The new Kia Sorento is inbound, but before it lands on our shores, it will have to make its grand debut at the 2020 Geneva International Motor Show first in March. The Korean automaker has just announced a few details on the new Sorento’s powertrain and platform.
Starting with the latter of the two. The new Sorento will be based on Kia’s new platform which has a compact engine bay structure, shorter overhangs and a longer wheelbase. In fact, Kia says the overall length has been extended by 10mm more than its predecessor, while the wheelbase is up 35mm to 2,815mm.
While the first-generation Sorento was constructed on a body-on-frame chassis, the second-gen model dropped that in favour of a monocoque structure and naturally marked the next big step forward for the model. Kia’s latest platform is an evolution of that step forward.
In terms of powertrain, the marque says the new platform will accommodate the new SmartStream turbo hybrid powertrain. The electrified power source combines a 1.6-litre turbocharged direct injection (T-GDI) petrol engine with a 44.2kW electric motor that’s fed by 1.49kWh lithium-ion battery pack. The total system output is rated at 169kW and 350Nm.
There is also a diesel engine on the ticket. The four-cylinder SmartStream oil burner measures 2.2-litres in displacement and is mated to Kia’s new 8-speed wet dual-clutch gearbox which offers up smoother shifts and enhanced efficiency (and hopefully reliability) when compared to dry clutch units. This motor chucks out 149kW and 440Nm.
The last motor on offer is a 2.5-litre T-GDI unit with 207kW and 421Nm, and is matched up to the same 8-speed dual-clutch transmission as the other unit. What’s interesting about this engine – according to Kia – is that it combines both direct injection and multi-point injection technology, enabling it to subtly adapt its combustion cycle at different engine speeds to enhance performance and efficiency in everyday use.
Furthermore, the new Sorento will get driver-assist tech such as the Multi-Collision Brake system which reduces the severity of secondary collisions in the event of a multi-car pile-up. The system works in tandem with the airbags including the ones in the front seat centre, sides, and knees. Also available is the remote smartphone Surround View Monitor. This allows owners to check the vehicle’s surroundings with their smartphone. Whatever.
The new Kia Sorento will be making its debut at the 2020 Geneva International Motor Show, happening from early March.
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