The 2023 Kia Sorento: A New Benchmark in Compact SUV Excellence
The 2023 Kia Sorento, a fourth-generation model, continues to redefine the compact SUV segment. Since its inception in 2002, the Sorento has been a flagship product for Kia, consistently evolving to become more powerful, aesthetically pleasing, well-engineered, and technologically advanced. The 2023 model further elevates the Sorento’s reputation, setting a new benchmark with its unmatched estimated fuel economy of 37 mpg combined for a 3-row SUV.
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Praise from Kia’s Leadership
Sean Yoon, the president & CEO of Kia Motors North America & Kia Motors America, lauds the Sorento as a testament to Kia’s premier design and engineering. Its blend of style, utility, safety, and comfort has made it a favorite among customers, and the 2023 model is expected to raise the bar even higher.
Enhanced Features Across All Trims for the 2023 Kia Sorento
The 2023 Kia Sorento comes with enhanced features across all trim levels, starting with the base LX model. It now includes standard Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) such as Blind Spot Collision-Avoidance, Rear Cross Traffic Collision Avoidance, and Safe Exit Assist. Other trims have been upgraded with previously optional convenience features. The S trim now includes a wireless smartphone charger, the EX trim boasts an 8-way power front passenger seat and a frameless rearview mirror, and the SX trim features a 12.3-inch color digital instrument panel, power-folding exterior mirrors, and rain-sensing windshield wipers.
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Pricing and 2023 Kia Sorento Trim Levels
The 2023 Kia Sorento offers a variety of trim levels to cater to different preferences and budgets. The base LX model starts at $30,090, followed by the S model at $32,590. The X-Line S AWD is priced at $34,590, while the EX model comes in at $35,990. The X-Line EX AWD is available for $39,690, and the SX model is priced at $38,890. The top-tier SX-Prestige AWD and X-Line SX-Prestige AWD are priced at $43,490 and $43,690, respectively.
Stunning New Design of the 2023 Kia Sorento
The 2023 Kia Sorento boasts a stylish and modern exterior defined by sharp lines and high-tech details. Key features include Kia’s modernized “tiger nose,” a distinctive dynamic wave shape at the base of the C-pillar, and six different alloy wheel designs ranging from 17 to 20 inches. The interior continues the sophisticated sensibility of the exterior, featuring bright satin finishes, optional metal texture or open-pore wood inlays, and leather embossed quilt patterns on optional leather-equipped models.
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A Robust Foundation of the 2023 Kia Sorento
The 2023 Sorento is built on an all-new 3rd generation “N3” platform, which is lighter, stronger, and more flexible than its predecessors. The wheelbase has been increased by nearly 1.4 inches for more interior space, and the overall weight has been reduced by 3.1% (119 lbs.). The new platform also improves driving dynamics, including acceleration, ride and handling, and noise vibration and harshness (NVH). It also features a new aluminum bumper plate for improved durability and a multi-load-path body structure for better distribution of impact kinetic energy forces. The platform’s versatility allows for the accommodation of alternate drivetrains, such as hybrid and plug-in hybrid, which will be available in the coming year.
Engine Options for Varied Preferences
The 2023 Kia Sorento offers a range of power options to cater to various driving preferences, with two internal combustion engines and two electrified motors available in both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations. The first option is a 2.5-liter GDI 4-cylinder engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. This engine delivers 191 horsepower and 181 lb.-ft. of torque. It’s available in both FWD and AWD configurations, with the AWD system using torque-vectoring with a center-locking differential to provide extra power to the rear wheels in slippery conditions. This engine option offers an estimated combined (city and highway) fuel efficiency of 27 mpg, a 2 mpg increase over the previous Sorento model.
Power and Efficiency Combined
For those seeking more power, the 2023 Kia Sorento also offers a 2.5-liter GDI 4-cylinder Turbo engine. This engine, unique to its segment, is paired with an 8-speed wet dual clutch automatic transmission, delivering a robust 281 horsepower and 311 lb.-ft. of torque. Like the first option, it’s available in both FWD and AWD configurations and boasts a towing capability of 3,500 lbs. This turbo engine offers an estimated combined fuel efficiency of 25 mpg, a 3 mpg increase over the previous V6 Sorento, making it a powerful yet efficient choice for the discerning driver.
