The 2024 Kia Sorento, a prominent player in the mid-size SUV segment, introduces key updates to enhance its appeal. These changes are particularly notable in its exterior and interior design, technology offerings, and the introduction of a new off-road-focused trim level.
Overview of the 2024 Model
This model retains its familiar 2.5-litre turbocharged and nonturbo engines, ensuring continuity in performance. However, it differentiates itself with a comprehensive facelift and improved features. The 2024 model year will see these updates, while the hybrid versions are slated for a facelift in the 2025 model year.
Detailed Exterior Upgrades
- Front Design Changes: The front end of the Sorento has been refreshed with new headlights and a more prominent grille, giving it a more contemporary and assertive appearance.
- Rear Design Tweaks: At the rear, the SUV flaunts modernized taillights that complement the overall design language.
- New Wheel Designs: Alongside these changes, the Sorento comes with new wheel designs, offering a refreshed look and feel.
- Color Additions: Two new colors, Midnight Lake Blue and Dawning Red, have been added, expanding the palette for potential buyers.
Interior Enhancements
- Infotainment System: The centerpiece of the interior upgrades is the new infotainment system. It comes with a larger screen and updated software, featuring intuitive menus and enhanced connectivity options, including over-the-air updates.
- Standard Tech Features: Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are now standard across all trims, ensuring seamless smartphone integration.
- Digital Gauge Cluster: Higher trim levels boast a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster screen, offering a high-tech feel to the driver's cockpit. The lower trims maintain a 4.3-inch display, ensuring essential information is still easily accessible.
The New X-Pro Trim
- Focus on Off-Road: The X-Pro trim is a significant addition for off-road enthusiasts. It includes 17-inch wheels with rugged all-terrain tires, enhancing its capability on diverse terrains.
- Additional Off-Road Features: Complementing these are the X-Line's existing features like the roof rack and skid plates, making the X-Pro a comprehensive package for adventure seekers.
- Exclusive Availability: This trim is available only with the SX-P model, positioning it as a premium, adventure-ready option.
Powertrain and Performance
- Engine Options: The standard engine remains the 191-hp 2.5-litre inline-four, suitable for everyday driving needs. For more power, the 281-hp turbocharged 2.5-litre inline-four engine offers an enhanced driving experience.
- Transmission and Drive Options: Both engines come with an eight-speed transmission, with the option of front-wheel or all-wheel drive, catering to different driving preferences and conditions.
Upcoming Hybrid Models
- Delayed Facelift for Hybrids: The hybrid and plug-in hybrid models will follow the facelift in the 2025 model year. Until then, they continue with the current design and features.
- Hybrid Powertrains: These models will retain the turbocharged 1.6-litre inline-four engine. The PHEV variant stands out with its larger battery and more potent electric motor, offering an electric range of approximately 51 kilometers.
In summary, the 2024 Kia Sorento marks a significant step in its evolution, blending familiar strengths with new enhancements. The introduction of the X-Pro trim adds a rugged dimension to its appeal, while the exterior and interior updates provide a more modern and tech-forward experience. The continuity in powertrain options ensures that the Sorento remains a reliable choice, while the upcoming hybrid models promise to add an eco-friendly dimension to its lineup. This blend of reliability, innovation, and versatility makes the 2024 Sorento a noteworthy contender in the competitive SUV market, catering to a range of consumer needs and preferences.