Sorento became the first Kia model based on a completely new platform. The car's length increased by 10 mm compared to the previous crossover, while the wheelbase grew by 35 mm to 2815 millimeters. At the same time, the vehicle's weight decreased by 80 kilograms.
In addition, for the first time in its history, the Sorento received a hybrid powertrain. The scheme called Smartstream includes a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine and a 60-horsepower electric motor powered by a 1.49 kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery pack. The total output of the units is 230 hp and 350 newton-meters. In the future, the model will also have another modification with the ability to recharge batteries from a household electrical network.
Furthermore, at the start of sales, the crossover will have a version with a 2.2-liter diesel engine developing 200 hp and 440 newton-meters. In addition, in some markets, such as the USA, the Sorento will be offered with a 2.5-liter turbocharged gasoline engine developing 281 horsepower and 420 N·m of torque.
The list of available equipment includes a fully digital instrument panel, frontal collision prevention function, surround view system and blind spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, as well as a lane keeping assist function. In addition, a remote parking control system is available, allowing the driver to exit the car and park the vehicle in a confined space.