Advanced Technology Features
The 2023 Kia Sorento is equipped with an extensive list of advanced technology features, setting it apart in its category. It boasts an available 12.3-inch full digital meter cluster, a first for any Kia SUV, and an 8-inch or available 10.25-inch high-resolution color touchscreen display. The Surround View Monitor uses four cameras to provide a 360-degree perspective around the vehicle, enhancing driver confidence in tight parking situations. The Blind View Monitor, a Sorento first, projects a live video view of adjacent lanes in the instrument cluster when activated via the turn signal. The Sorento also offers eight USB charging ports, split-screen functionality, and available SiriusXM satellite radio.
Innovative UVO Link Telematics
The 2023 Kia Sorento’s UVO link telematics offers an array of advanced connected vehicle features. The new cloud-based route calculation system uses UVO cloud to calculate the optimal route using real-time maps, predicted upcoming traffic info based on historical information, and AI to learn the preferred routes of users. The enhanced UVO voice assist feature allows voice control of the vehicle’s climate, seat and steering-wheel heating, audio system, and other functions. The UVO & Smart Speaker Integration lets customers use Amazon-Alexa or Google-Assistant enabled smart speaker or device to remotely control some functions, such as remote start. Advanced notifications like Engine Idle Notification and Automatic Engine Shut Off, Rear Occupancy Alert, and 911 Connect and Roadside Assistance are also part of the UVO system.
Premium Sound and Convenience Features
The 2023 Kia Sorento also features a Bose Premium sound system with 12 high-performance speakers. Bose Centerpoint technology converts stereo sources into a richer surround-sound experience, and Dynamic Speed Compensation analyzes the sound source and automatically adjusts according to speed. The vehicle also offers an available wireless smartphone charging pad with increased charge rates. The standard Rear Occupant Alert uses ultrasonic sensors engineered to detect child or pet movement in the second and third rows after the doors have been locked and then can notify the driver and surrounding area by sounding the horn and illuminating the hazard lamps.
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Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems
The 2023 Kia Sorento is equipped with 16 “Kia Drive Wise” Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS) that are either standard or available, ensuring a safer and more comfortable driving experience. The new Blind Spot Collision Avoidance (BCCA) – Parallel Exit uses the rear-corner radar to detect a collision risk with parallel traffic when leaving a parking spot. The system applies emergency braking and cautions the driver through the cluster and an audible alarm. The standard Intelligent Speed Limit Assist (ISLA) automatically changes the set speed of Smart Cruise Control using the speed limit information detected through the front camera or GPS navigation information. The Forward Collision Warning (FCW) is designed to detect a vehicle ahead in the lane and calculates distance and closing speed to issue an alert to the driver if it senses a potential frontal collision.
Collision Avoidance and Driver Alert Systems
Building on the FCW, the Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA) assists the driver when braking to help prevent a collision or lessen the effects if a vehicle or object is detected in front. The FCA-Pedestrian and FCA-Cyclist functionalities help detect pedestrians and cyclists in front of the vehicle and use automatic braking to avoid or mitigate an impact. The Driver Attention Warning (DAW) senses inattentive driving patterns and sends an audible/visual warning to alert the driver. The Leading Vehicle Departure Alert (LVDA) alerts the driver with a chime when the leading vehicle begins to move forward from a standing position.
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Lane Assistance and Parking Assistance Systems
The Lane Following Assist (LFA) follows lane markings that the system detects and provides steering inputs to help maintain the vehicle in the center of the lane. The Blind Spot Collision Avoidance Assist (BCA) can detect vehicles traveling in the next lane and apply brakes to help return the vehicle to its lane under certain conditions. The Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist (RCCA) helps detect most approaching cross traffic when in reverse, alerting the driver and applying brakes when necessary. The Parking Collision Avoidance Assist (PCA-R) uses a rearview camera and rear ultrasonic sensors to help detect most pedestrians or nearby obstacles when the vehicle backs out of a parking spot, warning drivers with a chime and can engage brakes to prevent a collision.
Conclusion: The Pinnacle of Compact SUVs
The 2023 Kia Sorento stands as a testament to Kia’s commitment to innovation, design, and engineering. With its powerful engine options, advanced driver-assistance systems, and a host of technological features, it sets a new standard in the compact SUV segment. The Sorento’s blend of style, utility, safety, and comfort makes it a top choice for customers seeking a vehicle that combines the practicality of an SUV with the luxury and sophistication of a premium car.
The Sorento’s evolution over the years has been marked by continuous improvement and the 2023 model is no exception. From its stylish exterior to its feature-packed interior, every aspect of the Sorento is designed to enhance the driving experience. Whether you’re navigating city streets or embarking on a cross-country adventure, the 2023 Kia Sorento is equipped to deliver a ride that’s smooth, comfortable, and above all, safe. This is more than just a vehicle; it’s a statement of Kia’s vision for the future of automotive excellence.