Kia Sorento

Introduction :

The acclaimed automaker of south Korea made the first appearance of its traditional, truck-like designed, Sorento in 2002 which provided the level of ruggedness which is not typically found on Crossover SUVs. The first model was equipped with the above average off-road abilities and towing capabilities. Initial model was powered with the V6 engine. Gradually as the market changed, consumers needed more fuel efficient and better handling qualities which are provided by the car-like architecture. The current Sorento is a mid sized SUV available in 5 seater or seven seater configuration powered with the choice of six speed manual and automatic transmission.

Engine, Mileage and its variants :

The new attractive Sorento is available with the AWD system which helps to maintain the utmost traction on rough, loose and slippery surfaces. Along with its two variant offered with 7 seater and 5 seater format, it also renders the choice of two efficient petrol and diesel engine : 2.4 GDI gasoline engine and 2.2 CRDI diesel engine.The 2.4 liter Gasoline engine is the centrifugal for the power output of 172 PS at 6000 rpm with max. torque of 227 Nm at 3750 rpm.The 2.2 liter Diesel engine is the centrifugal for the power output of 200 PS at 3800 rpm with max. torque of 436 Nm at 1800-2500 rpm. The six speed automatic transmission provides the smooth and seamless shifting while improving the fuel efficiency while available six speed manual transmission offers high torque on demand for acceleration and and sporty performance. The fuel efficiency for both engine choices lies between 11.62 - 14.70 kmpl. With the choice of 2.4 liter Sorento achieves the top speed of 167 kmph while crossing the speedmark of 100kmph within 14.8-15.5 secs.

Exteriors :

The newer Sorento looks more appealing and shows its all-weather practicality. The sleek and agile Sorento brings luxury and practicality with ideally proportioned body. The newly elevated headlamps and bonnet cuts a bold and substantial figure while the bright LED stop lamps at rear are integrated into taillamps which assist in communicating to the traffic mush easily. The 7 seater SUV Sorento gets the dimension of 4780 x 1890 x 1685 mm with wheelbase of 2780. The front redesigned chrome grille suits with stylish bonnet crafted with character lines. The body colour exterior mirrors are integrated with the LED turn indicators while roof mounted roof rail enhances its sporty stance. Further in its side profile the concave and convex surface makes the compatibility with its styling where the door handles are given the chrome touch. Its 180 mm ground clearance is suited with 235/60 R18 tyres.

Interiors :

Sorento greets you inside with a rich cabin and adjustable seats that allow to slide straight with no need to climb up or down into driver's seat. The prudently sculpted cockpit gives the optimum comfort where the dual pane panoramic sunroof adds a new dimension of sunny charm. In 7 seat segment, the second row seat auto fold and slides 270 mm to make ease of egress and ingress to rearmost occupant while third row seat splits and folds 50:50. The driver can make use of 7 inch TFT LCD supervision duster which reports the outside temperature, fuel consumption, audio info etc. The rear passenger is able to adjust airflow with rear vents and control which are mounted at the back of center console. Further 8 inch visual navigation system is also featured with wide viewing angle LCD touch screen. The true practicality is shown with the Sorento which offer the large cargo space just by pressing and holding a button under tailgate for 3 seconds. With third row in place it offer the bootspace of 143 liters.

Safety, Brakes and Miscellaneous :

The Sorento not only boasts of its advanced styling but also shows its richness in terms of safety with the smart Parking Assist system, Adaptive front Light system and Speed limit information system which minimizes the minor crashes. The Advanced Smart Cruise system monitors the distance with the vehicle ahead using sensors while blind spot detection system senses the object at blind spot and warns the driver negating the risk of crash. Further dual airbag system enhances passive safety of passengers.

Verdict:

Kia's Sorento is an attractive SUV which offers buyers plenty of options. It can act as a great family drive over the weekends and also a rugged commuter whenever required. The Gasoline engine however does experiences some lag while shifting gears.