It almost looked as if the hype about fuel-efficient models and electric vehicles could spoil the desire for SUVs. Meanwhile, however, it is clear: an SUV as the embodiment of freedom on four wheels, the need for space and prestige in front of kindergartens and supermarkets, it remains more than just an entertaining trend. On the contrary, the selection of vehicles is increasing across all price ranges:

In the driving report:

KIA Sorento 2.2 CRDI 4WD

This KIA wants to play in the large full-size SUV segment.

Can a Kia be Premium? The purchase price alone makes a huge difference. Large German SUVs easily cost twenty thousand euros more than the Sorento. A comparison is therefore out of the question. Or? Or maybe the KIA is a new car recommendation for car buyers who would otherwise buy a used premium SUV?

Is the big KIA SUV a sham or can you really compare a new KIA with a used German premium SUV? If so, what are the differences? Where are the advantages of the established premium models?

This driving report should show the differences and help with orientation.

For many automobile buyers, an SUV is the fulfillment of the highest demands on a car. A multi-purpose vehicle with which you can not only impress your neighbors, but also have real advantages in everyday life. More space, more space, fewer obstacles off the beaten track. Such an SUV seems really practical - but can this big KIA play along?

Facelift with big consequences

A big SUV from KIA? An alternative for premium models from Germany?

Technology briefly explained:

Soft touch: If you want to make an impression on discerning buyers today, you should definitely not use simple hard plastic. The type and shape of the surface that is in direct contact with the occupants' hands is particularly important. A soft, sensitive haptic for plastics, a cool one for metal and wood must feel like wood. In the case of plastics, the surfaces are refined by using special coatings or varnishes.

Lock Mode: The Sorento is offered in two drive versions. Pure front-wheel drive and an electronically controlled all-wheel drive. With the tested 4WD model, the all-wheel drive can be switched to a fixed power distribution of 50 to 50% at the touch of a button. This fixed distribution of driving forces helps on extremely slippery surfaces. Usually, most of the power goes to the front axle in everyday life. 

Active hood system: High-rise SUVs pose a greater risk in accidents with pedestrians than classic cars. In the case of the Sorento, KIA therefore relies on an active hood system, which in the worst case of an accident with a pedestrian automatically lifts the rear part in order to minimize the risk of injury.  [/ one_third]

Cars usually live to be 6-8 years old until they are replaced by a new model. Halfway through this time, product maintenance is then - also usually - inserted. There are manufacturers with multiple product maintenance and there are manufacturers where a vehicle can roll off the assembly line for 30 years. In the case of KIA's Sorento, there is a sister model from the same group. Because, like Volkswagen, the Korean Hyundai Group is also pursuing a multi-brand strategy. The two manufacturers under one roof: Kia and Hyundai naturally share common platforms. And in the case of the Sorento, the sister model, the Hyundai Santa Fe, was completely renewed in 2012.

The right time to pass the technology update on to the sister model. In the case of the Sorento, they did not want to shock the buyers of the young predecessor model (this came in 2009!) - so the design was only tentatively changed. However, there were major changes under the sheet metal:

A low cabin floor, a new body structure, a modified chassis and, throughout, more space in the interior. At the same time, the drag coefficient fell from 0,38 to 0,34.

The first impression in the interior is then also determined by an airy size. Of course, you expect exactly this space, but it remains a positive surprise when the space and quality also meet expectations. The KIA has become astonishingly good in terms of its interior quality. Wherever you go, the Sorento can impress with soft-touch surfaces and foamed plastics. In addition, the processing fits. No crooked edges, no gaps reminiscent of earlier Korean automobiles.

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