Kia unveiled a facelifted version of its Sorento CUV – that means crossover – as the new modelyear, featuring a revised front-end design which makes it look a bit like the Lexus RX. The car also benefits from enhanced specification for the LX, EX and SX trim levels, and new options as well, including a Microsoft voice-activated infotainment system.
On the styling front, the new Sorento comes with Kia’s signature grille and those fog lamps integrated into the air intakes. It also has a wider mouth, which isn’t particularly pretty. The car features 17-inch alloy wheels with 235/65R17 tires, but 18-inch five-spoke hyper finish wheel outfitted with 235/60R18 tires are also available for higher trim levels.You also get chromed exhaust tip, LED tail lights, and a roof spoiler.
Inside the cabin, depending on the trim you get either fabric or leather upholstery, and along list of standard equipments including air conditioning, a tilt and telescopic steering wheel with integrated audio controls, automatic up and down driver’s window function, illuminated vanity mirror, EcoMinder™ Indicator to assist with fuel-efficient driving habits and three-row seating (LX V6).
Progressing to the EX trim provides even more well-appointed standard features, including newly added leather seating, dual automatic temperature control and rear air conditioning (V6 models only). SX trims add touches of sophistication with an automatic dimming rear view mirror with Homelink®, memory driver’s seat, four-way power passenger seat and ventilated/cooled/heated front seats (optional on EX), leather seat trim for the first and second rows, stainless steel pedals and a stainless steel sill plate with illuminated scuff trim.
As for the engines, options include a 2.4-liter GDI four-cylinder with 191 horsepower and 181 pound-feet of torque capable of 32 mpg/highway; a 3.5-liter V6 with 276 horsepower and 248 pound-feet of torque; and a 2.4-liter Multi-Port Injected (MPI) four-cylinder engine producing 175 horsepower and 169 pound-feet of torque. The only choice for transmission is a six-speed automatic. And you have to ask for AWD if you want it, otherwide you only get front-wheel-drive.
