First Look: 2014 Kia Forte Sedan

Kia has unveiled a significantly updated version of its four-door Forte at the LA Auto Show. The new compact will do battle with the likes of the Ford Focus, Hyundai Elantra, Honda Civic, and Chevrolet Cruze.

Power comes from a pair of engines. The base engine, a 1.8-liter four-cylinder delivers a respectable 148 horsepower and 131 pound-feet of torque, and is available on the Forte LX. The LX is available with either a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic.

Moving up to the EX gives drivers a touch more power courtesy of a 2.0-liter four with 173 horsepower and 154 pound-feet of torque. It’s not likely to set freeways alight, but it certainly fits in well with the competition. Shifting duties on the top-spec Forte are handled by a six-speed autobox. Unfortunately, economy figures aren’t available for either engine at present.

We may not be able to comment on fuel economy, but we can talk about the Forte’s new sheetmetal. We’d make a strong argument that this new Kia is one of the best looking vehicles in its segment. It looks like a miniaturized Optima with smoother lines. With styling penned by Kia’s American Design Center in California, this new Forte is sure to stand out from the crowd.

The interior doesn’t seem to carryover the exteriors stunning good looks. It’s acceptable, with a logical layout and enough space, but we’d hoped for something a bit flashier to match the looks of the exterior.

The all-new, 2014 Kia Forte goes on sale during the first quarter of 2013. Pricing info will be released closer to launch.

Please scroll down for the official press release from Kia. 

All-new Forte Offers More Space and a Sleek European-inspired Design

Longer, lower and wider than the previous Forte 

Goes on sale in the first quarter of 2013 offering a plethora of upscale features

Los Angeles, Nov. 28, 2012 – Pulling the silk off the all-new 2014 Forte sedan today at the Los Angeles International Auto Show, Kia Motors America (KMA) revealed a stunning European design-inspired sedan that makes it clear the Korean auto manufacturer has another winner in its line-up of sought-after cars and CUVs.  Sitting on an all-new chassis that is longer, wider and lower than the previous-generation Forte, the all-new third-generation Forte will offer more room, more performance and more premium amenities when it’s expected to go on sale in the first quarter of 2013.  The all-new 2014 Forte will be offered in LX and EX variants with a choice of an efficient 1.8-liter engine or a more powerful 2.0-liter engine.

“The all-new Forte significantly raises the bar, offering upscale amenities and eye-catching appeal,” said Michael Sprague, executive vice president of marketing & communications, KMA.  “When you combine exclusive available features like a ventilated driver’s seat and UVO eServices in a car with such an attractive design, it’s very clear the all-new Forte sets a new standard for the compact segment.”

Set to arrive at Kia retailers in early 2013, the all-new Forte will represent the heart of KMA’s small-car line-up, replacing the current Forte, which has been a sales success story since launching in 2009.  Slotted between the Rio sub-compact sedan and the best-selling Optima mid-size sedan, the all-new Forte includes a raft of unexpected available premium features in a package that easily accommodates five passengers and their belonging

Unexpected Premium Features

Offered in LX and EX trim levels, the all-new Forte proudly carries on Kia’s reputation for offering premium features that redefine automotive segments.  The LX model comes standard with steering wheel mounted audio controls, SiriusXM™ Satellite Radio1, Bluetooth® wireless technology2, power windows, air conditioning and power heated outside mirrors among the many features that make the Forte stand out from its competition.  The optional Popular Package adds 16-inch alloy wheels, cruise control, keyless entry with remote trunk release and a sliding front armrest. The Eco Package includes Kia’s ISG (Idle Stop & Go) system, dual-zone automatic temperature control with rear seat ventilation and unique “eco” badge.

Stepping up to the EX trim broadens Forte’s appeal with additional comfort and convenience features.  Kia’s next-generation UVO in-vehicle infotainment system with eServices is standard and can now be integrated with an optional navigation system.  Additional standard EX features include remote keyless entry with trunk opener, rear camera back-up display3, a sliding center armrest and a cooling glove box.  The new optional Flex Steer system allows the driver to choose between three distinct steering profiles:  Comfort, Normal and Sport.  Features found in the optional Premium Package include heated front and rear seats, a 10-way power adjustable driver’s seat with class-exclusive air-cooled ventilation, leather seat trim, power sunroof, 17-inch alloy wheels and push button start with Smart Key and a heated steering wheel.  Opting for the Technology Package garners HID headlights, LED tail lights, a 4.2-inch color LCD cluster screen and dual-zone automatic temperature control with rear seat ventilation.

