The Kia Sorento is a mid-size crossover SUV manufactured by the South Korean automobile company, Kia Motors. First launched in 2002, the Sorento has evolved significantly over the years.
The first-generation Kia Sorento was introduced in February 2002 as a body-on-frame SUV. It was available in two trims: the base LX and the high-grade EX, with two transmission options—a 5-speed manual and a 5-speed automatic. Standard features included an AM/FM stereo, an eight-speaker audio system, airbags, power windows, power door locks, keyless entry, and air conditioning. In 2007, the Sorento received a facelift, upgrading to a 5-speed Sportmatic Tip-Tronic automatic transmission. Another facelift in 2009 brought minor changes, mainly to the car’s grille.
The second-generation Sorento debuted in 2009 with the signature Kia tiger-nose grille. It was available in four models: LX, EX, SX, and SX-L. This generation introduced new technological features and received an update in 2013 to its instrument panel.
Launched in 2014, the third-generation Sorento came in 5-seater and 7-seater options, with transmission choices of a 6-speed automatic or a 6-speed manual. It offered front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive options. A facelift in 2018 updated the front grille, external bumpers, and exterior lighting. The third-generation Sorento was launched in Pakistan in February 2021, available in three variants: 2.4L Front Wheel Drive (FWD), 2.4L All Wheel Drive (AWD), and 3.5L Front Wheel Drive (FWD).
The Kia Sorento 2024 features a bold design with the signature tiger-nose grille. It includes Bi-Function Projection LED headlamps, LED daytime running lights (DRLs), LED position lamps, and LED fog lamps. The car’s side mirrors are electrically adjustable, retractable, and heated, with integrated side repeater lamps. The rear showcases vertically positioned LED rear combination lamps and a purposeful spoiler with an integrated LED high-mounted stop lamp. The roof is equipped with a panoramic sunroof and a shark fin antenna.
Inside, the Kia Sorento 2024 boasts a leather-wrapped steering wheel with tilt and telescopic adjustment features, along with controls for audio, calls, voice recognition, cruise control, and MID functions. Behind the steering wheel is a 3.5” Cluster Conventional TFT LCD with a rheostat displaying essential car information. The 7-inch infotainment system supports radio, media, and a rearview camera display, with six audio speakers and AUX and Bluetooth connectivity. The Sorento features three rows of seats, with the driver’s seat in the 2.4L FWD variant offering powered reclining, sliding, height adjustment, and cushion tilting. The other trims provide these features for the front passenger seat as well, along with lumbar support for the driver’s seat. The second-row seats have a 4/2/4 split feature, while the third-row seats have a 5/5 split feature. The car is equipped with automatic dual-zone climate control, including air conditioner vents in the third row.
Safety features in the Kia Sorento 2024 include electronic stability control, a brake assist system, Hill Start Assist Control, Vehicle Stability Management, an anti-lock braking system, and ISOFIX child anchors. The 2.4L FWD variant has two airbags for the driver and front passenger, while the 2.4L AWD and 3.5L FWD variants come with four airbags.
The 2.4L FWD and 2.4L AWD variants are powered by a 2359cc Theta-II 2.4L DOHC engine, generating 127 kW at 6000 rpm and 225 Nm at 4000 rpm. Both trims feature a 6-speed automatic and Sportmatic transmission. The 3.5L FWD trim is equipped with a 3470cc Lambda-II 3.5L V6 engine, coupled with an 8-speed automatic and SportsMatic transmission, producing 206 hp at 6300 rpm and 336 Nm at 5000 rpm.
The Kia Sorento 2024 offers a smooth and comfortable driving experience. The steering is responsive, allowing easy control, while the suspension effectively absorbs road imperfections. The car handles well, even on sharp turns, with minimal body roll.
As the Kia Sorento 2024 is locally assembled in Pakistan, its auto parts are readily available in the market, and Kia’s after-sales service is commendable, making maintenance convenient.
The Kia Sorento 2024 competes with the Toyota Fortuner, Toyota Prado, and Corolla Cross. The Sorento is more affordable than its competitors, offering similar features, which makes it an attractive option. However, the Fortuner and Prado have a strong consumer base and are associated with higher socio-economic status in Pakistan, making them tough competitors. The Corolla Cross is also more expensive and is a 5-seater vehicle, making it a less direct competitor to the 7-seater Sorento.
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