KIA Sorento: prices and specifications

Kia Sorento

Kia Sorento is a mid-size SUV, originally developed for the North American market, which later evolved into a crossover. The model got its name from the Italian city of Sorrento.

Development of the car began in 2000 when Kia decided to expand its SUV lineup. The basis was the first-generation body-on-frame Sportage. Engineers increased the wheelbase and dimensions, and also created an original design. A prototype appeared in 2001, and after a year of testing, the SUV debuted at the Detroit Auto Show. The model proved popular not only in the US but also in Europe. The success of the Kia Sorento was attributed to its excellent off-road capabilities and lower price compared to American, European, and Japanese counterparts. In 2007, the car underwent a facelift, receiving an updated appearance, new engines, and transmissions. In 2009, another facelift was carried out, mainly affecting the front end.

For the second generation (2009), the Kia Sorento changed dramatically, becoming a mid-size crossover with a unibody construction. This model was also the first Kia produced at the company's own plant in the US. In addition to technical innovations — engines, transmissions, and a plug-in all-wheel drive system — the car received a modern corporate design by Peter Schreyer. In 2012, the model underwent a facelift that changed the front end (American and European versions differed in bumpers).

In Ukraine, the updated Kia Sorento went on sale in December 2012. The car is offered in five- and seven-seat configurations. The crossover is equipped with a 2.4-liter gasoline engine or a 2.2-liter diesel engine. The engines are paired with a six-speed automatic or manual transmission. Drive is all-wheel drive.