2021 Kia Sorento 7-seater SUV – Could Rival Toyota Fortuner in India
The 2021 Kia Sorento was scheduled to be unveiled at the 2020 Geneva International Motor Show; however, the event was cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic. The company has now released new images and details of the new Sorento, which is expected to be launched in the global markets in the mid-2020.
In terms of styling, the 2021 Kia Sorento shares design cues from the latest Kia products including the Seltos. Design highlights include the signature ‘Tiger Nose’ grille with integrated full-LED headlamps, aggressive bumpers and silver treatment all around the front. It is based on the new third-generation N3 platform, which will also underpin the next-gen Kia Carnival. Also See – Kia Carnival Review
Inside the cabin, the 2021 Kia Sorento gets a large 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system with modern connectivity solutions. Adding to it, the SUV gets an advanced 12.3-inch digital instrument console, 12-speaker Bose surround audio, ambient lighting, Nappa leather and heated seats. The Sorento also gets blind-spot warning via camera and multi-collision brake system.
The new Sorento will serve as the brand’s flagship model in some markets where the premium Kia Telluride is not in sale. In terms of dimensions, the new 2021 Kia Sorento is 10mm longer and the wheelbase has been raised by 35mm. Since the Carnival is gaining huge response, Kia could bring the Sorento SUV in India. If it launch in India, the new SUV will take on the likes of the Toyota Fortuner, Ford Endeavour, Mahindra Alturas G4 and the Skoda Kodiaq.
The 2021 Kia Sorento is available with a wide range of engines. It is powered by a 2.2-litre 4-cylinder diesel engine that churns out 198bhp of power and 440Nm of torque. This is the same engine that powers the Carnival in India. Instead of the 8-speed torque convertor, the Sorento gets an 8-speed wet-plate DCT.
The SUV also gets hybrid powertrain, which includes 1.6L 4-cylinder petrol engine, a 59bhp electric motor and a 1.5kWh battery. The combined power output is 227bhp and 350Nm. The company will also launch a 262bhp, plug-in hybrid version at a later stage.
