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4th Generation Kia Sorento – A Bold Leap in SUV Evolution

May 15, 2025 3:52 pm

Introduction

The 4th Generation Kia Sorento has emerged as a revolutionary upgrade in Kia’s SUV lineup, blending advanced technology, premium styling, and exceptional performance. This model redefines the midsize SUV segment by incorporating a bold design language, hybrid powertrains, and state-of-the-art features. With global success and rising interest in emerging markets like Pakistan, the 4th Generation Kia Sorento is more than just a facelift—it’s a complete transformation that speaks to the needs of modern families and adventurers alike.

This article dives deep into every aspect of the 4th Generation Kia Sorento, from design and engine options to features, safety, pricing, and the competitive landscape. Whether you’re an SUV enthusiast or a potential buyer, this is your comprehensive guide to the 4th Generation Kia Sorento.

Design Evolution: A More Aggressive and Refined Look

The first thing that stands out about the 4th Generation Kia Sorento is its bold, muscular exterior. Kia has adopted its “Opposites United” design philosophy to give this SUV a strong presence on the road. The front fascia features Kia’s updated “tiger-nose” grille, flanked by slim LED headlamps and signature DRLs. The body has sharper character lines, a more aerodynamic profile, and wider wheel arches that provide a rugged yet refined appearance.

Key Exterior Highlights:

New LED headlights with ‘tiger eye’ DRL design
Larger front grille for an aggressive stance
18 to 20-inch alloy wheels (depending on the trim)
Dual chrome exhaust finishers
LED tail lamps in vertical arrangement

Compared to the previous generation, the 4th Generation Sorento looks sleeker and more upscale, bringing it closer in design to premium European rivals.

Interior: Premium Comfort Meets High Tech

Step inside, and the 4th Generation Kia Sorento immediately makes an impression. The cabin is more luxurious than ever, offering soft-touch materials, metallic trims, and ambient lighting. The dashboard is dominated by a wide panoramic display that includes a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen in higher trims.

Interior Features:

7 to 8-seat configurations
Quilted leather upholstery in high-end variants
Wireless charging pad
Dual-zone automatic climate control
BOSE premium sound system (in select models)
Panoramic sunroof
Smart power tailgate

The third-row seating, while slightly tight for adults, is ideal for children or occasional passengers. Overall, the interior is a step up in quality and usability, appealing to families seeking both comfort and sophistication.

Engine Options and Performance

One of the key strengths of the 4th Generation Kia Sorento lies in its wide array of engine choices. Kia offers petrol, diesel, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid options in various international markets. Each powertrain is engineered for a balance of efficiency and performance.

1. 2.5L GDI Petrol Engine:

Power: ~191 hp
Torque: ~247 Nm
Transmission: 8-speed automatic

2. 2.2L CRDi Diesel Engine:

Power: ~198 hp
Torque: ~440 Nm
Transmission: 8-speed DCT
Popular in markets with diesel demand

3. Hybrid (HEV) 1.6L Turbo GDI + Electric Motor:

Combined Power: ~227 hp
Torque: ~350 Nm
Transmission: 6-speed automatic
Fuel Economy: 15–18 km/l

4. Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) 1.6L Turbo GDI:

Combined Power: ~261 hp
EV Range: Up to 50 km (on battery)
Ideal for short urban commutes

The 4th Generation Sorento comes with both front-wheel and all-wheel-drive configurations. It also includes multiple drive modes such as Eco, Sport, Comfort, Smart, and Snow for optimal performance under various driving conditions.

4th Generation Kia Sorento: Technology and Infotainment

Technology plays a central role in the this car It offers features that are usually reserved for luxury brands, making it one of the most tech-rich SUVs in its segment.

Top Technology Features:

10.25-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
12.3-inch digital driver display
Navigation with real-time traffic updates
Multi-connection Bluetooth
UVO Connect / Kia Connect (in select markets)
Rear seat voice recognition and intercom
Remote climate control and engine start via mobile app

From seamless connectivity to remote access features, the Sorento keeps you in command of your vehicle at all times.

Safety and Driver Assistance

Kia has equipped the 4th Generation Sorento with an impressive suite of safety features. It has received top ratings in crash tests by Euro NCAP and IIHS, making it a strong contender for families concerned about safety.

Standard and Optional Safety Features:

Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA)
Lane Keeping Assist (LKA)
Blind Spot View Monitor (BVM)
Rear Cross Traffic Collision Avoidance
Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go
Surround View Monitor
Driver Attention Warning
Parking Collision Avoidance Assist

Additionally, the advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) make driving safer and more convenient, especially on long trips or in heavy traffic.

Fuel Efficiency

The 4th Generation Kia Sorento stands out for its fuel economy, especially in hybrid and diesel variants.

Powertrain	Fuel Economy (Avg.)
Petrol 2.5L	9–11 km/l
Diesel 2.2L	14–16 km/l
Hybrid	15–18 km/l
PHEV	50 km EV + 15 km/l hybrid

This level of efficiency is quite competitive given the size and capabilities of the Sorento, making it a practical option for daily use and long road trips alike.

4th Generation Kia Sorento Availability and Expected Price in Pakistan

As of mid-2025, Kia Lucky Motors has not yet officially introduced the 4th in Pakistan. Currently, the locally assembled 3rd generation model is available. However, due to increasing consumer interest in hybrid and technologically advanced SUVs, it’s highly anticipated that Kia may introduce the 4th Generation Sorento either as a CBU or CKD unit in the coming year.

Expected Pricing in Pakistan (if launched):

Petrol 2.5L FWD: PKR 11.5 – 12.5 million
Diesel 2.2L AWD: PKR 12.8 – 13.5 million
Hybrid: PKR 13.5 – 14.5 million
PHEV (imported only): PKR 15.5+ million

These are speculative prices based on global rates and current duties/taxes in Pakistan. A hybrid version could also enjoy partial tax exemption under EV policy, depending on government regulations.

4th Generation Kia Sorento Rivals and Market Competition

The 4th Generation Kia Sorento enters a crowded midsize SUV segment. Its key competitors include:

Toyota Fortuner – More rugged, but less refined and lacks hybrid options
Hyundai Santa Fe – Shares the same platform but leans slightly toward luxury
Mazda CX-9 / CX-90 – Sporty handling, premium interiors
Honda Pilot – Spacious and reliable, but conservative styling
MG HS PHEV / RX8 – Value-for-money contenders, but still building reputation

Among these, the Sorento strikes a balance between affordability, premium features, and eco-friendly powertrains, giving it a unique advantage.

4th Generation Kia Sorento Pros and Cons

4th Generation Kia Sorento Pros:

Wide range of powertrains (including hybrid and plug-in hybrid)
Premium design and interior quality
Strong safety and ADAS features
Competitive fuel economy
Excellent infotainment and connectivity features

Cons:

Third-row seating is tight for adults
High-spec variants may be expensive
No diesel option for some markets
May face high duties if imported in Pakistan

4th Generation Kia Sorento Final Verdict

The 4th Generation Kia Sorento represents a bold evolution in Kia’s SUV journey. With its modern design, efficient powertrains, and feature-rich offerings, it sets a high benchmark in the midsize SUV segment. If launched in Pakistan, it would be a game-changer, especially if Kia introduces hybrid or plug-in hybrid versions.

For those looking for a family SUV that doesn’t compromise on style, performance, or technology, the 4th is undoubtedly one of the best choices on the horizon.