Kia Sorento

The Sorento cabin is the true blend of quality and fine fit-and-finish. The dashboard layout is driver-oriented with all controls arranged ergonomically. The trip computer with a 7-inch TFT LCD supervision cluster gives a wide range display of driving parameters to the driver and the electronic chromic mirror minimizes the glare caused by traffic at the rear. The Nappa tailored black leather upholstery brings a luxurious feel to the car. Taking care of everyone’s comfort is the active head restrain with 8-way power-adjustable seats. The sliding center armrest ensures sufficient comfort to the driver as well as the co-passengers. Also, on-board is the dual-zone full auto air conditioning with cluster ionizer that offers personalized temperature zones. The air vents in 2nd- and 3rd- row offers ample cooling. On the connectivity front is a 4.3-inch TFT LCD touch screen that is compatible with Radio/CD/MP3 player. USB and AUX connectivity allows you to play your favorite songs by connecting iPod or other external devices. A 12V socket equipped in the console area enables phone charging. 

As mentioned, the SUV offers a long wheelbase of 2700 mm, which calls for generous legroom of 1049 mm at the front and 955 mm at the rear. The Kia Sorento accommodates a decent boot space of 258 litres. Fold the 3rd-row and you can increase the boot space to 1047 litres.

Being an SUV, the Sorento showcases a lengthy profile that reflects in its dimensions as well. The car measures 4684 mm in length, 1885mm in width, and 1709 mm in height. The ground clearance of 183 mm is sufficient to encounter off-road tracks. The wheelbase of the SUV reads 2700 mm, assuring enough space for passengers. 

As for its design language, the Sorento looks sporty but in a sophisticated manner. At the front, it gets a honeycomb radiator grille with a mat black finish, it enables the vehicle to transport ample air to the engine bay. LED daytime running light and fog lamps offer clear vision even in the deepest darkness. The latter comes with a static bending feature that enables one to explore the corner areas during turning. Electrically adjustable ORVM is integrated with LED repeater lamps. The door handles are finished in chrome and come with pocket lights, which enables one to locate them even in dark. The diamond-cut alloys are machine finished and adds equally to the glamour. At the rear the LED rear combination lamps that add to the car’s sporty appeal. The roof rails come in handy for adventure lovers as it enables easy transport of outdoor equipment. Further, the all-glass panoramic sunroof gives a luxurious touch to the SUV. Also, the spoilers and air diffusers at the rear add to the car’s aerodynamic factor by cutting the drag force created by the resistive flow of air.

The combination of McPherson Strut suspension at the front and multi-link suspension with gas shock absorbers at the rear provides a stable and comfortable ride throughout. On the braking front, the SUV comprises of ventilated disc type at the front and solid disc type at the rear. The ABS/EBD system offers an equal amount of braking pressure on all four wheels and prevents the locking of the wheels. Also present is the flex steer system that allows the driver to choose between three driving modes- Comfort, Normal, and Sport.

The Sorento is available in two trim options - EX and SX. The former is powered by a 2.4-litre DOHC D-CVVT 16V petrol engine that churns out a maximum power of 172 hp at 6,000 rpm and boosts a peak torque of 225 Nm at 4,000 rpm. The power is sent to the ground via a 6-speed automatic transmission. The SX variant, on the other hand, runs on a 2.2-litre TCI HLA 16V diesel mill that makes 200 PS at 3,800 rpm and 442 Nm from 1750-2750 rpm. This powerplant is turned with 8-speed automatic transmission. Kia claims the Sorento to touch 100 kmph mark in just 10.5 seconds and a top speed of 190 kmph. With a combined mileage of 11.9 kmpl, the SUV is economic enough for long runs.

Kia has packed the Sorento with a strong safety shield that comprises of several active and passive safety features. The SUV is enabled with six airbags (dual front, side, and curtain) that offers ample safety during fatal incidents. The rear parking assist system alerts the driver while parking in tight spots. The Vehicle Stability Management system avails the driver with a couple of decent stability controls that prevent the vehicle from skidding. Electronic stability control (ESC) manages the coordination between engine torque and brake, thus reducing the risk of skidding on sharp turns. Also part of the list is an Anti-lock braking system (ABS), Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD), Traction Control System (TCS), and Hill Assist Control (HAC).

The Kia Sorento SUV packs the goods of an ideal car. It has got the looks to impress, a cabin that’s super comfy and inviting, a strong safety kit, and lastly, it offers seamless performance both on and off-road.