Refreshed 2024 Kia Sorento Unveiled at LAAS: The New Face of Adventure and Technology

The 2024 Kia Sorento, presented at the Los Angeles Auto Show earlier this month, marks a refresh for the midsize SUV. The new Sorento features an updated exterior design, new trims, and a wealth of new safety and connectivity technology inside. This latest refresh preserves everything current owners love about their Sorento including class-leading performance and exceptional versatility, while improving the connected experience and guaranteeing complete peace of mind on the road. Let’s dive into the Sorento’s design updates, new variant offerings, and technological advancements, offering an in-depth look at what sets the 2024 model apart in its segment.

Exterior and Interior Design Enhancements

The 2024 Sorento showcases a robust exterior design, influenced by Kia’s “Opposites United” philosophy and “Bold for Nature” concept. The front hood is more upright, with squared-off edges reminiscent of the Telluride. Its daytime running lights, inspired by the Telluride, have been adapted for a modern look. The rear features vertical taillamps, also a nod to the Telluride. Drawing from the EV9, the Sorento features a broad and rectangular front grille, with vertically stacked LED projector headlamps, and Star Map lighting elements adding a futuristic touch. The front and lower bumpers include a wider skid plate for a rugged appeal.

Inside, the Sorento’s cabin presents a streamlined and modern aesthetic, with a focus on horizontal features like air vents and controls. A panoramic curved display integrates dual 12.3-inch screens, with an optional layout including a 4.3-inch TFT and 12.3-inch screen standard. The exterior colour options now include Midnight Lake Blue and Dawning Red, while the upcoming HEV and PHEV models will feature an optional Dust Blue interior.

X-Line and X-Pro Variants for Enhanced Outdoor Capability

The Sorento X-Line offers additional rugged features such as a center-locking differential, bridge-type roof rack, special front and rear bumpers, and 20-inch gloss black wheels. The X-Pro variant is tailored for more adventurous driving with 17-inch wheels, BF Goodrich all-terrain tires, and a towing capacity of up to 4,000 lbs. Both X-Line and X-Pro feature unique exterior and interior emblems and colour options, including Jungle Green and Roadrider Brown.

Advanced Technology Integration

The 2024 Sorento follows the EV9 in adopting Kia’s next-generation Connected Car Navigation Cockpit (ccNC) system, which offers enhanced processing speed and fidelity. It includes Quick Controls accessible via screen swipe and is equipped for over-the-air updates. USB-C ports and wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are standard across all trims. The Sorento also introduces an ultrawideband-based Digital Key 2.0, compatible with certain Apple and Samsung devices, allowing users to lock, unlock, and drive the vehicle using their smartphone.

Kia’s Advanced Driver Assistance Systems feature 10 standard ADAS features, including an upgraded Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist and Lane Keeping Assist. Additional tech includes Smart Cruise Control-Machine Learning, Highway Driving Assist 2 with automatic lane change, Digital Camera Mirror, and Surround-View Monitor.

Performance and Drivetrain

The 2024 Sorento maintains consistent performance with its standard 2.5-litre I-4 GDI engine in the LX trim, producing 191 horsepower. Upper trims, including the X-Line and X-Pro, feature a 2.5-litre turbocharged I-4 GDI engine with 281 horsepower. The vehicle comes standard with active on-demand all-wheel drive, enhancing stability and handling dynamics.

In conclusion, the 2024 Kia Sorento brings significant updates to its design, technology, and performance capabilities. The new X-Line and X-Pro variants cater to outdoor enthusiasts, while technological advancements enhance the overall driving experience. The Sorento continues to offer a strong option in the competitive midsize SUV market.