail that is also useful in terms of aerodynamics.
Finally, the tailgate has simple shapes and is located between the LED lights. All of this is built on wheels with 17-inch alloy wheels.
The interior is comfortable and complete
The interior of the new Sorento provides full equipment and a high level of space and comfort, which are the most striking features of the model. Or, in any case, what it was designed for.
The driver has an electrically adjustable seat with comfortable lumbar support. The steering wheel and gearshift knob are lined in foot, which brings touches of elegance to the interior.
Among the other additions and amenities, passengers can enjoy a sunroof, a 7-inch screen navigator and dual-zone climate control. All this gives the feeling of being in a very complete car with very careful details.
In driving, the position can be somewhat elevated, although it does not reach the level of SUVs such as Jeep or Land Rover. In addition, this position provides good visibility to the front and to the sides. Of course, the rear view is somewhat limited due to the great length of the car.
The second row of seats has three well-used seats and more than enough space. The mechanisms of the transmission system do not invade the rear of the vehicle, so they do not interfere with the comfort of the passengers.
Finally, it is worth highlighting the possibility of carrying 7 occupants, and that is that the rear part has two independent seats; These can be folded to increase the boot space, which starts at 605 liters. The disadvantage of these last two seats is the usual one: their size is only suitable for children or small adults.
Great competitiveness in quality-price
This SUV developed by KIA is a very interesting option in terms of value for money, with complete equipment. However, its large dimensions mean a weight of more than 1,800 kilos, which implies a moderately high consumption.
As for the trim levels, it is available with three different finishes: Concept, Drive and Emotion . The price of these variants reaches almost 30,000 euros for the cheapest option, up to 38,000 euros for the most expensive.
