KEY POINTS:
Kia expects its updated four-wheel-drive Sorento to be as successful as the outgoing model. The Sorento won several awards worldwide, including best 4WD in Britain, as well as customer satisfaction surveys from leading US research group J D Power and Associates.
"The judges will be even happier with the new model," says John Keenan, general manager of Kia Motors New Zealand.
The replacement Sorento gets an extensive makeover, including new front and rear styling, ride and handling revisions, interior appointments and a smoother and more powerful 2.5-litre diesel engine.
The main body structure is the same, but the styling is more sophisticated, with larger and more rounded front and rear bumpers that add 20mm to the length of the vehicle.
The projection-style headlights and front grille are complemented by new tail lights. The Sorento also has larger 17-inch alloy wheels.
Inside, the changes are more far-reaching, with redesigned seats for more support. A new dashboard and centre console house improved instruments and better controls for the upgraded air conditioning.
Kia has used higher-quality upholstery materials (velour on the EX and new sports leather seating with red needlepoint inserts and stitching on the Limited) and subdued colours for the trim.
The real difference can be felt on the road, where key changes to the suspension system have resulted in better handling and ride.
Kia has retuned the springs and dampers on the fully independent suspension set-up and upgraded the brakes. It has also added an Electronic Stability Programme.
The introduction of the latest 2.5-litre diesel engine has provided Kia with the opportunity to rationalise the Sorento range in New Zealand and just run with the diesel model.
The engine is compatible with stricter Euro 4 emission standards in Europe and is cleaner and more powerful. It produces 125kW (168bhp) at 3800rpm and 392Nm of torque 2000rpm, increases of 21 and 25 per cent.
Kia says the model consumes fuel at 8.6 litres/100km. The model the company ran in the recent Energywise Rally did 7.7 litres/100km, or 37mpg.
The Sorento is fitted with a dashboard-mounted switch to select the driving mode.
These are 4WD high/low or a 2WD high system for general use and improved fuel economy.
Pricing for the new Sorento range starts at $49,800.