Enhanced Performance, Improved Ride and Handling

The all-new Forte offers spirited performance thanks to two advanced four-cylinder engines.  The LX features a 1.8-liter powerplant, while the EX comes standard with a 2.0-liter engine.  Both engines feature dual continuously variable valve timing and a lightweight intake manifold that reduces weight by 30 percent over a cast unit.  The aluminum “bed plate” located below the cylinder block reduces engine NVH levels and improves block rigidity by 30 percent.

With 148 horsepower available at 6,500 rpm and 131 lb.-ft. of torque on tap at 4,700 rpm, the 1.8-liter MPI inline four-cylinder engine found in the LX routes power to the front wheels through either a standard six speed manual transmission or an optional six speed automatic gearbox.

Forte EX enhances the driving experience with a 173-horsepower (at 6,500 rpm) 2.0-liter inline four cylinder GDI engine.  With a robust 154 lb.-ft. of torque available at 4,700 rpm, the EX comes standard with a six speed automatic.

The all-new Forte rides on a chassis that is longer (by 1.2 inches), lower (0.6 inches) and wider (0.2 inches) than the previous Forte sedan.  With its 106.3-inch wheelbase, two inches longer than the outgoing model, the all-new Forte rides on a McPherson strut front suspension and a coupled torsion beam rear axle.  On-center steering feel is improved utilizing larger bushings and revised front suspension geometry.  Electric power steering has replaced the hydraulic system from the previous Forte, reducing parasitic load. Optional Flex Steer puts the driver firmly in control with settings for Comfort, Normal and Sport, which vary steering effort at the touch of a steering wheel-mounted button.

The base LX manual rides on 195/65R-15 tires, while 205/55R-16 tires on 16-inch alloy wheels are optional.  The top-of-the-line EX is shod with the same 55-series tires. Low-profile 215/45-17 tires mounted on sporty 17-inch alloy wheels are optional.

Sport Sedan Design From California

With an aggressive stance, broad shoulders and a windshield rake that can only be described as sporty, the all-new Forte looks as good parked as it does carving through a remote canyon road. Influenced by European sport sedan styling, the Forte’s modern aesthetic was born in California at Kia’s American Design Center in Irvine.

Dramatically swept headlight lenses cut deeply into the front fenders and incorporate projector headlamps.  LED positioning lights create distinct eyebrows, making the Forte instantly recognizable in a crowd.  Gentle sculpting along the Forte’s lower flanks taper the sheet metal inward, affording the car a taut, nimble appearance without diminishing its road presence.  Around back, the up-kicked fender line and trunk design, with its deep horizontal crease, lend width and charisma while allowing the complex curves of the tail lights to flow over the rear haunches.

A Modern and Sophisticated Cabin

Opening the wide doors reveals a cabin sculpted in organic curves.  Gentle ripples across the instrument panel convey serenity, as if small waves are radiating from a pebble dropped into a pond. The driver-centric cabin is canted 10 degrees and features high-quality materials and soft touch points.  Large, easy-to-read instruments dominate the binnacle, and secondary controls fall easily to hand.  The optional 4.2-inch color LCD screen nestled between the white-on-black gauges in the EX provides trip and ancillary vehicle information front and center to the driver.  Tasteful chrome bezels ring the HVAC rotary knobs and the optional push-button start.  Additional chrome accents, standard Bluetooth® hands free phone integration and power windows, mirrors and door locks enhance the all-new Forte’s premium feel.  Optional leather seating trim, power sunroof, and dual-zone automatic climate control with rear seat vents and HID head lights take the Forte to new levels of sophistication.

