► New Sorento GT-Line
► Semi-sporty trim spec
► On show at Frankfurt 2017
Propping up Kia’s stand at the 2017 Frankfurt motor show along with the new semi-SUV Picanto X-Line is the fresher-faced Sorento SUV.
The full-sized seven-seater gets a few visual updates, including new wheels, bumpers, lights and a more vibrant colour palette – plus this new range-topping GT-Line trim level.
What’s new?
To look at, nothing dramatic style-wise, with the usual set of changes including revised bumpers at both ends of the car, tweaked lights and a fresh set of colours. There are also new designs for the alloy wheels.
Inside it’s more minimal, with a new steering wheel and instrument cluster with some new tech to keep drivers and passengers entertained. There’s also a selection of new seat and trim choices across the range.
GT-Line tops the range
In line with other Kia models (Picanto, Cee’d and Sportage), the Sorento can now be specified in sporty GT-Line trim.
This is lifted slightly by its four-lamp LED fog lights, red brake calipers and stripes.
We love the quilted leather seats with contrast stitching to complete the look, which seem to be a bit of a design fashion at this year’s Frankfurt show.
What about the tech?
Kia has lavished plenty of equipment on the Sorento, with a big 8.0-inch touchscreen media system with all your usual connectivity options from Apple and Android, Connected Services for online searches and upgrades for the sound system.
Safety kit has been enhanced as well, offering a driver attention warning system, lane-departure warning, high beam assist and full LED headlamps.
Any changes under the bonnet?
A new automatic gearbox is the big news here, with eight speeds on offer compared to the old ‘box’s six ratios. It’s available with the existing 2.2-litre diesel engine, having been engineered in-house, and comes with a choice of driving modes: Eco, Comfort, Sport and Smart.
You can probably guess what the first three do, while leaving it in Smart will let the car make its mind up what it should be doing. In short, it should probably be called Auto as per many other systems.
This new gearbox reduces CO2 emissions for 2.2 CRDI models to 159g/km, down from 172g/km.
Otherwise, it’s business as usual with a manual gearbox also available for the 197bhp 2.2 CRDi unit; the old six-speed auto is your only option for the 182bhp 2.0 CRDI; and a 2.4 GDI petrol with 185bhp is also on offer with the six-speed self-shifter.
When can I buy one?
Towards the end of 2017, following its show debut at Frankfurt.
Check out our Kia Sorento review here