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All-new KIA Sorento

  • Price: From R809,995
  • Engine: 2.2-litre ‘Smartstream’ diesel engine
  • Transmission: 8-speed auto
  • Power/Torque: 148kW / 440Nm

By Tshidi Malebana

Say hello to the all-new Kia Sorento, this sits at the head of Kia’s comprehensive SUV line-up has the looks, with its stylish modern design as well as a high-quality, high-tech cabin the car stands out in class. It brings a wide range of offerings as it is available in 3 distinct trim levels, namely: EX+ available in both 2WD and AWD configurations, SX AWD and SXL AWD. You are spoilt to choose and enjoy up to 10 paint finishes, and the option of 18- or 19-inch aluminium alloy wheels depending on the trim grade.

No details have been left behind in the creation of the all-new Kia Sorento evolves with a new interpretation of Kia’s hallmark ‘tiger nose’ grille, displaying a wider shape that organically wraps around the integrated headlamps on each side. The headlamps themselves feature a new ‘tiger eyeline’ LED daytime running light, adding extra focus to the design by depicting the intense impression of the lines around a tiger’s eyes. This sharper, more assertive appearance is complemented by a wide, rectangular lower air intake, bookended by wing-shaped air curtains to channel air around the car. A sharp bumper lip is also capped with a skid plate, enhancing its robust appearance.

The newly designed Sorento is powered by a new four-cylinder, 2.2-litre ‘Smartstream’ diesel engine producing 148kW and 440 Nm of torque connected to Kia’s new 8-speed wet double-clutch transmission (8DCT). Thus, the conclusion is that there is enough power for impressive and efficient performance. Designed to offer the smooth-shifting characteristics of a conventional automatic, the 8DCT enhances fuel efficiency over a conventional eight-speed automatic, depending on the application.

Packed with the latest high-tech features, it makes your life easier depending on specification with a 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen, leading to a simpler way to connect with wireless: Apple car play and Android Auto, powerful 12-speaker BOSE surround-sound audio system. The infotainment system also allows Bluetooth smartphone pairing for two phones concurrently, enabling separate phones to be used for, for instance, phone calls and music, while front passengers can also plug in their mobile devices via two USB chargers. For second-row passengers, two USB charging sockets are integrated into the backs of the two front seats, with a third found at the rear of the front-row centre console. Both third-row passengers also have their own charging points, meaning all seven passengers can keep their mobile device charged – the perfect measure to maintain harmony in a full car during longer journeys.

The system displays alerts from the car’s numerous driver assistance technologies, details of vehicle speed, and turn-by-turn navigation instructions, not forgetting to mention the meticulously crafted details inside the Sorento brings balance by fusing functionality, technology and comfort.

Space? Up to 821L space which is fully enhanceable. This means the car can accommodate five people in comfort, and a significant amount of luggage. With all seven seats in place, boot space is also increased by 32% compared to its predecessor, to 187 litres. It is so practical and versatile there is enough legroom and headroom for passengers while incorporating a cupholder and smartphone tray. Who wouldn't like that? I definitely do. This seven-seater is a perfect family car for daily use.

With advanced driver safety systems in place, you can enjoy the trips as it helps to reduce many of the inherent hazards and stresses of driving, protecting occupants and other road users on every journey. Comes with 6 airbags, Smart Cruise Control, Around View Monitor and Blindspot Collision-Avoidance Assist

With its starting price from:

> Sorento EX+ 2WD - R809,995
> Sorento EX+ AWD - R849,995
> Sorento SX AWD - R914,995
> Sorento SXL AWD - R988,995.

All Sorento models ship as standard with Kia’s industry-leading Unlimited Kilometre, 5-year warranty (inclusive of roadside assistance), as well as a 6-year / 90,000 km maintenance plan. The latter is a comprehensive package that covers a number of components at no cost to the owner over and above a standard service plan, including (but not limited to) brake pads, discs and linings; shock absorbers, battery; clutch; cambelt; various belts; globes and fuses.

The all-new Sorento range is on sale across Kia South Africa’s national dealer network immediately, with SXL models available from March 2022.

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