Small changes can make a big difference and Kia is showing that with the facelifted Sorento
November 16, 2023 at 14:05
The Los Angeles Auto Show continues as Kia has taken the wraps off the 2024 Sorento.
Set to go on sale early next year, the facelifted crossover adopts a more adventurous Opposites United design that closely echoes the Korean variant. However, there’s one big change and that’s the amber daytime running lights which are a bit much.
Putting them aside, the crossover sports an all-new front end that is more muscular and athletic. It combines an expressive grille with new vertical headlights and a “wider skid plate garnish for extra rugged appeal.”
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Kia didn’t mention many other changes, but the crossover has been outfitted with a modified rear bumper and new taillights that are now connected. Buyers will also find a revised color palette that includes Dawning Red and Midnight Lake Blue.
More: 2025 Kia Carnival Detailed In Korea, New 1.6-Liter Turbo Hybrid Has 242 HP
Moving inside, there’s a new dashboard and updated switchgear. They’re joined by a newly available panoramic curved display, which consists of a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.3-inch infotainment. The latter runs a new operating system, which promises to provide faster responses as well as over-the-air updates.
Other highlights include digital key technology, a digital rearview mirror, and an upgraded Forward Collision Avoidance Assist system. Speaking of the latter, other driver assistance systems include Lane Keeping Assist, Lane Following Assist, and Highway Driving Assist 2. Kia also said we can expect a Smart Cruise Control system with Machine Learning, which aims to replicate your acceleration and braking style.
Besides the usual styling and equipment tweaks, the 2024 Sorento gains a new X-Pro variant that features 17-inch wheels wrapped in BF Goodrich all-terrain tires. It builds on the X-Line trim, which has unique bumpers, a gloss black grille, a bridge-like roof rack, and a center-locking differential. Buyers will also find a classy cabin with leather seats, open pore wood trim, and “color combinations in new Olive Brown and Sage hues.”
Under the hood, there are naturally aspirated and turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engines. The former produces 191 hp (142 kW / 194 PS) and 181 lb-ft (245 Nm) of torque, while the latter develops 281 hp (210 kW / 285 PS) and 311 lb-ft (421 Nm).
They’re paired to a traditional eight-speed automatic or an eight-speed dual-clutch gearbox. Customers can also get an optional all-wheel drive system.
For the 2025 model year, the Sorento Hybrid and Plug-In Hybrid will adopt the new design. We’ll learn more about them next year, but their powertrains may carryover like in the standard model.