Overall, the new car is a little longer, lower and wider than before and also has a lower roofline plus a higher belt-line than its predecessor, all designed to give it a more muscular look.
The new Sorento’s interior is mainly the work of Kia’s Frankfurt-based European design team.
Particular attention has been paid to the use of better, often soft-touch, materials and achieving what the company calls a “modern and wide” theme.
Despite the lower roof-line, the Sorento will be a bit roomier than its predecessor, thanks in part to a slightly longer wheelbase, and luggage space is expanded as well.
Refinement is improved, thanks to a more rigid body, extra sound-proofing and various under-bonnet changes, especially on the diesels.
Since the new Sorento will be sold around the world, a total of five different engines will be offered according to local conditions, although only two will make it to Europe – a 2.2-litre diesel and a 2.4-litre direct injection petrol power unit.
The suspension will be similar to the that of the out-going car but with several tweaks and improvements.
