When Kia introduced their third generation Sorrento SUV two years ago, it received many plaudits. Interestingly, this seven-seater is only the tenth best-seller in a large SUV segment that is dominated by Toyota’s Kluger and the more hard-nosed Prado SUV. Kia have just upgraded the Sorrento with minor exterior design elements, a higher and longer body with more interior room, a new eight-speed automatic with four drive modes, replacing the old six-speeder, a new larger capacity 3.5 litre V6 engine, a new multi-media cluster incorporating Apple car play and Android auto, a more advanced cruise control and new safety elements like autonomous emergency braking. Prices rise from 500 to $2000 depending on model- the entry 3.5 V6 2WD petrol Sorrento Si now starts from $42,990, the entry 2.2 four-cylinder 4WD diesel Si from $45,490. I’m yet to drive the new model but will report on it in coming weeks.

Kia is one of the success stories this year with sales up 30.8 percent with its seven-year unlimited kilometer warranty, 7-year capped price servicing and 7-year roadside assistance finding real favour with the buying public. Sorrento sales have risen by a smaller 15.5 percent and despite receiving many awards it lags behind its competition. Certainly, the revised styling on this latest version has added appeal with the addition of an 8-speed gearbox and improved ride and handling tune has no doubt added to its driving appeal. I’m David Berthon.

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