Fourth-Generation Kia Sorento (MQ4)

The Kia Sorento was one of the best-selling vehicles ever made when it was first introduced in early 2002 and for the past three generations, the Sorento never fails to cater to every single driver with convenience, performance, and comfort, something that the competition got them grinding their gears. With the Sorento reaching its all-new, fourth-generation model, there are some things to watch out for, something that previous owners can't wait to swap for this all-new model.

2021 Kia Sorento

The all-new, fourth-generation, Kia Sorento, starting at 29,480,000 Korean Won (around $30,000) marks a big step toward Kia's best-selling SUV that has been known the world over with its usability, practicality, and comfort that is as close to the competition as you can get. Those who gained their family experience from the previous third-generation model will probably say that it performs better than the previous cars they had but for the fourth-generation model, I wonder how much has changed since I first had the hot seat from its previous model?

2021 Kia Sorento

The fourth-generation model's design isn't what you called generic but it's not revolting to look at either. On the front view, the new face looks a bit like a botched job while the side view looks like the previous model I had my hot seat on, and on the rearview, the headlamps can be easily mistaken for either a Ford Explorer or a Mustang without the terrifying blinkers that scares everyone behind it, not to mention the fact where exhausts planted below the car rather than to the faux tips. Despite its questionable exterior design, there's no stopping someone from getting their hands on this new model.

2021 Kia Sorento interior

2021 Kia Sorento interior

Because it's now slightly bigger than the previous model, the interior is surprisingly roomier than the old one as well, meaning it's almost as big as the Mazda CX-8 and it works rather well as a family mover on a daily basis. More spacious as well.

Whether you will take it at work, on a family play date, or on a relaxing Sunday drive to Leavenworth, the new Sorento really keeps it cool on the go. 

On the driver's side, you can expect lots of stuff to toy around with such as the 10.25-inch UVO navigation system, smartphone connectivity, an optional wireless smartphone charger, a built-in camera for when you can spot some sweet potatoes littering through the road, ambient lighting, a rotary shift knob like you get from the Jaguar, and so much more.

2021 Kia Sorento

The fourth-generation Sorento is available at launch with the brand-new Smartstream D2.2 engine which produces 202PS of power and 45kgf-m of torque. Mated to a brand new Smartstream 8-speed wet dual-clutch gearbox, it delivers a combined fuel economy of about 14.3km/L. That's some improvement compared to the previous model but you should really thank the new platform it dons on this new model because apart from its longer wheelbase and better fuel economy, the new platform results in a more enjoyable driving experience courtesy of its reworked suspension setup that delivers the best of SUV-like ruggedness and sedan-riding comfort, a step ahead from the previous model it replaces.

For 4WD models, the Sorento comes with Terrain Mode which allows the drivers to switch through three different modes; Snow, Mud, and Sand, allowing them to claw through different conditions like elephants on the mountainous borders a la Hannibal. There's even Advanced Driver Assistance Systems with Level 2 autonomy and Advanced Smart Parking Assist, meaning that with such high levels of intelligence poured into this crossover, it can be either surprised and annoyed at the same time because, with so many cars going AI-crazy in the name of safety, the new Sorento is not exempted here. Better behave like normal humans, people.

So, the new, fourth-generation Sorento may have nearly-revolting looks compared to the previous model but its comfort, practicality, tech, and performance push it slightly further forward, and when compared to the previous model I had my hot seat on, this is slightly an improvement and those who driven the previous model until now will be appreciated enough how much it changed and they're looking forward to upgrade to this new generation.

Photo: Kia Motors