Just about a month after the last time a prototype
of the next-generation Kia Sorento was caught via spy shots, the bounty of the internet
gleaned us a few more, this time at the famed Nurburging. In these videos we received most recently,
it is caught wearing its usual production body and headlights, minus any fake
body panels, which finally offers up a good view at its final shape. The
taillamps seen were not what you'd usually find among a production cluster, but
just temporary test units. This particular testing model seems to be the same
one that was sent digitally to our desks here at Jim Butler Kia of St Louis
earlier this year.
Since this is the third time it has been spotted
by numerous media outlets and photographers, this could mean that hefty
endurance tests are being carried out at this world-famous track. Even though
it was decided that the Sorento did not seem like it was in its natural
habitat, it's important to consider that this is a large SUV, and even with a
bit of body roll in the corners, the suspension will be geared towards comfort
instead of aggressive performance.
At this time there are not many details about the
engine selection that will reside in the new generation of the Sorento, but
it's probably a safe bet that various electrification plans are imminent. The
current 3.3-liter V6 and 2.4-liter inline-four are expected to carry over,
cranking out 290 and 185 horsepower respectively. Most of the other reports we
are seeing claim that this three-row SUV should arrive at some point during the
first half of next year, but a precise unveiling date is not yet known.
Jeff Perez of Motor1.com enjoyed a
test drive of the 2019 model near Crested Butte, Colorado last year, and
immediately claimed that it offered up a great sense of comfort as well as
capability. This year's model offered brand-new 19-inch wheels, a new diffuser,
and plenty of chrome accents. For 2020, all trim levels for the Sorento offered
seven-passenger seating, and it proved to be 100% responsive on some of the
trickiest roads the Rocky Mountain State had to offer. Snowbanks, dirt roads,
and even black ice were no problem at all while lurching through these Colorado
roads equipped with the V6.
If you opt for the EX trim and higher, the Sorento
now comes standard with a forward-collision warning system, adaptive cruise
control, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alerts, and a surround-view
monitoring system. If your business or family happen to be experiencing the
blessing of rapid growth, the tech offerings, hauling capability, and 5,000 –
lb tow rating will all be enormous assets to the daily productivity of your
hard-earned bounty!
