The new 2013 Kia Sorento European Version builds on the sophistication, refinement, design and quality of the outgoing model while preserving the air of solidity and safety that has always been one of its greatest attributes.
2013 Kia Sorento European Version Exterior. The Kia Flex-Steer system, which allows the driver to choose between Normal, Sport and Comfort levels of assistance according to where and how the car is being driven, is fitted to the range-topping ‘KX-3′ model. The 18-inch alloy wheels which are standard on’ KX-3′ are now 7.5 inches rather than 7 inches wide, increasing the contact patch on the road for greater traction and turning capability.
The new front end has an even stronger but more modern appearance, with a simple moulding and greater body-coloured areas – including the new bumpers, which help to emphasise the high-tech detailing of the latest lamp units. Careful attention to surface detailing has reduced aerodynamic drag. All models now have projection headlights and LED daytime running lamps.
2013 Kia Sorento European Version Interior. The new Kia Sorento also has Electronic Stability Control (ESC) featuring Downhill Brake Control (DBC). Vehicle Stability Management (VSM) connects to the ESC and steering system to automatically correct any tendency to under steer or over steer by braking individual wheels, reducing engine torque or both. DBC maintains a steady speed of 5mph on steep descents. There is also Hill-start Assist Control (HAC) to prevent wheel-spin or roll-back when setting off on steep or slippery upslopes. Six airbags (twin front, side and side curtains) are standard, as are active front headrests that prevent or minimise whiplash injuries should the Sorento be hit from behind. There are also front seatbelt pre-tensioners and load limiters.
2013 Kia Sorento European Version Engines and Transmissions. The new Kia Sorento EU-Version is powered by a revised version of Kia’s 2.2-litre CRDi turbodiesel engine, driving all four wheels via a six-speed manual gearbox or the company’s’ six-speed automatic. A new exhaust-gas recirculation system has helped New Sorento achieve class-leading fuel economy and CO2 emissions of 47.9 mpg and 155 g/km (manual) – improvements of 5.7 mpg and 22 g/km over the outgoing model, which in turn rewards buyers with a saving of £155 in the first year’s road tax (VED). The figures for New Sorento with the six-speed automatic transmission – still one of only a few to be completely designed, engineered and built in-house in the global auto industry – are 42.2 mpg and 175 g/km with the 17-inch wheels fitted to the majority of models, or 41.5 mpg and 178 g/km for KX-3 with 18-inch wheels. These represent reductions of up to 4 mpg and 19 g/km. Automatic versions of New Sorento have Kia’s Active ECO feature which adjusts the operation of the engine and transmission to promote maximum fuel economy.
The 2.2-litre CRDi engine develops 194 bhp at 3,800 rpm and 422 Nm of torque from just 1,800 rpm, endowing New Kia Sorento with outstanding driveability on- and off-road. New Sorento accelerates from 0-60 mph in 9.4 seconds (manual) or 9.5 seconds (auto), and all versions have a top speed of 118 mph.
