Kia Sorento (2024 Preview)
Written by Justin Delaney, an Independent Reviewer, Journalist, and Motor expert.
Big news just in to the DoneDeal HQ as Kia Ireland have announced details of the much anticipated 7-seat Sorento SUV. Diesel models are expecting to be with us this coming April, whilst those looking for the PHEV model will have to wait until July for the 242-registration period. As you can see from the images the new Sorento features a stylish design refresh including new technology, colours and sustainable materials. At the front, a new bonnet design gives it a rugged SUV look the Kia logo now moved to the top of the bonnet. Stylish vertical headlamps and star map DRLs emphasise a progressive and high-tech design, as does a new radiator grille design with a 3D mesh pattern. Together, the vertical headlamps and taillamps create a modern visual that works when the vehicle is on approach or from the rear. The redesigned front lower bumper looks aggressive with a wide skid plate, redesigned fog lamps, and a vertical air intake finishing the nose off nicely. The rear of the vehicle also features a refreshed taillight design with diagonal LEDs, while the updated rear bumper and exhaust tips give it a more brutish look.
Features
Opening the door will reveal a high-tech and modern cabin with a minimal strip of interior mood lighting to create a sense of space. This redesigned model features a clever multi-mode touchscreen panel, as seen on the Sportage and EV6 interior, giving quick access to climate and multimedia controls. Comfort is set to be plentiful also with power adjustable, heated & ventilated front row seats, as well as heated second row seats for maximum occupant comfort. This comfortable interior also reflects the sustainability credentials of the Kia brand by featuring artificial leather and recycled plastic cabin materials. A crystal clear 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen along with a 12.3-inch digital driver instrument cluster sit proudly on the dash. The infotainment system has been designed so that Kia can send software and map updates to the car over-the-air which removes the need to make a special visit to a dealership. Buyers can also expect wireless phone charging, multiple USB-C charging ports throughout the cabin and fingerprint recognition which allows the driver to link the user profile and individual driver set up preferences. A unique Digital Key that allows owners to unlock and start the vehicle with only a smartphone or smartwatch is also included. Drivers can remotely share the Digital Key with other drivers for convenient and easy access. Using Kia Connect telematics, drivers can plan a route with real-time traffic alerts, find a filling or charging station or even check live weather on the move!
Power
So whats in under the bonnet of the new Kia Sorento? Well, Kia will offer two drivetrains in Ireland, a 2.2 diesel engine coupled with an eight-speed dual clutch transmission or the petrol plug-in hybrid which, comes with a 1.6 T-GDI engine and a 13.8 kWh battery paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. The plug-in hybrid also gets four wheel drive as standard.
Safety
Like all new Kia’s currently for sale in Ireland you get a suite of Advanced Driving Assistance Safety with features like Highway Drive Assist 2.0, lane change assist and Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist. It is also available available with Navigation-based Smart Cruise Control, Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Keep Assist and is fitted with up to seven airbags including the front centre airbag which provides additional head protection for front-seat occupants and is designed to prevent their heads coming into contact during a collision. As always, safety is paramount to Kia.
Costs
The new Sorento will go on sale in Ireland from April 2024, with pricing and specification to be announced early in the new year. As with all Kia models, the new Sorento comes with Kia’s seven-year, 150,000-kilometre warranty as standard.
Summary
These are exciting times for Kia with a fully electric offering in the shape of the 6 or 7 seater EV9 or perhaps this revised Sorento. Although its only a facelift the new bonnet, upright grille, and fresh headlights somehow differentiate it from the 2023 model but keep it modern and in line what the brand are doing across the range. Like the outgoing model we expect it to be great to drive, super comfortable and very easy to live with. To watch our old video review of the outgoing model please click here or indeed to read our full test review please click here. Now all we have to do is wait until April next year for a first drive of the 2024 model!
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