Next-generation Kia Sorento grows in size outside and inside on new platform. Interior goes upmarket-ey with new powertrains introduced.
Kia Motors Corporation has released details of its upcoming all-new seven-seater, prior to its world debut at the 2020 Geneva Motor Show. The all-new 2020 Kia Sorento will be built on Kia’s new platform when production starts later this year. Details are scarce, but Kia says that the platform will have a smaller engine bay while maximising on passenger space with shorter overhangs.
With that said, the overall length of the all-new Sorento is lengthened by 10 millimetres, while the wheelbase will be 35 mm longer (2,815 mm). Kia says that the Sorento will have much more room than any other mid-size SUV with class-leading boot space.
Kia says that the new ‘Smartstream’ turbo hybrid powertrain will comprise a 1.6-litre T-GDi engine with a 44.2 kW electric motor and 1.49 kWh lithium-ion polymer battery pack. Kia says that the powertrain’s total output will stand at 227 bhp and 350 Nm of torque.
Additional powertrains will be announced in the near future including petrol engines and a powerful new plug-in hybrid variant.
The Korean and European markets will be able to opt for the new four-cylinder 2.2-litre ‘Smartstream’ diesel engine which will make 199 bhp and 440 Nm of torque. The oil burner will be paired with Kia’s new 8-speed wet double-clutch transmission.
While Kia’s home country and North American will be getting a 2.5-litre T-GDi ‘Smartstream’ engine which makes 277 bhp and 421 Nm of torque. Likewise, the new petrol engine will get the new 8-speed DCT as well.
Besides its hardware, the exterior of the all-new Sorento will feature the new interpretation of the ‘Tiger Nose’ grille which visually adds width to the new seven-seater. Moreover, the new LED headlamps with daytime running will likely to be standard features.
The all-new Sorento’s proportions extend the length of the bonnet, drawing the A-pillar 30 mm further back from the front axle for a more ‘cab-rearward’ design.
Inside, the all-new Kia Sorento will be upscaled with new premium-grade materials on a layout that blends metallic trims, leather upholstery and embossed wood-effect surfaces.
Keeping relevant to the times, the all-new Sorento will come fitted with a 10.25 touchscreen infotainment system, which incorporates audio-visual navigation. While the driver will get to see the new 12.3-inch high-resolution display instrument cluster.
The all-new Kia Sorento will make its debut on March 3, 2020. Kia’s release had no mentions of which market it will be introduced in first or when it will come to Southeast Asia, as well as prices and specs.
