2014 Kia Sorento
When Kia revealed the new Sorento at the Los Angeles Auto Show, folks expecting a facelifted version were pleasantly surprised. Only three years into the product cycle, Kia almost completely revamped its popular CUV. About 80% of the vehicle is new, and it even sits on a new chassis.
As the economy recovers and auto sales return, the small to mid-sized utility vehicle market is heating up again. With many other CUVs and SUVs getting makeovers, Kia must have felt the need to expedite Sorento's improvements. The Sorento and Optima are two of the best sellers for Kia afterall, and they should keep up with the competition.
The first noticeable change for the Sorento is its looks. Its broader stance and cleaner exterior design make the new Sorento more substantial. The redesigned interior dash feels more ergonomic than the previous generation as well.
The second is its engine choices. Two all-aluminum GDI engines are available, one in 2.4L 191HP GDI I4 version and another in 3.3L 290HP GDI V6 version. Both are paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and Electric Motor Driven Power Steering system.
The third is Kia's first use of blind spot detection system that uses advanced sonar sensors. Kia and its parent Hyundai have not been too quick in deploying the more advanced safety features (including collision warning), but with the new Sorento, the company seems to be sending a clear signal that they will equip more future vehicles with these technologies.
Despite the changes and industry's trend of downsizing SUVs, the Sorento still offers third-row seats. With the available third-row seating, Kia executed smartly, so that they fold down completely, making the cargo space more appealing and functional when the seats are down. They also get their own cup holders. Even though getting to the third row can be a challenge, it is useful for occasional out-of-towners and avoiding rental car expenses.
As expected from Kia, the new Sorento is full of features and options, including programmable power liftgate, a panoramic sunroof with a power-operated shade, next generation infotainment system (UVO), 2nd row sliding sunshades, dual ventilated air-cooled front seats, a 115-volt power inverter, and illuminated door handle pockets.
Kia also decided to offer the SX Limited trim, which tests the boundaries of luxury vehicles, with Nappa leather trimmed seats, a wood-trimmed, heated steering wheel, heated rear seats and more.
Kia did not disappoint with the new Sorento, and it continues to be an appealing vehicle for small but active families.
When Kia revealed the new Sorento at the Los Angeles Auto Show, folks expecting a facelifted version were pleasantly surprised. Only three years into the product cycle, Kia almost completely revamped its popular CUV. About 80% of the vehicle is new, and it even sits on a new chassis.
As the economy recovers and auto sales return, the small to mid-sized utility vehicle market is heating up again. With many other CUVs and SUVs getting makeovers, Kia must have felt the need to expedite Sorento's improvements. The Sorento and Optima are two of the best sellers for Kia afterall, and they should keep up with the competition.
The first noticeable change for the Sorento is its looks. Its broader stance and cleaner exterior design make the new Sorento more substantial. The redesigned interior dash feels more ergonomic than the previous generation as well.
The second is its engine choices. Two all-aluminum GDI engines are available, one in 2.4L 191HP GDI I4 version and another in 3.3L 290HP GDI V6 version. Both are paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and Electric Motor Driven Power Steering system.
The third is Kia's first use of blind spot detection system that uses advanced sonar sensors. Kia and its parent Hyundai have not been too quick in deploying the more advanced safety features (including collision warning), but with the new Sorento, the company seems to be sending a clear signal that they will equip more future vehicles with these technologies.
Despite the changes and industry's trend of downsizing SUVs, the Sorento still offers third-row seats. With the available third-row seating, Kia executed smartly, so that they fold down completely, making the cargo space more appealing and functional when the seats are down. They also get their own cup holders. Even though getting to the third row can be a challenge, it is useful for occasional out-of-towners and avoiding rental car expenses.
As expected from Kia, the new Sorento is full of features and options, including programmable power liftgate, a panoramic sunroof with a power-operated shade, next generation infotainment system (UVO), 2nd row sliding sunshades, dual ventilated air-cooled front seats, a 115-volt power inverter, and illuminated door handle pockets.
Kia also decided to offer the SX Limited trim, which tests the boundaries of luxury vehicles, with Nappa leather trimmed seats, a wood-trimmed, heated steering wheel, heated rear seats and more.
Kia did not disappoint with the new Sorento, and it continues to be an appealing vehicle for small but active families.
