2015 Kia Sorento
Changes for the 2015 Kia Sorento:
Following a significant refresh for the 2014 model year, the 2015 Sorento adds new UVO eServices technology paired with an Infinity premium audio system. Navigation is a separate option this year. Minor front styling details are adjusted, too.
Model Lineup:
The 2015 Kia Sorento lineup includes LX, LX V6, EX, SX, and Limited trim levels. The Sorento LX V6 includes standard equipment plus a V-6 engine, acoustic windshield glass, silver roof rails, and a third-row seat.
Most people will prefer the Sorento EX, which adds a long list of upgrades to the LX V6 model. Highlights include leather seats, power adjustable and heated front seats, second-row side window shades, UVO eServices technology, dual-zone automatic climate control, rear air conditioning, and Smart Key entry with push-button starting. The EX models also come with automatic headlights, LED running lights, fog lights, and 18-inch aluminum wheels, as well as a reversing camera and rear parking assist sensors. Upgraded Supervision gauges with a 7-inch LCD information screen, nicer interior trim, a 115-volt power outlet, and FlexSteer multi-mode steering are also included for the Sorento EX.
The Sorento SX features fancier interior and exterior trim, LED taillights, power folding side mirrors, a panoramic sunroof, and 19-inch aluminum wheels. An Infinity premium audio system, a navigation system with an 8-inch display screen, ventilated front seats, a Blind Spot Detection system, and a power rear liftgate also come standard on this model.
At the top of the lineup, the Sorento Limited features HID headlights and chrome wheels, along with premium Nappa leather, heated rear seats, and a heated leather-and-wood steering wheel.
Engines and Transmissions:
A 191-horsepower, 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine is standard for the Sorento LX. All other versions of this crossover SUV are equipped with a 290-horsepower, 3.3-liter V-6 engine. Both power plants are paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive, with all-wheel drive available as an option. The AWD system includes Torque Vectoring Cornering Control and a locking center differential.
Fuel Economy Ratings:
The Sorento LX gets 23 mpg in combined driving, but when this model is equipped with AWD that figure falls to 22 mpg. Versions equipped with the V-6 engine get 21 mpg with front-wheel drive and 20 mpg with AWD.
Safety Ratings:
In government crash tests, the 2015 Sorento earns a 5-star overall rating. The Sorento also gets “Good” ratings in tests conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), except in the small overlap frontal-impact assessment, for which the crossover SUV rates “Poor.”
Technology Highlights:
The 2015 Sorento is now offered with UVO eServices, a subscription-free service that operates through a paired smartphone. Highlights include 911 Connect service that activates if the SUV’s airbags deploy in order to speed rescuers to the scene of the accident, a Parking Minder service to help owners find the Sorento in a parking lot, a My POI service for easy navigation to a favorite location from anywhere, and more.
Written by Christian Wardlaw
July 31, 2014