Kia’s Unprecedented Growth

Kia Motors is one of the world’s fastest moving global automotive brands; from 2009-2011 Kia launched more new vehicles in the U.S. than any other automaker, and under the guidance of chief design officer Peter Schreyer earned a reputation as an industry leader in automotive styling.  Kia Motors America’s full line of fun-to-drive cars and CUVs has earned critical acclaim and dramatically increased consumer awareness, perception and consideration for the brand.  In 2011, KMA recorded its 17th consecutive year of market share growth, thanks in part to the largest increase of any major brand in perceived quality4 and the industry’s highest brand loyalty ranking5.  Kia’s U.S.-based manufacturing facility in West Point, Georgia – KMMG – is responsible for the creation of more than 10,000 plant and supplier jobs and builds two of the company’s best-selling vehicles in the U.S. – the Sorento CUV and Optima midsize sedan*.  Kia’s value and technology-laden lineup also includes the Sportage compact CUV, Soul urban passenger vehicle, Optima Hybrid, Forte compact sedan, Forte 5-door compact hatchback, Forte Koup two-door coupe, Rio and Rio 5-door sub-compacts and Sedona minivan.

About Kia Motors America

Kia Motors America is the marketing and distribution arm of Kia Motors Corporation based in Seoul, South Korea. KMA offers a complete line of vehicles through more than 755 dealers throughout the United States and serves as the "Official Automotive Partner" of the NBA and LPGA. In 2011, KMA recorded its best-ever annual sales total and became one of the fastest growing car companies in the U.S.6 Kia is poised to continue its momentum and will continue to build the brand through design innovation, quality, value, advanced safety features and new technologies.

Source: http://www.windingroad.com/articles/news/first-look-2014-kia-forte-sedan/

Falcons Announce Details of Gary Rome Auto Group Night

November 20, 2012 -American Hockey League (AHL) Springfield Falcons

Springfield, Mass. - The Springfield Falcons, AHL affiliate of the NHL's Columbus Blue Jackets, announced details of Gary Rome Auto Group Night, which will take place when the club hosts the Manchester Monarchs on Saturday, Dec. 1 at 7:00 p.m. at the MassMutual Center.

The game will begin with a ceremonial puck drop by Gary Rome, owner of Gary Rome Auto Group and one of the Falcons' valued corporate partners, along with his dog Jack. The first 3,000 fans into the building that night will receive a postcard with details about a Gary Rome Auto Group Facebook promotion, which includes a grand prize of dinner for two at Picks Restaurant, an overnight stay at the Sheraton Monarch Place, and tickets to a Falcons game. Visit GoToGary.com for details on Gary Rome Hyundaiin Holyoke, Mass. and Gary Rome Kia in Enfield, Conn.

As part of the evening, fans are encouraged to bring a toy to donate to Toys for Tots, a program run by the United States Marine Corps which distributes toys to children whose parents cannot afford to buy them gifts for Christmas. The Toys for Tots bins will be located next to the Pride table in the concourse under section 29 and will be manned by on-site Marines. As an incentive to support this program, any fan who brings a toy for donation will receive a free ticket voucher for the Falcons' home game on Saturday, Dec. 15 when Springfield welcomes St. John's to the MassMutual Center at 7:30 p.m. (one voucher per person).

Fans will be invited to participate in a holiday sing-a-long during the intermissions. Santa Claus will also be venturing down from the North Pole to meet and greet Falcons fans and hang out with his friend Screech.

Single-game tickets to see the Falcons in 2012-2013 can be purchased at the MassMutual Center Box Office from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. through game time on Saturday home dates, and starting four hours prior to Sunday home contests. Fans can also purchase tickets by logging onto Ticketmaster.com. For information about discounted group packages to Falcons home games, call (413) 739-GOAL (4625).

GARY ROME AUTO GROUP’S SCHOOL FUNDRAISER CHALLENGE

Holyoke, Monday, November 12, 2012:Gary Rome Auto Group has embarked on an exciting new project. Gary Rome will assist teachers in earning supplies needed for their classrooms, but are unable to fund the project. He will use his many media outlets to help spread the word about each project in order to bring in more donations.

“Children are the future generation of leaders, so we want to invest in them; says Gary Rome, owner of Gary Rome Hyundai and Kia. We are excited to be contributing to the children within our community. I hope we can all come together and help students and teachers acquire supplies for their projects”.

The program will allow teachers to post their classroom project on reputable website such as donorschoose.org and receive donations for it. Teachers can post their chosen project on any of the three websites (http://www.donorschoose.org;http://www.adoptaclassroom.org/: or http://www.gofundme.com/). In addition, teachers may choose to post projects on any other legitimate websites. The superintendent for each city will choose the top 30 projects. Gary Rome will then use his many media outlets to get the word out and match up to $200 worth of donations.

