Head to the LA Auto Show and see what Kia has going on.
Just when I thought the Kia Stinger would be the only car I could ever want, the 2019 Kia Sorento SUV makes an appearance and shatters my plans. The refreshed Sorento was unveiled just in time for the Los Angeles International Auto Show, alongside a gorgeous orange Stinger GT2 and the new 2018 Niro Plug-In Hybrid.
I plan on diving deeper into the Niro Plug-In Hybrid over the next couple weeks, but for now here’s what you need to know about the 2019 Sorento.
“In the highly-competitive crossover category, the Sorento is a clear example of how world-class design and craftsmanship are executed. Our popular utility now ups its game even further with enhancements in styling, packaging and content, making it even more attractive to shoppers seeking a premium level 3-row SUV.”
– Orth Hedrick, vice president, product planning, KMA
For those familiar with the Sorento SUV will love the numerous interior and exterior upgrades the 2019 refresh offers. Like for example how its 3.3-liter V6 has been paired with a new 8-speed automatic transmission and revised 6-speed gearbox for an even better driving experience.
A Stunning Exterior
The Sorento’s beautifully rugged redesign from 2016 has been retained for the 2019 model with a few subtle, yet welcomed changes. Starting from the front, the facelift features a revised radiator grille rocking a new headlamp configuration. For an added bonus, the SX and SXL trims offer full-LED lighting. As for the crossover’s ice cube-style foglamps, they’ve been redesigned with projection bulbs for the EX and SX trims, while SXL is upgraded with more distinctive LEDs. Along with the new headlamps, the Sorento’s bumper has been re-sculpted with a new aggressive design. The rear fascia of the SUV has also been enhanced with a new bumper design, sleeker taillamps (LED bulbs for EX trim and higher), revised liftgate and a sportier muffler tip.
Interior
Kia has set new standards on their crossover with the addition of 50/50 third-row folding seats on all trims, along with the standard 40/20/40 second-row folding seats, proving space for up to seven passengers. Subtle details that by them self seem small, but together adds an all-around attractive upgrade, is the addition of a more tactile steering wheel, a new shifter knob, and alternations to the air vents and the console design. Adding to the luxury feel, also available are heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, 14-way power driver and 8-way power passenger seats. Especially added for the 2019 model, Sorento now offers 2-way powered lumbar support for the front passenger on SX and SXL trims.
I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the interior offering gorgeous premium Nappa leather trim seating surfaces (similar to what the Stinger offers), as well the dual-zone HVAC and panoramic sunroof, as well as the gorgeous premium Nappa leather trim seating surfaces. Newly available interior/seat colors are Mahogany and Terracotta for the SX and SXL trims, respectively. And updated interior accent trims are standard visual enhancements across all trim levels.
Tech and Audio
The inside features a newly-added Driver Assistance System, Harman Kardon-audio with QuantumLogic, and the support of wireless charging for all capable smartphones. Additionally, all Sorento trims now come standard with 7-passenger and 3-row seating; perfect for long trips or for busy families always on the go.
The 2019 Sorento takes on Hell’s Revenge
It wouldn’t be a Kia unveiling without something cool to show-off. During the presentation, Kia released the video you see below of the new 2019 Sorento taking on Hell’s Revenge. The very same SUV from the video was also brought to the show, dirt and all.
Full-disclosure: I’m a Kia partner. All opinions 100% are my own.
