Kia has kicked off 2018 with an update to the Sorento SUV range, introducing two new, sporty trim levels and a fresh 8-speed automatic gearbox, replacing the 6-speed transmission previously used.
GT-Line and GT-Line S variants of the Sorento inject a racier look into the firm’s flagship SUV. Both feature 19-inch alloy wheels as standard, alongside stainless steel side steps, red brake calipers, new foglamps and twin exhaust pipes. GT-Line models get projection headlights, while GT-Line S features LED headlights as standard.
The new GT-Line car is based on the mid-range KX-2 Sorento, but gains a stop/start button, eight-way adjustable electric seats, a 7-inch LCD instrument display, lane keep assist, and a driver attention warning system. GT-Line S builds on this with a park assist feature, a top-down look 360-degree camera system, adaptive cruise control, a ten-way adjustable electric driver’s seat, a panoramic roof, additional driver assists including autonomous emergency braking, and a premium Harman & Kardon sound system.
Kia claims the new gearbox improves fuel economy over the outgoing 6-speed. With the new gearbox in place an official figure of 43.5mpg is quoted, with 170g/km CO2. No changes have been made to the Sorento’s 2.2-litre, 197bhp turbodiesel engine.
Elsewhere, one minor change across the range has been introduced for 2018; Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is now installed as standard on KX-1, KX-2 and KX-3 models.
