Kia Sorento 2020: we drive the new 7-seat SUV with diesel and hybrid engines

With more than 37,000 units sold since its launch in Spain in 2002, 300,000 in Europe and 3,000,000 worldwide, the latest generation of the Kia Sorento takes a qualitative leap forward compared with previous editions. It grows slightly in size (10 mm in length, width and height) and slightly reduces its overhangs to improve interior space, which features three rows of seats and, thanks to the 35 mm increase in wheelbase, improves its capacity for seven passengers.

It debuts the new-generation platform for SUV models, which is stronger and lighter and allows the adaptation of “Smartstream” combustion, hybrid and plug-in hybrid engines, the three technologies with which the new edition is offered. Although the plug-in hybrid version will not arrive until early 2021, it promises impressive figures of power (265 CV), emissions (37 g/km) and electric range (68 km).

More elegant and robust design

Alongside the Stonic, Seltos, Sportage and Telluride models, the Kia SUV range is one of the most extensive in the global automotive market. The new Sorento edition keeps the essence of previous editions, but enhances its design with sharper lines and a more modern look.

The front evolves with the distinctive, narrower “tiger nose” grille, with the lighting units integrated into its ends. The design is complemented by a very striking lower air intake, with the fog lights housed in the lower grille.

At the rear, the design is completely different from previous generations, with vertical, independent light units and much straighter shapes. It features a rear wiper hidden in a rear spoiler and, as has become customary recently, the model name is printed in large letters across the tailgate. It is offered in 10 body colours and new 18, 19 and 20-inch alloy wheels.

The interior also evolves, not only in appearance but also in content, ergonomics and functionality. It is very spacious and versatile, as the three rows of seats are comfortable, roomy and easy to access. The new platform has allowed legroom for the second-row passengers to be improved by more than 90 mm and headroom for third-row passengers by 14 mm. Although these seats are intended for occasional use, access to them is not difficult when the backrest folds and the second-row seat slides forward.

The battery of the Sorento Hybrid sits under the cabin floor and allows a boot capacity of up to 821 litres with five seats in use. With all seven seats in use, capacity is reduced to 187 litres. If you want to fold down the second-row backrests, you only need to press a button in the boot to increase load capacity. For maximum load volume, folding down the second-row backrests can provide more than 2,000 litres of capacity.

Technology and functionality

The driving position has clearly evolved: the main information is displayed on two digital screens located at the top of the dashboard. One, 12.3 inches, shows dynamic vehicle information and the different driving modes, and the other, a 10.25-inch central touchscreen, focuses on entertainment and navigation.

The main functions can be managed from a few buttons without having to go through cumbersome on-screen menus. Good appearance and material quality in the interior, numerous storage spaces spread throughout the cabin, USB chargers and a high-power, high-quality surround sound system.

The Sorento is electrified for the first time with the “Smartstream” system, which combines a 1.6-litre T-GDi turbo engine (gasoline direct injection and variable valve timing) with a 1.49 kWh lithium-ion battery and a 44.2 kW electric motor. It delivers 230 CV of power and 350 Nm of torque. It is paired with a six-speed automatic gearbox, allowing the power of the combustion and electric motors to be transferred in parallel for improved response.

The 2.2-litre four-cylinder “Smartstream” diesel engine is also offered, promising 202 CV and 440 Nm of torque. It features a new aluminium block that is 19.5 kg lighter than its predecessor’s and 38.2 kg lighter than the previous generation’s. It introduces the 8DCT gearbox, an eight-speed dual-clutch unit that is quick and smooth in gear changes.

All versions are available in front-wheel or all-wheel drive configuration, except the plug-in hybrid variant, which is offered exclusively with four-wheel drive.

Very complete equipment

It features systems providing very high levels of active and passive safety, as well as new driver assistance elements. In addition to seven airbags, depending on the equipment level, it can include a head-up display, a braking assistance system with pedestrian, cyclist and vehicle detection and cross-traffic control for junction turns, blind-spot monitor, 360º camera, blind-spot detection system, speed limit recognition, cruise control with Stop&Go function, lane assist working up to 180 km/h, driver fatigue detection system, multi-collision braking and automatic high/low beam adjustment.

It also offers a rear view camera with rear traffic alert and debuts a new remote parking system with key, capable of parking the car out of a perpendicular space via remote control. As in other models of the brand, it also offers the UVO Connect telematics system, which provides drivers with real-time traffic information, weather forecasts, available parking spaces, or the ability to set a destination in advance, through the car’s touchscreen and on their smartphone.

Kia Sorento 2020: easy to drive

Despite its large dimensions, the greater body rigidity and the new tuning of the independent suspension allow for quite agile dynamic behaviour. It is true that some inertia can be felt in sections of linked bends, as the total weight of the vehicle is around 1,800 kg in all its variants, but the firmness of the dampers keeps body movement well under control.

The brakes perform their job correctly, but have to work harder when used intensively and, although they do not fade, they show a slightly spongy pedal feel after steep descents.

Although it is not a conventional off-roader, the new Terrain Mode system, together with the all-wheel-drive system, provides better capability on mud, snow or sand by controlling the electronic stability control, gearshift transitions and torque distribution to the wheels.

Range and prices of the Kia Sorento

Technical specifications of this car

Off-RoadKIA Sorento13 versions · from 53,645 €