2014 Kia Sorento Preview: 2012 Los Angeles Auto Show

It might look like Kia has performed a standard-issue mid-cycle facelift on the 2014 Sorento, but the automaker claims that 80% of this midsize crossover SUV’s components are either brand new or redesigned. That’s a significant upgrade for a vehicle that’s just three years old, one that signifies just how serious Kia is about having consumers take it seriously.

When the new 2014 Sorento goes on sale in the spring of 2013, it will compete against the Dodge Journey, Ford Edge, GMC Terrain, Honda Pilot, Hyundai Santa Fe, Mazda CX-9, Mitsubishi Outlander, Nissan Murano, Subaru Outback, and Toyota Highlander.

2014 Kia Sorento Preview: 2012 Los Angeles Auto Show

• Standard direct-injected 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine
• New 3.3-liter V-6 engine
• Torque Vectoring Cornering Control added to optional AWD system
• New electric steering with Flex Steer technology
• Structural and suspension upgrades
• Freshened styling front and rear
• New LED running lights
• New LED taillights
• Restyled aluminum wheels choices
• Redesigned dashboard and displays
• New TFT digital gauge cluster
• New 8-inch infotainment screen
• Redesigned panoramic sunroof option
• Optional UVO eServices technology
• Optional power tailgate
• Optional rear window sunshades
• Optional ventilated front seats
• Optional Blind Spot Detection system
• SX Limited model added at top of the lineup

2014 Kia Sorento Preview: 2012 Los Angeles Auto Show

The current Kia Sorento is an appealing SUV, one I’ve always thought required a dash of design refinement. That happens for 2013. Lighting and grillework is tidied up, the taillights are elegantly stretched into the liftgate, and the bumpers are restyled to give the SUV a wider and lower appearance. New LED running lights and taillights add an upscale flair, and, depending on the model selected, the 2014 Sorento rides on 17-, 18-, or new 19-inch aluminum wheels.

Inside, the revamped Sorento gains a redesigned dashboard, and every model except for the base Sorento LX gets a new 7-inch TFT display screen with a digital speedometer and data panel flanked by analog tachometer and fuel gauges. An 8-inch touchscreen display accommodates the Sorento’s optional navigation system and UVO eServices technology.

2014 Kia Sorento Preview: 2012 Los Angeles Auto Show

The 2014 Kia Sorento is offered in LX, EX, SX, and new SX Limited (SXL) trim levels. The LX and EX models are powered by the formerly optional 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine with direct fuel injection, which generates 191 horsepower at 6,300 rpm and 181 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,250 rpm. A 6-speed automatic transmission delivers the power to the front wheels.

The bigger news relates to the Sorento’s new direct-injected, 3.3-liter V-6 engine. Optional for the LX and EX models, and standard on the SX and SXL, this V-6 makes 290 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and 252 lb.-ft. of torque at 5,200 rpm. A 6-speed automatic and front-wheel drive are standard with this engine, too, but the V-6 can be bolted to an optional Torque On Demand all-wheel drive system. For 2013, this AWD system is upgraded with Torque Vectoring Cornering Control (TVCC).

The Sorento’s new electric steering offers optional Flex Steer technology, which allows the driver to select Normal, Comfort or Sport steering tuning. Suspension components are strengthened this year, a strut tower brace is standard, and the Sorento’s new chassis increases torsional stiffness by 18%, which improves ride and handling.

2014 Kia Sorento Preview: 2012 Los Angeles Auto Show

In addition to Bluetooth connectivity with streaming audio capability, satellite radio, an Infinity premium audio system, and a navigation system, the 2014 Kia Sorento is one of the first models equipped with the company’s new UVO eServices telematics technology.

Additional upgrades for 2014 include a new Blind Spot Detection system, ventilated front seats, a programmable power tailgate, and a redesigned panoramic sunroof. The new Sorento is also available with a new 115-volt power inverter, second-row window sunshades, and illuminated door handle pockets.

The Sorento SX Limited model stands apart from the rest of the lineup thanks to 19-inch chrome aluminum wheels fronting red brake calipers, Xenon HID headlights, and “SXL” badges. The cabin receives premium headliner and roof pillar material, upgraded Nappa leather seats, a wood-trimmed and heated steering wheel, and heated rear seats. Ebony Black, Snow White Pearl and Titanium Silver are the only colors offered for the 2014 Sorento SXL.

2014 Kia Sorento Preview: 2012 Los Angeles Auto Show

The Sorento is a little bit smaller than some of the midsize crossover SUVs against which it competes, but the upgrades for 2014 mean it still earns a spot on consumer consideration lists. Add competitive pricing and a warranty that is the industry standard bearer, and a 2014 Sorento appeals to both the left and right sides of your brain.