High level with the fourth generation of the Sorento: Kia’s European flagship | Tyrolean daily newspaper online

By Markus Höscheler

Neustift – There are parts of the world where Kia dares to offer something really big like the luxury SUV Telluride. Europe is not one of them, because vehicles over five meters in length are not as accepted here as in North America, for example. But if the upper class is not allowed, then at least the midsize SUV Sorento. This model has continuously improved from generation to generation; the latest series is evidence of this again. A glance at the design is enough, because the massive, wide radiator grille with the connected, three-part LED lights catches the beholder’s gaze. The same applies to the two-part taillights, which are arranged vertically and radiate something noble. The elongated D-pillar, the small fin in the area of ​​the C-pillar, the dominant roof spoiler with integrated rear window wiper and the distinctive bead above the side skirts are also striking.

No matter how much the 4.81 meter long Sorento places value on visual presence – the mid-size SUV wants to please even more inside: with selected materials, with excellent workmanship, with a contemporary infotainment system and with a high degree of user-friendliness. In the model we briefly test-driven this week, the 12.3-inch touchscreen on the center console and the high-resolution, fully digital instrumentation (10.25-inch), as well as a mixture of touch surfaces and analogue controls, are particularly impressed. By and large, the various functions are self-explanatory, the unsolvable puzzles fortunately remain absent. The seats (which are covered with attractive leather) can be described as comfortable and easily adjustable, as easy to connect to common smartphones.

The equipment with driver assistance systems is lavish – there is no other way to describe it – and the numerous cameras and sensors on board are also helpful. As a special gimmick, there is even a driverless parking function via key buttons, which can be useful in tight parking spaces.

Regardless of the equipment, the Sorento has evolved in the area of ​​the driving experience. This is particularly evident in the steering, which has gained in directness and precision and makes cornering in the Wipp- and Stubaital almost child’s play. The suspension setup of the Sorento is also consistent, which promises a lot of comfort and yet does not allow any rocking in any direction.

The perceptible noise of the 2.2-liter four-cylinder turbodiesel can only be a minimal disruptive element in cold running – in the further course, the 202 hp unit comes into play in conjunction with a fast-shifting eight-speed dual clutch transmission and a balanced, with several driving modes underlaid all-wheel drive system wacker. The lavishly equipped Sorento is available from 61,990 euros (five-seater) or from 62,990 euros (seven-seater), with plug-in hybrid and full hybrid to follow after the turn of the year.