Next-Generation Sorento Coming Soon

If you thought that Kia was going to phase out its Sorento SUV when its new Borrego arrived, think again. The Sorento,

smaller than the Borrego but larger than the Sportage, fits neatly in the middle of the Korean manufacturer's SUV lineup, and due to its off-road capability offers a unique opportunity for buyers in its segment.

With the all-new Sorento replacement, to be built at Kia's new West Point, Georgia factory and slated to arrive this spring as a 2010 model, its 4x4 prowess comes into question, however. Gone is the body-on-frame construction, replaced by a unit-body design that will improve the Sorento's ride, handling and fuel economy, but such a move normally means the death of off-road capability. But some unit-body designs, like Volkswagen's Touareg, are very adept off the beaten path. Whether Kia maintains the Sorento's off-roading prowess or not will remain

to be seen when the SUV shows up at this year's Seoul Motor Show in April. What is obvious to the eye is that Sorento fans will have reason enough to step up to the plate and renew their allegiance on styling alone.

The current SUV, also attractively styled, has done very well, and developed a strong and loyal following. It is available in four- and six-cylinder variants, a powertrain offering that should continue with the new model. The top-line Sorento should get the 3.8-litre Lambda V6 mated to a six-speed automatic, which will provide strong performance and reasonable fuel economy, while a 2.4-litre four-cylinder should remain the entry-level powerplant.

Interior fit and finish, plus the quality of materials and availability of features should go way up from the current Sorento's better than average cabin, in line with all of the recently introduced or upgraded Kias; a brand that is doing a good job of rivaling Japanese automakers for perceived quality.