A NEW platform and power trains, and a fresh new look, will feature on the next generation Kia Sorento, set to be launched at the 2020 Geneva International Motor Show on March 3.
The 2021 Sorento will will be the first SUV to feature a compact engine bay structure, shorter overhangs and a longer wheelbase. The platform enables the car’s stylish new design and on-road posture, as well as its comfortable ride and satisfying handling traits.
The overall length of new Sorento has been extended by 10 mm over its predecessor, while the wheelbase is up 35 mm to 2815 mm. The cabin now provides more room than many other large SUVs, and it will also offer class leading cargo space.
Kia’s new SUV platform for the Sorento represents an important leap forward from its original body-on-frame chassis, and subsequent monocoque and allows for new standards in space, practicality, efficiency and quality.
For Korea, Europe and North America, the structure and layout of the platform accommodates the Sorento’s potent new Smartstream turbo hybrid power train, the first application of electrified power in the Sorento line-up.
The new power plant comprises a 1.6-litre T-GDi (turbocharged petrol direct injection) engine and a 44.2kW electric motor and 1.49kWh lithium-ion polymer battery pack, with the combination producing 169kW power and 350Nm torque.
It provides low emissions, high levels of performance, and no loss of cabin or luggage space, thanks to the battery pack being located beneath the passenger cell. Additional options including petrol and a powerful plug-in hybrid variant will be added soon.
Korean and European customers can also specify the Sorento’s new four cylinder 2.2-litre Smartstream diesel engine, producing 149kW and 440Nm torque. This is paired with Kia’s new 8 speed wet double clutch transmission (8DCT).
A powerful Smartstream 2.5-litre T-GDi engine will also be available from launch in Korea and North America, developing 207kW of power and 421Nm torque. Matched with the new 8DCT, it combines direct injection and multi-point injection technology.
In addition to its new platform and power trains, the new Sorento implements a range of high-tech safety and convenience features, differentiating it further from other larger SUVs. These include Kia’s first multi-collision brake system.
It enables the Sorento to mitigate the severity of secondary collisions. It automatically applies vehicle brakes when the airbags have been deployed after an initial collision, further protecting occupants from secondary frontal or side impacts.
The multi-collision brake system will be available, depending on market, with a total of eight airbags to further enhance collision safety, including front seat centre, side airbags and knee airbags.
Depending on market, the Sorento is also available with a remote smartphone surround view monitor. This allows users to check the vehicle’s surroundings with their smartphone in conjunction with the in-vehicle surround view monitor.
Designed and engineered to take on everything life can throw at it, the new Sorento will make its debut on March 3 at the 2020 Geneva International Motor Show.
