The South African SUV segment has a new benchmark. With the arrival of the refreshed Kia Sorento, Kia South Africa reaffirms its commitment to bold design, cutting-edge technology, and premium comfort—redefining what local customers can expect from a family-focused large SUV.
Combining a confident new exterior, a tech-rich interior, and go-anywhere capability with award-winning safety and efficiency, the latest-generation Sorento is a masterclass in modern SUV evolution.
A Refined Powerhouse, Built for the Journey
Under the bonnet, the new Sorento houses a potent 2.2-litre turbodiesel engine, delivering 148kW and 440Nm of torque—ensuring confident overtaking and smooth towing performance. Mated to Kia’s sophisticated 8-speed wet double-clutch transmission (8DCT), the Sorento promises seamless gear changes and notable fuel efficiency. Available in both front- and all-wheel drive, it’s as adept on gravel as it is on Gauteng’s urban highways.
With pricing starting at R999,995 and topped by the all-wheel-drive SXL at R1,299,995, the Sorento offers exceptional value when matched with its comprehensive 6-year/90,000km full maintenance plan.
Design That Commands Attention
The latest Sorento wears Kia’s ‘Opposites United’ design philosophy with pride—specifically, the ‘Bold for Nature’ pillar. Sculpted lines, vertical LED lighting signatures, and a newly designed 3D-mesh grille exude power and confidence. The redesigned hood adds volume and a more muscular profile, while the vertical front and rear light arrangements add visual harmony and modernity.
Standard across the range are 20-inch alloy wheels, sleek LED headlamps with integrated fog lights, and an imposing skid plate—asserting the Sorento’s adventurous intentions. At the rear, refreshed taillight clusters with distinctive vertical star map graphics ensure that even the last glance is memorable.
A Cabin That Blends Comfort, Technology, and Sustainability
Step inside and you’re greeted by a spacious, premium cabin that balances family practicality with high-end aesthetics. The Sorento’s panoramic layout is enhanced by subtle ambient lighting across the dash, centre console, and door trims, delivering a lounge-like atmosphere—particularly at night. An expansive panoramic sunroof bathes the interior in natural light by day.
Comfortably seating seven, the Sorento includes fold-flat third-row seats for added flexibility. All models benefit from synthetic leather upholstery, while higher trims add heated and ventilated front seats, memory functions, and premium driver and passenger seat panels with integrated USB ports.
In line with Kia’s sustainability ethos, select interior trim elements are designed with eco-conscious materials—further reflecting the ‘Bold for Nature’ theme.
Innovation at Your Fingertips
The cabin tech offering is formidable. Dual 12.3-inch screens—one for infotainment and another for the driver cluster—come standard across the range, complemented by a 10-inch head-up display in the SXL. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth voice control, a wireless charging pad, and six USB-C ports (two per row) ensure all occupants stay connected.
Audiophiles will appreciate the premium 12-speaker Bose sound system featured in the range-topping SXL, complete with immersive surround sound. Meanwhile, a digital rear-view mirror and Around View Monitor (SXL) ensure visibility from every angle, even with a fully loaded cabin.
Safety First, Second, and Always
The Sorento doesn’t compromise on safety. Across the range, Kia’s advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) have been upgraded to include everything from Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (with Junction Turning and Crossing functions) to Lane Following Assist and Blind Spot Collision Avoidance.
A suite of up to seven airbags includes a class-leading front centre airbag—a vital innovation that offers additional protection between front-seat occupants in the event of a side impact.
Trim Breakdown: Three Ways to Experience Excellence
- EX+: The entry-level EX+ is anything but basic, offering wireless charging, synthetic leather upholstery, LED headlamps, 12.3” infotainment, panoramic sunroof, and smart entry with push-button start.
- SX: Elevating the offering with smart cruise control, power front seats, ventilated front seats, a smart power tailgate, and expanded ADAS functionality like Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Lane Keep Assist.
- SXL: The ultimate expression of Sorento luxury. Standouts include the 12-speaker Bose system, Surround View Monitor, Parking Collision Avoidance Assist, blind spot monitor, and ambient lighting upgrades.
Confidence, Capability, and Comfort—Redefined
“The Sorento’s evolution over the past few decades echoes that of the Kia brand as a whole,” says Paul Turnbull, CEO of Kia South Africa. “This latest model is the most desirable iteration yet—balancing premium design, practical family appeal, and cutting-edge safety with exceptional value.”
As a past winner of the Premium category in the South African Guild of Mobility Journalists (SAGMJ) Car of the Year awards, the Sorento’s refreshed design and expanded feature list ensure it remains a top contender in 2025.
Whether you’re navigating school runs, heading out on weekend getaways, or exploring South Africa’s great outdoors, the new Kia Sorento is ready—with confidence, style, and intelligence in every detail.
