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New Kia Sorento unveiled
01 April 2009
Kia has unveiled the all-new Sorento at the Seoul Motor Show.
Kia is offering the new Sorento with three engines, including a 2.4-litre four cylinder petrol engine delivering 173bhp and 166lb ft of torque and a 2.2-litre diesel that generates 194bhp and 321lb ft.
These two engines are expected to form the line-up when the Sorento goes on sale in the UK later this year.
There is also a 2.7-litre V6 running on LPG, called the ‘Mu LPI’, with 163bhp and 180lb ft of torque.
The all-new six-speed auto 'box is a regular 'torque converter' transmission but Kia claims it is 54mm shorter, has 62 fewer parts, weighs 12kg less and boosts fuel economy by 12 per cent over a traditional auto 'box.
The car is offered with a 2WD and 4WD drivetrain, the former offering better economy and lower weight over off-road ability.
The MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension is carried over from the previous model, but has been improved, says Kia.
The longer bodyshell means the Sorento now has slightly more interior space than the previous model. As a result, it will seat up to seven people.
Interior headroom is increased by 64mm and legroom by 102mm. Luggage space has been improved by 15 per cent.
The company has ditched the body-on-frame structure in favour of a monocoque bodyshell.
The new car has Kia’s latest signature grille and wraparound black bezel headlights, while there is a simple tailgate and large lights at the rear.
“The dynamic design of new Sorento adopts simple, linear lines to create a powerful, yet polished appearance. Sporty and striking, the new Sorento represents a new breed of vehicle,” said Peter Schreyer, chief design officer of Kia.
Although there has been no official confirmation, starting prices should be just above £18,000 when the car goes on sale in the UK.
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