Dutch online magazine, Autoweek, have spied the next Kia Sorento undisguised. Internally known as the "XM", the SUV will go on sale in 2009 and will be marketed as a 2010 model in the U.S. The model pictured was going to be used as a road-going prototype, judging by the thick disguise located by the front bumper and around the room. The Sorento has been on the European market since 2003 and has been very succussful since it gives customers value for money, practicality and ruggedness for off-road use.
This is yet another work penned by Peter Schreyer and cues heavily from the Kia KND-4 concept that debuted in Seoul last year. Unlike the current Sorento which uses a built-on-frame like the Borrego/Mohave, the newcomer will use a unibody platform just like the Hyundai Santa Fe. Like the Cee'd interior, the Sorento's interior will be more-upmarket, better-looking and European influenced.
Under the hood, a 3.8 litre Lambda V6 petrol and a 3.0 litre V6 VGT turbo-diesel engines will be available, although it is unlikely the 3.8 litre V6 will come to the UK. Like the outgoing model, expect value for money and a starting price of £21,500 when the vehicle goes on sale in 2009. Both automatic and manual transmission's will be available.
The 2010 Kia Sorento will be manufactured in Kia's West Point, Georgia plant, the firm's first North American assembly line. The engine will be assembled in Hyundai's Montgomery, Alabama plant that also produces the Santa Fe SUV and Sonata sedan.
Via Autoweek.nl > Kia Sorento undisguised