2014 Kia Sorento at the 2012 L.A. Auto Show
- Competes with: Hyundai Santa Fe, Ford Edge, Subaru Forester
- Looks like: Like its Santa Fe sibling, the Sorento gets a more sophisticated look for 2014.
- Drivetrain: A 191-hp, 2.4-liter four-cylinder returns; a 290-hp 3.3-liter V-6 is new.
- Hits dealerships: Early 2013
The Kia Sorento’s corporate cousin, the Hyundai Santa Fe, was just redesigned, so it makes sense that Kia is following suit. The automaker’s midsize crossover gets fresh styling, a new powertrain, an updated interior and the next generation of Kia’s voice-activated multimedia system.
More than 80% of the Sorento’s parts are new or significantly redesigned, according to Kia. The crossover is lower and wider, with a more aggressive-looking stance. Its grille gets a makeover, too, with silver or black mesh finishes. Also new are LED- accented headlights. Optional 19-inch wheels are another first for the Sorento.
Trim levels carry over and include LX, EX, LX V6, EX V6 and SX; a top-of-the-line SX Limited is new for 2014. LX and EX models use a version of last year’s 191-horsepower, 2.4-liter four-cylinder. Optional on those versions and standard on all others is a new 290-hp, 3.3-liter V-6 with direct injection. It replaces a 276-hp, 3.5-liter V-6. A six-speed automatic transmission is standard.
The SX Limited will go on sale during the second quarter of next year. SX Limited-specific standard features include high- intensity-discharge headlights, 19-inch chrome wheels, Nappa leather-trimmed seats, a heated wood steering wheel and heated rear seats.
The 2014 Kia Sorento goes on sale early next year.
