The Kia sorento is getting an EV9-inspired upgrade and it’s launching here in second half of 2023.
Kia is expected to reveal a more specific launch date soon.
Spy photo shared on Korean site auto spy depicts Sorento prototypes with the side profile unchanged but camouflaged front and rear.
The most significant changes are up front, with new vertically oriented headlights similar to those of Kia’s upcoming electric model, as well as the Telluride we missed locally.
While the prototypes are heavily camouflaged at the rear, we can see the taillights remain largely unchanged with two separate vertical segments on each side. It is still unclear if Kia will add a trendy light bar.
These photos also reveal bold new wheel designs for the Sorento, with one resembling a pinwheel and the other featuring square elements.
Expect changes in the update Sorento cabin, largely focused on display technology and less cluttered dashboards.
A cluster that almost surrounds the digital instrument cluster and infotainment screen has appeared in the smaller version Seltos And sport, the second version is offered with a larger 12.3-inch central touchscreen. The updated Telluride has a similar setup and we expect the same here.
The Sorento currently tops out with a 10.25-inch touchscreen, although in the GT-Line version it also boasts a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. Kia has confirmed all new generation and updated models will get Kia Connect.
As a combination of both direct service and smartphone app, Kia Connect uses an integrated modem and Optus SIM.
Vehicles and HVAC controls are also expected to be combined into a capacitive touch bar, as seen in the Sportage.
Given Sorento’s leadership position in Kia on a global level – the Telluride is exclusive to markets like North America and the Middle East – we can also expect to see new technology from the Hyundai Motor Group and /or more luxurious features like ventilated second-row seats and three- or four-zone climate control.
Depending on the market, we could also see things like matrix LED headlight technology – the new Sportage is now offering it in Europe.
The current fourth-generation Kia Sorento makes its global debut in 2020 and offers a range of powertrains depending on the market.
Australia is one of the few markets offering a naturally aspirated 3.5 liter V6 engine, while other markets offer both naturally aspirated and turbocharged 2.5 liter four-cylinder petrol engines.
The Sorento for the Australian market is also available with a 2.2-litre turbocharged diesel four-cylinder, as well as a turbocharged and plug-in hybrid 1.6-litre four-cylinder powertrain.
Since the diesel is sold in Europe, it might be appropriate to get a 48V mild hybrid system as we’ve seen on other Kia models in the region. It is not clear if the technology will appear in Australia.
Sorento’s facelift could give it a bolder, more dignified look, while also helping it match other Kia SUVs, while keeping it fresh compared to the competition. Hyundai Santa Fe.
A new generation of Santa Fe is will be revealed this year with a completely different styling, eliminating the curves of the current car for a boxy, bluff body.
THAN: Everything Kia Sorento
