While Kia Motors’ 4th Gen Sorento is already on sale in several countries, we are still waiting for the next-generation Sorento’s reveal for the North American market, and today and thanks to our follower Gor Mirzakhanyan we can share with you US-spec Sorento prototype caught testing in Yosemite Valley.
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The latest Sorento will be the first SUV to be based on Hyundai Motor Group’s new platform. With a compact engine bay structure, shorter overhangs and a longer wheelbase, the platform enables the car’s stylish new design and on-road posture, as well as its comfortable ride and satisfying handling traits.
The overall length of new Sorento has been extended by 10 mm than its predecessor, while the wheelbase is up 35 mm to 2,815 mm. The cabin now provides more room than in many other midsize SUVs, while intelligent packaging means the new Sorento will also offer class-leading cargo space.
When the first-generation Sorento was launched in 2002, it was underpinned by a robust body-on-frame chassis, maximizing space and all-road ability. The shift to a monocoque structure for the second-generation Sorento in 2009 marked a step change in the car’s on-road character and behavior. Kia’s new midsize SUV platform represents a similarly important leap forward for the next-generation Sorento, allowing the car to set new standards in its segment for space, practicality, efficiency and quality.
Still not sure if Sorento will have the same technology in US than the one back in South Korea
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For North America, the structure and layout of the platform accommodates the new Sorento’s potent new ‘Smartstream’ turbo hybrid powertrain. Representing the first application of electrified power in the Sorento line-up, the new powertrain comprises a 1.6-liter T-GDi (turbocharged gasoline direct injection) engine, 44.2 kW electric motor and 1.49 kWh lithium-ion polymer battery pack.
The engine and motor produce a combined total output of 230 ps power and 350 Nm torque, providing low emissions with high levels of performance from the new electrified powertrain. The intelligent packaging of the new platform means the battery pack can be located beneath the passenger cell, with no impact on cabin or luggage space.
A powerful ‘Smartstream’ 2.5-liter T-GDi engine will also be available from launch in North America, developing 281 ps and 421 Nm torque. Matched with the new 8DCT, the 2.5-liter turbo engine combines direct injection and multi-point injection technology, enabling it to subtly adapt its combustion cycle at different engine speeds to enhance performance and efficiency in everyday use.
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In addition to its new platform and powertrains, the new Sorento implements a range of high-tech safety and convenience features, differentiating it further from other midsize SUVs.
Kia’s first Multi-collision Brake system enables the Sorento to mitigate the severity of secondary collisions. It automatically applies vehicle brakes when the airbags have been deployed after an initial collision, further protecting occupants from secondary frontal or side impacts. The Multi-collision Brake system will be available depending on market with a total of eight airbags to further enhance collision safety, including front seat center side airbags and knee airbags.
Depending on market, the Sorento is also available with a remote smartphone Surround View Monitor. This allows users to check the vehicle’s surroundings with their smartphone in conjunction with the in-vehicle Surround View Monitor to maximize parking convenience.
Will Kia offer in the U.S the same tech offered in South Korea or Europe, or will happen the same as K5, with the lack of digital cluster or shift-by-wire technologies?
Info: Kia