For more information about the program, please contact Telesha Williams at (413)530-3286 or telesha_williams@yahoo.com. Also, you may contact Tim Ferreira at parts@garyromehyundai.com.

Kia Looking To Offer A Sporty Roadster, Won’t Be The First Time

One of the rising stars of the automotive industry has got to be Kia. The Korean automaker’s beautiful designs combined with good powertrains and affordable pricing has got the attention of many customers and hence their sales numbers are continually climbing.

While their current line-up has sedans, hatchbacks, SUVs, crossovers and even a sporty little coupe, they currently don’t offer a convertible.

However, Kia’s vice-president of sales Tom Loveless said at a recent event in California, that the brand is looking at a halo vehicle and will most probably be a convertible.

The idea is being pushed by Peter Schreyer, Kia’s chief designer, who used to work for Audi and designed cars like the original TT coupe and roadster. A convertible Kia could bring this brand some extra attention.

If this project goes ahead remains to be seen, but it won’t be the first production Kia convertible. Back in the mid-1990′s Kia had got the license to reproduce the Lotus Elan (see picture). It was primarily offered in the Asian market and stayed in production for three-years.

The new roadster will be done completely by Kia and given how nice their regular cars are, we can’t wait to see what they would do for their star car.

[Source: autoguide.com]

2012 Kia Rio & Rio5

Photos by -Autonet.ca

MARIE-EVE CÔTÉ

Published: 12 05 2011

The smallest of the family

Korean automobile builders are gaining popularity points at an impressive rate! Their new models are exquisite, and the competitors never expected so much elegance and refinement at such a competitive price! Kia is the undisputed leader in this domain, and proved it once again at the New York Auto Show by unveiling the car that we patiently waiting for a revamping; the Kia Rio sedan and hatchback along with the softly remodeled Soul 2012.

Search available trim options for the 2011 Kia Rio.

Kia can be proud of its new line up! After the Sorento, the Sportage, the Optima, the Forte, the Forte 5, the Forte Koup, the Rondo and the Sedona, the Rio completes the 2011 family. And it deserves a moment under the spotlight! The sub-compact market is an increasingly popular one in Quebec and the Rio, both the sedan and the hatchback models, is a huge hit, offering a wide range of characteristics that should satisfy its customers. Primarily so thanks to the spatial improvements the model underwent and its rejuvenated look with more sculpted lines, a thinner radiator-like grill (a new characteristic already noticed in the other models) and its more dynamic looking headlights. But also thanks to its wide range of accessories and to its fuel efficiency.

Designed with a longer, wider and lower platform than the previous generation, the car is also lighter, therefore increasing its handling.

The model will be made available in three versions: the LX, the EX and the SX (Rio and Rio5) offered with a GDI engine equipped with four cylinders of 1.6 liters reaching 138 hp, 28 more than the 2011 model.

Both a standard and a 6-speed automatic transmission are offered. An interesting new component that should eventually be made available on all cars is the system that commands both for the engine to be turned off when in traffic and for it to start up again on its own once the break pedal is released, allowing for a considerable fuel economy. The car also features Hill control start and electronic stability control.

The basic LX model is very lightly equipped but the EX version offers a fairly acceptable range of accessories for a car of its category. Electric-command windows, Bluetooth connectivity and leatherette door trimmings are part of the standard equipment. The SX offers even more with metal pedals and trimmings, leather decorations, a speed regulator, Microsoft’s UVO entertainment system equipped with a rear-view camera and chrome-plated accents. Obviously, for 2012, music can be fed through any USB or MP3 support or via the satellite radio. Additional options such as the convenience-groups Eco and Premium are available for an even more personalized touch.

It is therefore a brand new Rio ready to face competition that will be introduced in Canada towards the end of 2011!

Kia is One of Only Two Brands to have the Top Vehicle in More Than One Category

  

IRVINE, Calif., May 13, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- On the heels of back-to-back all-time record monthly sales for Kia Motors America (KMA), the 2011 Sorento CUV and 2011 Sedona minivan earned the top scores in the SUV and Van categories in NADAguides' annual "Best Car Buys for 2011."  The U.S.-built* 2011 Sorento has been Kia Motors' best-selling vehicle for 16 consecutive months and received high marks for its five-star crash safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), outstanding fuel economy, low depreciation and competitive price.  The Sedona was praised for its long list of standard equipment, low starting price, and improved horsepower, and with the popular and fuel-sipping 2011 Soul urban passenger vehicle finishing in the top three in the Wagons category, Kia Motors was one of only four automakers to place three or more models on the report across multiple categories.

