The Sorento has been Kia's best-selling vehicle in Canada for quite some time. Since 2016, it has established itself not only within the company, but also throughout the industry. Solidity, refinement, driving pleasure, interior volume, it has impressed in every way.
And Kia is getting ready to build on it, because a new generation is about to arrive. On paper, it promises to be a huge step forward that will take the model to another level. Let's see how it evolves compared to the outgoing version.
Better fuel economy
The Sorento 2021 will be more fuel-efficient than the old one. This goal will be achieved with the arrival of two new engines to replace those we already know. For the first two versions (LX+ and LX Premium), a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder mill will be under the hood. The latter will deliver 191 horsepower and 182 lb-ft of torque, but more importantly, average fuel economy of 9.7 L/100 km, which represents a 4.9 percent improvement over the block it replaces.
Then, ahead of the other variants of the family (X-Line, EX, EX+ and SX), a 2.5-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder engine will be at work with a capacity of 281 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. The latter allows for significant gains at the pump, 10.5 percent with an announced average of 9.9 liters per 100 kilometers. Remember that the most powerful models were powered by a competent, yet slightly more fuel-efficient 3.3-litre V6.
X-Line
The most observant will have noticed that a new version is introduced in the range this year, the X-Line. This one emphasizes the sporty look, an approach that is sure to seduce a part of the clientele. In addition, it will offer a higher ground clearance, but also distinctive styling features. Inside, a configuration with captain seats in the second row adds a touch of class to the interior.
Structure
All this will be mounted on a new platform. Indeed, this new generation wants to be transformed from A to Z, because even the current foundations of the model have been left aside. The new chassis will offer a host of advantages, including greater lightness and rigidity. It will also offer a 35-mm longer wheelbase, good news for occupants in rows two and three, which will add space (14 mm and 93 mm, respectively).
Most importantly, the new structure will be able to accommodate hybrid powertrains, an important strategy with the new Sorento. Thus, in the summer of 2021, a hybrid version will be offered, as well as a plug-in hybrid variant. Both will offer four-wheel drive. Each Sorento will be equipped with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
Other Changes
We will be learning more in the coming weeks and months about other changes that will benefit the model, particularly in the cabin. Here, we are already promised a host of updated technologies, better materials and a greatly modernized look.
And, of course, there are those aesthetic changes that can be seen by looking at the model. It borrows the style reserved for the Telluride.
The 2021 Sorento is coming; all you have to do is come and see it.
