A range of design changes and technology additions headline the the updated 2018 Kia Sorento range.
The 2018 Sorento lineup has been rejigged, the Platinum grade has been dropped and the Si Limited is now the Sport.
Changes to the range include a new eight-speed automatic transmission, an updated petrol engine, increased internal capacity, AEB across the range, advanced cruise control, and new infotainment features. All grades have seen slight pricing increases, however.
In terms of design changes, there are revised front and rear bumpers and a new dark metallic finish to the ‘tiger-nose’ grille. A new range of 17, 18 and 19-inch alloy wheels are fitted for 2018 and there’s the option of a new exterior paint colour, Gravity Blue.
The flagship GT-Line gains new LED head-lamps with Dynamic Bending Light and tail lamps, four-lamp LED fog lights, red brake callipers, a more prominent sill step, GT Line badging and a distinctive new chrome twin exhaust.
The SLi variant will also feature new tail-lamps.
On the inside, a new steering wheel design (that doesn’t look as nice as the outgoing three-spoke one), driver instrument cluster and new climate control LCD display freshen the cabin.
The Audio Visual Navigation (AVN) system is now also displayed on an 8-inch screen. More soft-touch materials and surfaces have been used to improve the cabin ambience.
Aurora Black and Gravity Blue SLi models offer the choice of black and stone leather upholstery whilst two-way adjustable lumbar support is included for all SLi models. GT-Line models gain four-way lumbar support, unique gearshift paddles and a series of satin chrome highlights.
Safety is improved by way of the DRiVE WISE Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). There is the new Driver Attention Alert (DAA) system as well as Lane Keeping Assist.
Smartphone mirroring technology, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are now available.
SLi and GT-Line grades also have the added inclusion of a high-end Harman/Kardon sound system with a 360-degree camera also on the GT-Line.
Under the bonnet of the Kia Sorento will be the choice of a 2.2-litre diesel engine that produces 147kW/441Nm, or a 3.5-litre petrol engine capable of 206kW of power and 336Nm of torque.
Putting the power down will be a Kia-designed eight-speed automatic transmission. This new transmission replaces the six-speed automatic bringing with it quicker shifting as well as four different selectable driving modes: Eco, Comfort, Sport and Smart.
The new Kia Sorento is available in dealerships around Australia now.
2018 Kia Sorento Pricing (excluding on-road costs):
Petrol variants:
Si - $42,990 (+$2000)
Sport - $44,990 (previously Si Limited +$1000)
SLi - $46,990 (+$1000)
Diesel variants:
Si - $45,490 (+$1000)
Sport - $48,490 (previously Si Limited +$1000)
SLi - $50,490 (+$1000)
GT-Line - $58,990 (+$500)
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