Kia Philippines is unwrapping an early Christmas gift for its loyal customers: the fourth generation Sorento midsize SUV, following its debut in North America last year. Its arrival coincides with Kia’s relaunch in our market, accompanied by the carmaker’s new corporate logo.
The 2022 Kia Sorento is now available in the Philippines
The 2022 Sorento is now built on the new N3 platform, also used by its Carnival and Sportage stablemates as well as the Santa Cruz and Staria from Hyundai. While this gives the new model bigger dimensions than before, Kia says the third-generation chassis is lighter, more flexible in configuration, brings more efficient air flow, and places a greater emphasis on safety.
Exterior
The new Sorento stands 4,810mm long, 1,900mm wide, and 1,700mm high. While these are relatively marginal increases from the outgoing model, the biggest change is the 2,815mm wheelbase, promising improved passenger and cargo space.
LED headlamps with eyeline DRLs on the more angular-looking fascia flank the updated tiger-nose grille. Meanwhile, the fog lamps are now also LEDs, and have been relocated from the corners of the front bumper to above the front skid plate.
Updated proportions define the fourth-generation midsize crossover
Prominent shoulder lines along the profile show off the vehicle’s visual muscle, accentuated by gloss black body cladding and black chrome window surrounds. A distinctive dynamic wave shape can be seen at the base of the C-pillar. Offered on the 2022 Sorento is a smart power liftgate, surrounded by upright LED rear combination lamps.
Interior
All occupants are surrounded by a redesigned cabin with leather and metal finishing. A new dashboard design incorporates vertical air vents that convey visual presence. This is complemented by new interior door panel trim and enlarged handles that provide ease of use.
The interior has been redesigned for more comfort and to give a stronger presence
Three-row seating continues to be standard on the new Sorento, with the second-row seats featuring power-adjustable backrests. Front occupants get ventilated thrones with memory function on the power seat adjustment. Dual-zone automatic climate control cools down the cabin even as temperatures soar outside.
Tech & Safety
The analog instrument cluster on the old model makes way for a new 12.3-inch LCD instrument cluster, which displays essential driving information in full color. Onboard entertainment is courtesy of an 8-inch touchscreen audio head unit that comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support, linked to a six-speaker system. There’s also wireless charging for compatible handsets.
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard on the 8-inch head unit
Safety is another aspect that the 2022 Sorento upgrades. A 360-degree Surround View Camera system comes with a Blind Spot View Monitor, Rear and Cross Forward Collision Avoidance Assist, and Lane Keeping and Following Assist. Front and rear proximity sensors guide parking in small spaces.
Engine & Drivetrain
Powering the new Sorento is a 2.2-liter SmartStream diesel engine with variable geometry turbo that generates 200 hp and 441 Nm of torque.
The Sorento's 2.2-liter SmartStream turbodiesel engine
This is paired with a SmartStream 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission that channels power to the front wheels. Four drive modes comprising Comfort, Eco, Sport, and Smart are within reach of drivers to adapt to different conditions. Of note, Kia PH is offering the all-new Sorento in 4x2 configuration.
Pricing
Kia Philippines is now accepting reservations for the 2022 Sorento
Kia Philippines is offering the 2022 Sorento in two trim levels. The base EX is priced at Php 2.398 million and arrives in January 2022, while the upper-spec SX carries a sticker price of Php 2.588 million and is available at launch. Kia Philippines is now accepting reservations for the 2022 Sorento.
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