News

Bolstering the Bookcase

Tuesday 6th May 2008

In first-generation format, the Kia Sorento gathered itself a bookcase full of awards from various establishments, both here and across the Atlantic. Add to that J D Power Survey’s approval and there must have been a large amount of back-slapping in Korea. Such is the nature of the modern marketplace, though, that if you spend too long enjoying the fruits of your ingenuity, next year your bookcase is bare. So, two years ago a revised Sorento appeared to keep the brand moving along.

To begin with it was a case of spot-the-difference, but stand this model side-by-side with the former and the improvements become obvious. Revisions seem to have centred on creating a more European flavour for Kia’s largest SUV. Overall, it works. Although using the same body panels as the original car, the newer model gains front and rear bumpers and body mouldings. These increase the overall length by 20mm.

Also improved for this edition is the grille, it’s now a three slatted affair, instead of the single that adorned the previous model. The headlamps, too, have benefited from a touch of cosmetic work. Drawing these improvements together and noting the reduction in wheel-rim size to accommodate larger tyres, Kia clearly wants the Sorento to be viewed as a serious, premium workhorse, capable of tackling everything from towing horseboxes to climbing steep inclines.

To aid these hefty workloads, improvements to the Sorento move beyond the cosmetic and into the mechanical. First and foremost, the 2.5-litre turbocharged common-rail diesel engine has seen an increase in output. Now fitted with an electricallyactuated variable geometry turbo-charger for more flexible performance, the engine gains 21 per cent more power. These gains help reduce the 0-60mph time by 1.7 seconds, while the improvement in power has minimal impact on combined fuel consumption, at 35.8mpg.

The 3.3-litre V6 petrol engine also delivers improved performance. Automatic transmission is also available as a £1,100 option on the diesel.

Modifications

And, as if to prove these modifications were worthwhile along comes another award. The Kia Sorento recently claimed a third consecutive victory in the headline category of The Caravan Club’s Towcar of the Year Awards 2008. It took the crown of the heavyweight category ‘All-wheeldrive vehicles more than 1,800kg’, beating off 10 rivals, which included a number of premium brands, to take the category win for the third year in a row.

The ladder-frame chassis and dual-frame body construction of the original Sorento remain, but for this latest version, Kia has modified the springs and dampers of the fully-independent suspension to offer a smoother ride. Although the expected bodyroll remains, travel at motorway speeds is pleasant enough and intrusion from exterior noises well subdued. The cabin itself is both well equipped and bright.

All-round visibility is good, aided by the high seating position. Controls on the driver’s seat enable a good deal of adjustment, including extra height.

The wing mirrors are big enough to ensure a decent rear view, a vital feature as this is a very large vehicle. Parking sensors in a car of this size are a boon and are available as an option. Important information such as fuel consumption and a compass, should you be lost offroad in Leicestershire, is available via a readout set into the roof just behind the rearview mirror. This console also provides a home for two sunglasses holders.

The centre console itself houses dual-climate controls, a JVC sound system with an auxiliary function for connecting MP3 players and the all important cup holders.

Three adults seated on the 60/40 spilt rear seat should not find a lengthy journey too taxing and will certainly benefit from the ample shoulder and headroom. ESP stability control, active head restraints, front seat-belt pretensioners and a passenger airbag cut-off switch are available.

ESP automatically corrects potential skids by braking one or more wheels and/or reducing engine power, while active head restraints protect against whiplash. For those taking their first steps into the large SUV market, the Sorento offers a value-formoney alternative.

Published Friday 25th April 2008, Leicester Mercury