Exclusive test drive in the 2010 Kia Sorento crossover

Written by himi on October 16th, 2008 in Spy Shots, General News

Kia has already started some activities to promote the 2010 Kia Sorento to the public. The all-new Sorento crossover is still a few months away, but the company has already revealed some secrets on it’s future 4×4 vehicle. A prototype of the 2010 Sorento had been shown to the British Whatcar magazine, whose editor has also got behind the wheel and made an exclusive test drive with it.

The most important news about the 2010 Sorento is it’s “set up”. Unlike the current Sorento, which is sitting on the body on frame platform, the new model adopts a car-like monoque structure, meaning that it’s ride quality has been dramatically improved.

Although the test-drive was only limited to test track, Sorento’s handling felt stiffer and less wayward compared to the current model. With an unibody platform, the towing capacity has lowered, but Kia promises Sorento will still be able to handle itself off-road and when towing.

The new Sorento has grown in size, and will offer seating for five or seven people. It will get a brand new 2,2L diesel engine, which will pack more power and higher torque. The horsepower figure for the new engine is 186 horsepower and 304 ft-lbs. of torque. The engine will be paired with the all new six speed automatic transmission.

The interior of the 2010 Kia Sorento is also said to be the whole new story. It looks more modern and nicely laid out. Higher grade materials were used inside to look more upmarket. In general, the interior is massively improved and feels much quieter, with less wind and road noise compared to the old model.

Sorento will reportedly go on sale in the third quarter of 2009 as a 2010 model.

Below is an Exclusive Rendering of the 2010 Kia Sorento Crossover: