We are excitedly situated in one of the most action-packed times of year as a car dealer: not only has the 2018 lineup been completely announced and for the most part arrived, but glimpses of an exciting future are also on hand. The 2017 Sorento truly tried to up the ante and dominate two markets with one vehicle, and many consumers loved the avid 5-seater right off the bat. This year, the top-of-the-line SXL was just a V-6 item, all SXL versions were equipped with HID headlights, as well as a 360-degree camera system. Adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and an electric parking brake were included within the SXL level to boot.
Car and Driver were impressed with the engineering that resulted in less exterior noise, and pointed out that it was an impressive seven decibels quieter than the Audi Q7 during idle. The 2019 Sorento is slated to be available in front or all-wheel drive configurations, and on limited models, comes standard with seating room for seven. Another great new feature is two-way Lumbar support for the front passenger, one of the top features recommended by chiropractors for better posture. Nappa leather upholstery in Mahogany or Terracotta two-tone schemes is a noticeable upgrade as well, and the car is available in front or rear-wheel configurations.
The large difference under the hood is the addition of updated transmissions: a six-speed automatic accompanies the base 185-hp 2.4-liter model, and the 290-hp 3.3-liter V-6 is paired with the 8-speed automatic transmission found in the Cadenza full-size sedan. The new Harman Kardon premium surround sound system will noticeably enhance your audio experience; this is one brand of equipment that always dazzles us as far as sound dimensions are concerned. There are new lighting patterns on the taillights, and the ice cube LED foglights have been trimmed down a bit, with a good aesthetic result. The 2019 Sorento gets an infotainment system that is updated with Apple CarPlay + Android Auto capability, and there is a 7-inch touchscreen even on the base trim level.
Safety is the category that many customers come to us and rave about how satisfied they are with Kia, purchase after purchase. All 2019 Sorentos with EX trim or higher will include forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. All-wheel drive models will still come with a 4-wheel lock mode, which splits power evenly from front to rear, and employs torque vectoring to help minimize understeer.
So many potential buyers come to us on the lot and ask just why the Sorento is better than the Chevy Traverse. Sure, they both have size: we love how this is not a tiny SUV that could be tipped under pressure like a flimsy matchbox. Come down and give the Sorento a test drive: when you experience the agile response, perfectly grippy handling, and safety features on board, you'll be ready to succumb to the anticipation of the 2019 wait list!
