The
2016 Kia Sorento represents the third
generation of the Korean automaker’s popular crossover utility vehicle. It is
based on the Cross GT concept vehicle that bowed two years ago at the Chicago
Auto Show. Kia is also
celebrating its 20th anniversary in the U.S. and has grown from two available
vehicles to 12.
This
latest Kia Sorento hits the
ground running, featuring a stronger body structure, a wheelbase that’s 3.1
inches wider and an overall length that’s three inches longer as well. The CUV
comes in either a versatile two- or three-row seating configuration and comes
loaded with enhancements in driving dynamics and technological advancements.
Overall
cargo volume in the new Sorento increases from 72.5 cu.-ft. to 74 cu.-ft.,
while cargo volume behind the third row increases from 9.1 cu.-ft. to 11
cu.-ft., providing increased space for essentials and active-lifestyle
equipment without sacrificing rear-passenger room.
The
2016 Kia Sorento will be
available in five distinctive levels of trim: the base L; an LX that moves up
the scale in terms of features and equipment; the EX, SX and the flagship SXL.
Dependent upon the trim level, the 2016 five-passenger Sorento comes with a
40/20/40 folding second-row as standard fare (4-cylinder models) or in a 50/50 folding
third-row seven-passenger seating configurations (V6 models). For added luxury,
heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, a 14-way power driver and
8-way power passenger seats, driver’s seat thigh extension, a four-way headrest
with one-button adjustment, dual-zone HVAC and Kia’s second-generation
panoramic sunroof, as well as available premium Nappa leather trim seating
surfaces, similar to those found in Kia’s luxury flagship sedan, the K900 are
all available.
Second-
and third-row passengers will enjoy enhanced comfort thanks to a .5-inch
increase in rear passenger space for both rows and a roomier flattened
second-row center floor. Access to third-row seating is improved with 1.5
inches of additional boarding space, while headroom throughout the cabin is
also increased.
The new
Kia Sorento has
improved in its visual appeal, drawing some of its design inspiration from
nature. Overall, the Sorento displays a more athletic and planted stance,
communicating a pleasing edginess. The profile presents a clean and simple
image that’s easily recognizable as a Sorento, with stronger shoulders and a
long hood that delivers a more aerodynamic and sleek persona. The Sorento’s
packaging is more efficient, allowing for greater interior room. The front end
is aggressively styled, and with its narrower headlight design, is an evolution
of the upper fascia seen on the Cross GT concept, while bearing a strong family
resemblance to the all-new Kia Sedona
multipurpose vehicle. Distinctive LED positioning lights set the Sorento apart
from others in the midsize CUV segment.
Sitting
below the headlights, the lower intake and fog lamp pockets are more prominent,
showcasing a sportier appearance that blends harmoniously with the overall
styling proportions. Premium enhancements include available LED rear
dimensional tail lamps and LED fog lamps. The body rides on four new alloy
wheel designs, ranging from 17 to 19 inches, depending on trim level.
In
terms of progressive technology, four additional UVO eServices are now
available: Geo-fencing, Speed Alert, Curfew Alert and Driving Score.
Additionally, with the introduction of the Kia App store, select apps may
be downloaded at no charge from iTunes or Google Play. The Kia app connector is available
for partnership with the content community for downloading apps such as Yelp,
while Soundhound, Pandora and iHeart Radio will come preloaded at a later date.
Accessed
through a crystal-clear 8-inch capacitive-touch color screen, the available
navigation system features SD card storage for MAP DATA and USB 2.0 support for
high-speed updates as well as an integrated rear backup camera, Bluetooth
hands-free support and UVO voice recognition A 4.3-inch TFT color touch screen
is standard, which also incorporates Bluetooth and UVO voice recognition
capability.
Safety
issues are addressed by such features as: seatbelt anchor pretensioners and six
airbags, with all Sorento models providing standard active safety features such
as Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control System, Brake Assist System,
Hill-start Assist Control, Electronic Brake Force Distribution and Antilock
Braking System. Additional technologies such as Roll Over Mitigation and
Cornering Brake Control on AWD models also were added as standard equipment for
improved dynamic control and safety.
