Kia has teased the U.S. spec Sorento ahead
of its premiere on September 22. Interestingly, these two teasers preview an
off-road-oriented model dubbed the X-Line. The first of the teaser images is
grainy but shows off the side profile of the Sorento X-Line, while also
showcasing a unique shade of green. The key parts of the X-Line spec
include black wheels and black roof rails.
The second teaser image gives us an
up-close look at the X-Line badge on the front quarter panel. Kia has already
showcased the new Sorento in various markets around the world, including
Europe, the UK, and Australia. For the most part, the SUV will look exactly the
same in the U.S., albeit for the necessary inclusion of the U.S. style turn
signals.
The new Sorento has a much more angular
appearance than the previous-generation model and an improved road presence.
The front is particularly striking thanks to a tiger-nose grille and sharp
headlights with incorporated LED daytime running lights.
At least two powertrains will be offered
in the United States. The first is set to be Kia’s new Smartstream hybrid that
features a 1.6-liter turbocharged petrol four-cylinder working alongside a 44.2
kW electric motor and a 1.49 kWh lithium-ion polymer battery pack. This unit is
good for 227 hp and 350 Nm of torque and is coupled to a six-speed
automatic transmission. U.S. buyers will also have the option of a 2.5-liter
T-GDi with 277 hp and 421 Nm of torque, mated to an eight-speed dual-clutch
transmission. A naturally-aspirated engine might also be offered.