"Our design-led transformation has fundamentally changed consumer perception of the Kia brand, and the inclusion of three of our vehicles in NADAguides' Annual 'Best Car Buys' report is further validation that Kia's commitment to bringing a comprehensive lineup to consumers that feature a compelling combination of design, performance, safety, fuel economy and value is resonating with more and more new car shoppers," said Michael Sprague, vice president, marketing & communications, KMA.  "With year-to-date sales up more than 40 percent over 2010, interest in the Kia brand has never been higher as consumers turn to our fresh new products like the Sorento CUV and Soul that not only offer class-leading features but are backed, like the entire Kia lineup, by our industry leading 10-year, 100,000-mile warranty(2)."

The NADAguides Best Car Buys Report is based upon specific criteria important to automotive consumers including price, first year depreciation value, fuel efficiency, warranty coverage and NHTSA safety ratings. NADAguides' analysts developed a calculated study in which all current model year vehicles are analyzed and the top three vehicles within each vehicle segment are then named to the NADAguides Best Car Buys.

About the 2011 Kia Sorento

The 2011 Sorento, the first vehicle to roll off the line at Kia's new state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in West Point, Georgia, encompasses both the brand's signature design cues as well as its distinct combination of value, safety and style.  The 2011 Sorento, which has been Kia's best-selling vehicle each month since going on sale in January 2010, offers consumers a well-equipped, well-appointed CUV, suited perfectly for the fun, dynamic and discerning driver.  Available in LX, EX and SX trim levels, the 2011 Sorento features a starting MSRP of $22,395(3).

About the 2011 Kia Sedona

The 2011 Sedona is available in LX and EX trims, with pricing for the LX starting at $24,595(3) and the EX trim starting at $29,195(3). A segment leader in value and safety features, Sedona offers consumers invaluable protection provided by a wide range of standard safety features, including six standard airbags(4) (dual advanced front and front seat-mounted side air bags, and full-length side curtain air bags for all three seating rows), active front headrests, and a four-channel, four-sensor, Antilock Brake System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), which takes into account vehicle load and weight distribution in order to apply the appropriate-level of stopping force.

About the 2011 Soul

Available in four trims, Soul, Soul+, Soul! (exclaim) and Soul sport, pricing for the dynamic compact CUV begins at $13,300(5) for the base trim, offering standard convenience features, including air conditioning, power windows, door locks and mirrors, SiriusXM™ Satellite Radio capabilities with three months complimentary service(6) and MP3 connectivity.

Soul has earned a trophy case full of prestigious awards and accolades since its launch, including earning a "Top Safety Pick" from IIHS, being a recipient of the "Best Family Cars for 2010" designation by Edmunds.com and Parents Magazine, recognized as "Best Hatchback of 2010" by Cars.com, and "Best New Car for Your Teen" by Kiplinger's Personal Finance.

2011 Kia Motors America Product Line

Kia's model year 2011 vehicle line includes the Sorento CUV, Sportage compact CUV, Optima midsize sedan, Soul urban passenger vehicle, Forte compact sedan, Forte 5-door compact hatchback, Forte Koup two-door coupe, Rio sub-compact sedan, Rio5 sub-compact hatchback and Sedona minivan.

About Kia Motors America

Kia Motors America (KMA) is the marketing and distribution arm of Kia Motors Corporation based in Seoul, South Korea. KMA offers a complete line of vehicles through more than 730 dealers throughout the United States and serves as the "Official Automotive Partner of the NBA."  In 2010, KMA recorded its best-ever U.S. sales and 16th consecutive year of increased U.S. market share. Kia is poised to continue its momentum and will continue to build the brand through design innovation, quality, value, safety features and new technologies.

Information about Kia Motors America and its full vehicle line-up is available at its Web site – www.kia.com.  For media information, including photography, visit www.kiamedia.com.

About NADAguides

NADAguides (www.nadaguides.com) is the largest publisher of vehicle pricing and information for new and used cars, classic cars, motorcycles, boats, RVs, and manufactured homes. NADAguides offers in-depth shopping and research tools in addition to the most market-reflective pricing available. The company also produces software, mobile applications, raw data, web services, web-syndicated products and print guidebooks.

