A re-designed 2016 Kia Sorento was unveiled at the Los Angeles International Auto Show, taking Kia’s top-of the range crossover SUV up in size and available feature content. Oh, and it has an all new look to go with it.
With a 3” longer wheelbase now at 109.4”, Kia has given the Sorento more interior room, which was well needed given its three-row seat package offering. With its new foot print comes an evolution of the brand’s ever sharp design DNA.
And new aggressively styled front clip features narrower headlights than before and a grill and fascia ensemble that is not far kin from the all-new 2015 Kia Sedona mini-van. Generous availability of LED lighting accents abound front and rear.
A new engine is offered for 2016 offering a blend of four-cylinder efficiency and six-cylinder power. The new 2.0 liter turbocharged four-cylinder offers up 240 horsepower and while EPA estimates aren’t out yet, should do well for fuel economy.
Standard is a 2.4 liter four-cylinder engine with 185 horsepower and optional is a 3.3 liter V6 offering a healthy 290 horsepower and the ability to tow up to 5,000 lbs. All three engines come with a six-speed automatic transmission and are available in both front and all-wheel drive.
The underpinning platform is not 100% new but features several updates including revised front and rear suspension geometry. A new “H” shaped front sub-frame with four-point bushing mounts helps to refine the steering feel and ride.
There’s also an optional rack-mounted motor driven power steering which has direct mounting of the electric motor on the steering rack. Kia didn’t elaborate much on this, saying only it enhances steering response and improves handling. More on that when we get the chance to query them.
Rear suspension gets improved wheel travel, revised bushings, and vertical mounted shocks to smooth out the noise, vibration and harshness.
The interior is all-new with an upgrade in material quality across the board. The dash has a decidely more horizontal design layout and looks more premium in its presentation.
Along with a plethora of luxury options, the Sorento gets a second-generation panoramic sunroof and upgraded Nappa leather seating surfaces, similar to those found the heady Kia K900.
Due to the increase in wheelbase, interior volume gets better in the key areas of rear seat leg room for both second and third rows. Cargo space behind those seats increases as well.
For those wanting the latest driver aid technology, the Sorento will have available goodies like forward collision warning, radar cruise control, blind spot detection with rear cross traffic and a handy surround view monitor.
Pricing and EPA fuel economy specs will be announced closer to 2016 Kia Sorento’s launch date next year. For a more in-depth review and photo gallery see our report on ActivityVehicle.com.