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Kia has revealed images of the new Sorento SUV ahead of a public debut at the Geneva motor show.

 

The new car gets a “more assertive face” with the latest interpretation of the brand’s tiger nose grille which is wider wrapping around the integrated headlamps on each side.

 

While on the headlamps, they feature a new ‘tiger eye’ LED daytime running light, that Kia says adds “extra focus to the design by depicting the intense impression of the lines around a tiger’s eyes.”

 

The proportions have changed thanks to shorter front and rear overhangs and a longer wheelbase. The new design extends the length of the bonnet, drawing the A-pillar 30mm further back from the front axle for a more ‘cab-rearward’ look.

 

Dimensionally, the new Sorento is 10mm longer than its predecessor with the wheelbase extended by 35mm to 2815mm. 

  

On the inside, Kia is moving the seven-seat Sorento upmarket with “a sophisticated new design, incorporating cutting-edge infotainment, supreme practicality, and premium-grade materials.”

 

The interior comprises new metallic trims, leather upholstery and embossed wood-effect surfaces.

 

Depending on the trim level, a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system will be available, as will a new 12.3-inch high-resolution digital instrument cluster.

 

At this stage, Kia Australia is yet to announce what powertrain options will be offered locally. Globally, the Sorento is expected to be available with a range of petrol, diesel and hybrid powerplants with the choice of front- or all-wheel drive.

 

Update: Kia has announced initial powertrain options will include petrol and diesel engines along with a petrol-electric hybrid. The latter combines a 1.6-litre turbo-petrol engine with a 44.2Kw electric motor and a 1.49kWh battery pack. In total, the system produces 169kW and 350Nm. 

  

Kia will also offer its new 2.2-litre turbo-diesel engine producing 149kW and 440Nm matched to a new eight-speed wet dual-clutch transmission. 

  

The new eight-speed transmission will also be available with a 2.5-litre turbocharged petrol unit that delivers 207kW and 421Nm.

It is likely Australia will get the updated 2.2-litre diesel unit and continue with the current 3.5-litre V6 petrol.