The 2022 Kia Sorento has been launched in South Africa, offering a striking new design, high-tech cabin and enhanced off-road capability.
Sorento occupies the top-dog spot in Kia South Africa’s SUV line up which includes the Seltos, Sonet and the still brilliant and soon to be replaced Sportage.
“The Sorento’s evolution over the last two decades echoes that of the Kia brand as a whole. While the car was initially launched in 2002 as a utilitarian all-terrain vehicle, the fourth generation Sorento has been transformed into something altogether more desirable and representing the perfect balance between premium quality features and value for money,” said Gary Scott, CEO of Kia South Africa.
A mature presence comes courtesy of sharper lines and high-tech details and premium-quality materials and cutting-edge technology in the cabin ensure that occupants are happy, comfortable, and entertained.
Over three million Sorento models have been sold worldwide since it was launched in 2002, testament to the quality and dependability of the nameplate. Like the 2022 Kia Carnival which has just been launched, too, the 2022 Kia Sorento is powered by Kia’s new four-cylinder, 2,2-litre ‘Smartstream’ diesel engine which outputs 148 kW and 440 N.m, a remarkable powertrain that weighs 38,2 kg less than that of the third-generation Sorento. This motor is paired with a new eight-speed wet double-clutch transmission. A new Terrain Mode affords the 2022 Kia Sorento a higher level of capability in mud, snow and sand.
In terms of technology, the Sorento is packed to the hilt with innovative niceties such as Kia’s latest 10.25- inch touchscreen infotainment system and a new 12.3-inch high-resolution digital instrument cluster. Full integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is found across the range and there are enough USB ports for all seven passengers to charge their smartphones. An optional head-up display projects turn-by-turn navigation instructions, as well as usual driver information, too. An optional 12-speaker Bose surround-sound audio system is also available.
Depending on specification, advanced assistance systems are available in the 2022 Kia Sorento such as Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist technology with pedestrian, cyclist and vehicle detection, Blindspot View Monitor, Around View Monitor, Blindspot Collision Avoidance Assist, Smart Cruise Control, Lane Following Assist and Driver Attention Warning systems.
The entry-level EX+ Sorento is fitted with the following as standard;
- 8,0-inch touchscreen infotainment with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Automatic dual-zone climate control
- Auto lights and wipers
- Auto-folding, heated side mirrors
- Drive Mode Select and Terrain Mode Select (AWD derivative)
- Rear sunshade blinds
- Electrically adjustable front seats with lumbar support
- Electric tailgate operation
- Leather trim
- LED headlamps
- Smart Entry with push-button start
- PDC front and rear with rear-view camera
- 18-inch aluminium alloy wheels
- 6 airbags
- ESC plus Hill-start Assist Control
- Downhill Brake Control
- Trailer Stability Assist
The top-spec SXL AWD model adds lavish luxuries such as Bose surround sound with 12 speakers, Dual LED headlamps (high and low beam) and a panoramic sunroof amongst others.
The new Sorento is manufactured for South Africa in Kia’s Hwasung manufacturing facility in South Korea, and local pricing is as follows;
Sorento 2,2 CRDi 7-Seater EX+ 2WD 8DCT R809 995
Sorento 2,2 CRDi 7-Seater EX+ AWD 8DCT R849 995
Sorento 2,2 CRDi 7-Seater SX AWD 8DCT R914 995
Sorento 2,2 CRDi 7-Seater SXL AWD 8DCT R988 995
All 2022 Kia Sorento models feature Kia’s Unlimited Kilometre, 5-year warranty, inclusive of roadside assistance, as standard, as well as a 6-year / 90 000 km maintenance plan.