Blog Details

The Sorento debuted in 2002 as a traditional truck-based body-on-frame SUV. It had a wide range of engine options to choose from, including three gasoline V6 units and a 2.5-liter inline-four diesel.

It received high praise for the way its optional four-wheel-drive system helped the SUV perform in off-road conditions. Other than that, it did not stand out, offering an uninspired design that made it look more like a cheap first-generation Mercedes ML.

The model evolved through the years along with the entire KIA brand and gained a personality, helped by the numerous technological improvements, not to mention a complete exterior redesign.

In contrast to the 2002 model, the new fourth-generation Sorento is a thing of beauty in terms of design. It features an imposing redesigned front grille that integrates the new aggressive-looking headlights perfectly.

Just as the previous generation, it offers either a 5-seater or 7-seater configuration but is stronger, lighter, and more versatile than any other Sorento, while also promising to be the most high-tech Kia ever.

The engine options have also been updated with the long-standing V6 and inline-four Theta powerplants being replaced by the smaller and more efficient Hyundai-Kia Smartstream engines.

Among them, Kia offers two hybrid options for the first time. The turbo-hybrid powertrain available at launch features a 1.6-liter turbocharged Smartstream direct-injection inline-four aided by a 44.2 kW electric motor that combines for an output of 227 hp (230 PS; 169 kW).

The Sorento will also be available in the first half of 2021 with a more powerful Plug-in Hybrid powertrain to meet the demands of those that prefer PHEVs. It will use the same 1.6-liter T-GDi engine as the hybrid version, and will be paired with a powerful electric motor that produces 66.9 kW. Together, they generate 262 hp (195 kW; 265 PS) and allow for 48 km (30 miles) of all-electric driving range.

To accommodate these powertrains, the Sorento uses the newly developed Hyundai-Kia N3 platform that is shared with the eighth generation Hyundai Sonata and the recently facelifted fourth-generation Santa Fe.

It offers a flexible design that integrates the engine battery pack, fuel tank, and electric motor into the vehicle’s structure while also maximizing interior space.

Due to the small size of the Smartstream engine, the electric motor is mounted between the engine and transmission. It powers the front wheels in all-electric mode or provides an additional 90 hp and 304 Nm torque to the gasoline engine.

The high-capacity lithium-ion polymer battery pack is placed under the driver and front passenger seats and offers structural support for the chassis, being integrated between the cabin floor and the SUV’s underfloor.

In the all-wheel-drive models, the shape of the pack allows the propshaft to sit under it without having to modify the structural design of the battery or the chassis.

The low positioning of the battery, between the two axles, lowers the center of gravity and drastically improves weight distribution. This translates into a balanced and comfortable ride in both road and off-road conditions and surprisingly agile handling.

Also located beneath the floor, under the second row of seats, is the Sorento’s 67-liter fuel tank while the 3.3 kW on-board charger is situated beneath the cargo area, allowing for seven passengers and cargo space.

The 2021 Kia Sorento is one of the most interesting SUVs available for the upcoming model year as it offers plenty of room, a load of new technologies, and a vast suite of safety features. Moreover, the exquisite exterior design, premium interior materials, and the addition of hybrid powertrains allow it to compete with much more expensive rivals.

Source autoevolution.com