The 3rd generation Kia Sorento presents itself with a new design and more technology. Longer and wider bodywork benefits habitability .
The 3rd generation of the Kia Sorento competes for this edition of the Essilor Car of the Year/Trophy Crystal Steering Wheel 2016 with its 2.2 CRDi TX 7 Lug 2WD version, one of the units that make up the SUV range of the Korean brand.
This model offers three engines, with powers ranging from 185 to 200 hp. The range comprises the 2.4 gasoline with direct injection (GDI) and the two turbodiesel versions (2.0 and 2.2), which should represent the main share of sales in Europe. The 2.2 engine delivers 200 hp and announces consumption averages of 5.7 l/100 km and he will be responsible for moving the Kia Sorento, which in this new incarnation presents a set of important novelties.
Comfort and technological sophistication were two central concerns in the development of this model, which has a body with greater dimensions in length and width, allowing better explore habitability and offer more space for passengers and the luggage compartment. The Sorento maintains its 5 or 7-seater configuration and new storage spaces and modularity solutions have been created inside.
In terms of comfort and driving dynamics, Kia guarantees the highest level of refinement: “To meet the growing expectations of the consumer, Kia engineers have worked towards improve every aspect of the new Sorento's driving experience by updating engine, steering and suspension technologies.”
During the development phase of the new Sorento, Kia engineers focused on strengthening the body structure and improving noise, vibration and harshness characteristics, “thus increasing refinement and creating a more relaxed travel environment”.
The new Sorento debuts several on-board technologies, including the Around-View Monitor, which, with its four cameras, helps the driver in parking maneuvers (by showing an overview from a high position on the dashboard screen) and the Smart Power Tailgate. This system opens the tailgate automatically when the key is detected in your vicinity, allowing you to store shopping bags or luggage in the vehicle with greater convenience.
Passive and active safety has also been technologically updated and so Sorento is now integrating systems such as ASCC (Intelligent Adaptive Speed Control); the LDWS (Lane Departure Warning System); the BSD (Blind Spot Detection System); the RCTA ( rear traffic alert system), which warns the driver of the presence of other vehicles behind the Sorento in car parks ; and SLIF (Speed Limit Information Function), which displays the speed limit on the instrument panel based on a system of cameras that detect road signs.
The new Sorento also competes for the Crossover of the Year class where it will have the following competitors: Audi Q7, FIAT 500X, Hyundai Santa Fe, Honda HR-V, Mazda CX-3 and Volvo XC90.
Text: Essilor Car of the Year Award / Crystal Steering Wheel Trophy
Images: Diogo Teixeira / Ledger Automobile