Kia Sorento gets mid-life refresh with new front end
Words: Harrison Wade | Photos: Kia
Kia has unveiled new images and information regarding the mid-life refresh of its fourth-generation Sorento, which cops new design language and an updated interior. International model specification is expected to be released soon.
The new model was shown off in a short release on the carmaker’s Korean website, detailing a plethora of updates made to the SUV.
You’ll immediately notice that the front end has been restyled with Kia’s ‘Opposites United’ design language in mind, the same philosophy used to style the recently-revealed fully electric EV9 SUV.
The Sorento now wears a set of vertically-arranged headlights which feature ‘signature star map lighting’ daytime running lights alongside a restyled radiator grille and front bumper.
At the back, the taillights have adopted a similar star map motif as seen on the headlights, while the rear bumper has been simplified thanks to a new lower skid plate.
Changes to the interior see the departure of the infotainment system’s manual buttons and dials in favour of digital alternatives, those of which can be accessed via a 12.3-inch curved panoramic display running on Kia’s next-generation software.
The air-conditioning controls have also been slimmed down and sit below a pair of narrow vents in the middle of the dashboard. A new fingerprint authentication system features on the centre console, allowing owners to start their car, make a payment, or enable valet mode securely.
Three new exterior colours will be offered on the updated Sorento, including Interstellar Gray, Cityscape Green, and Volcanic Sand Brown. A trio of interior finishes are also available, including a new black/olive brown combination.
Kia says the updated Sorento will be released in Korea with petrol, diesel, and hybrid power in mid-August 2023. A two-wheel drive hybrid is expected to follow once certification has been completed.
As for the model’s New Zealand arrival, more information is expected to be released in the coming weeks alongside local pricing and specification.