*  Assembled in the United States from U.S. and globally sourced parts.

(1) Starting price is manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) for lowest trim level. MSRPs exclude $795 destination and handling fee, title, taxes, license, options and dealer charges. Actual prices set by dealer and may vary.

(2) See retailer for warranty details or go to kia.com.

(3) Starting price is manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) for lowest trim level. MSRPs exclude $795 destination and handling fee, title, taxes, license, options and dealer charges. Actual prices set by dealer and may vary.

(4) For maximum protection, always wear your seat belt.

(5) Starting price is manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) for lowest trim level. MSRPs exclude $795 destination and handling fee, title, taxes, license, options and dealer charges. Actual prices set by dealer and may vary.

(6) SIRIUS, XM and all related marks and logos are trademarks of SIRIUS XM Radio Inc. and its subsidiaries. SIRIUS Radio requires a subscription, sold separately after 3-month trial subscription included with vehicle purchase. Prices and programming are provided by SIRIUS and are subject to change. Subscriptions governed by SIRIUS Terms & Conditions available at sirius.com. SIRIUS Radio U.S. service available only to those at least 18 years of age in the 48 contiguous United States, D.C. and Puerto Rico (with coverage limitations).

SOURCE Kia Motors America

Kia Sorrento (2013)

The Kia Sorento (2013)Published: 28th September 2012

The face lifted seven-seater 2013 Kia Sorrento will go on sale in December 2012, with a new 2.4 litre direct-injection petrol engine being amongst the enhancements.

The revised Kia Sorrento is available with one petrol engine and two turbo diesel units – the petrol unit is a 2.4 litre Theta II GDI engine which produces 192 PS and 242 Nm of torque. On the combined cycle the fuel consumption is recorded as 32 mpg.

Our choice would be the 2.2 litre diesel engine which produces 197 PS and 436 Nm of torque, so not only is it more powerful than the petrol unit, it is quicker and fuel consumption is more respectable. The CO2 emissions are lower at 153 g/km compared to 202 g/km of the petrol unit.

There is a smaller 150 PS 2.0 litre diesel that produces 382 Nm of torque with CO2 emissions of 159 g/km, there seems to be little benefit in it over the 2.2 engine with fuel consumption being higher at 46 mpg to the 2.2’s 49 mpg.

The 2.4 GDI and 2.TCI are available with either a six-speed manual or automatic gearbox, where the 2.0 TCI is only available with a 6-speed manual transmission. All engines are available with either 2WD or 4WD depending on the model.

The 4WD drivetrain is an 'on demand' system that delivers 100 per cent of engine torque to the front wheels during routine city and highway driving. Whenever a front wheel loses grip up to 50 per cent of the torque is automatically transferred to the rear wheels. In severely slippery conditions the driver can select Lock Mode, which delivers 50 per cent of torque to each axle.

Access to the cabin has been improved by the 10 mm lower ride height. The cabin floor has also been lowered, increasing legroom by 30 mm (second row) and 9 mm (third row).

There have been a number of enhancements to both the interior and exterior - New front and rear bumpers now feature unconventional upright fog lights. There is a new front grille and headlamps with LED positioning lights, and a new tailgate with reshaped LED combination lamps. Depending on model, the Sorento's updated styling is completed with 17-, 18- or new 19-inch alloy wheels.

On the inside there are more soft-touch surfaces - with a satin chrome finish for the door handles, air-vent surrounds and switches - plus a new LCD instrument cluster, new centre stack with seven-inch LCD display screen and a new centre console featuring (on automatic transmission models), a straight-gate selector with a leather-booted lever.

Kia have spent a lot of time with revisions to the bodyshell ensure it meets the latest official crash test standards, the existing Sorento was awarded a five-star Euro NCAP safety rating – the new model promises to improve on this, especially as the tests are now more stringent – a key feature being that the bodyshell’s rigidity has been increased by 18 per cent.

The revised Kia Sorento will be equipped with up to six front, side and curtain airbags. All Sorentos will be fitted with an active bonnet which raises the rear edge during a collision to reduce the severity of pedestrian injury.

Active safety technologies available will include ESC (electronic stability control), VSM (vehicle stability management), a reversing safety camera mounted on the tailgate with a 130-degree wide-angle lens, HID Xenon headlamps and HAC (hill-start assist control), which prevents slip-back when pulling away on inclines.