New
available driver aid technology, includes: Vehicle Stability Management,
Forward Collision Warning System, Smart Cruise Control, Blind Spot Detection,
Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Surround View Monitor.
Sorento
will continue to offer an advanced AWD system that automatically routes power
to the wheel with the most traction. Should conditions require more sure-footed
capability, a 4WD Lock Mode splits engine power evenly between the front and
rear drive shafts. The system also provides drivers the added stability of
Torque Vector Cornering Control, which is activated when yaw and steering
sensors detect unwanted understeer. V6 models are capable of towing up to 5,000
pounds.
During
the national media launch of the 2016 Kia Sorento, I was able to experience
time behind the wheel of both the new 2.0 T and V6 powered versions in AWD and
in SXL Trim. The Turbo model wore an exterior coat of Titanium Silver metallic,
while the V6 sported a Snow White Pearl effect exterior. Base pricing ranges
from $24,900 for the 2.0T to $43,100 for the V6. I later spent time piloting
the SXL AWD 2.0T on my home turf with an exterior finish of Titanium Silver,
and the interior executed in silver and black tones. Its base price was set at
$41,700. Which increased to $45,095.after adding the SXL Technology Package and
the Inland Freight and Handling Fee.
SUMMARY: Driving the all-new 2016 Kia Sorento powered by
either the 2.0T turbocharged 4-cylinder or the 3.3-liter V6 provided a most
pleasurable experience. Both engines provide satisfying performance levels in
terms of acceleration, while the four-banger obviously has to work a little
harder and emits a little more noise in the process, but not an objectionable
amount.
The
transmission shifts smoothly, almost imperceptibly in either fully automatic
mode or in manual mode, which proves to be somewhat more responsive.
The
interior ambience and the ride quality are quite pleasing — not too firm and
not too soft. Handling characteristics consist of an on-center steering feel
and a planted stability.
The
2016 Kia Sorento
will be built at Kia’s U.S. manufacturing plant in West Point, Ga., where the
Optima is also built.
In
final analysis, the 2016 Kia Sorento in virtually any of its configurations or
trim levels, delivers a solid value in a package that is not only good looking,
but is capable of fulfilling a wide variety of functional desires and
individual requirements.
The Buzz
“The
2016 Kia Sorento represents
the third generation of the Korean automaker’s popular crossover utility
vehicle.”
The Specs
2016
Kia Sorento CUV
Base Price:
$41,700.
Price as Tested: $45,095.
Engine Type and Size: 2.0T, DOHC,
16-valve, turbocharged inline four-cylinder with dual CVVT and Gasoline Direct
Injection.
Horsepower (bhp): 240 @ 6,000 rpm.
Torque (ft./ lbs.): 260 @ 1,450-3,500 rpm.
Engine Type and Size: 3.3 –L, DOHC,
24-valve GDI with dual CVVT.
Horsepower (bhp): 290 @ 6,400 rpm
Torque (ft./ lbs.): 252 @ 5,300 rpm
Transmission: Electronically
controlled six-speed automatic, overdrive, with Sportmatic manual shift.
Drive Train: Transversely mounted front engine /
FWD or AWD with torque on demand and locking center differential.
Suspension: Front — Independent MacPherson
struts, coil springs and stabilizer bar. Rear — Independent, Multi-link,
stabilizer bar, DFD (Dual Flow Dampers).
Brakes: Power-assisted four-wheel discs (vented front)
with ABS, ESC, TCS, BAS, HAC and CBC.
Tires: Michelin Premiere 265/55 R19 mounted on
5-“Y”-spoke alloy wheels with painted inserts.
Wheelbase: 109.4 inches.
Length Overall: 187.4 inches.
Width: 74.4 inches.
Height: 66.5 inches — with roof rails.
Curb Weight:
4,101 lbs.
Turning Circle: 36.2 ft.
Fuel Capacity: 18.8 gallons.
EPA Mileage Estimates: Not yet certified.
Drag Coefficient: 0.33.
0 - 60 mph: Not tested.
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