Kia: The Sorento is the off-road champion
READY AT ALL TIMES The fourth generation of the Kia Sorento presents itself as a superior all-wheel drive vehicle. A newly developed Terrain Mode system helps the SUV to achieve even better traction on slippery surfaces. The system, which is activated and operated via a rotary control in the center console, offers the Snow, Mud and Sand settings for snowy, muddy and sandy surfaces. With the [...]
The system, which is activated and operated via a rotary control in the center console, offers the Snow, Mud and Sand settings for snowy, muddy and sandy surfaces. When a mode is selected, the entire drivetrain is automatically optimized for the selected scenario.
Hybrid version coming at the end of the year
The petrol hybrid version of the new Sorento has a six-speed automatic transmission as standard, while the diesel model has an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission.
In addition to these two drive variants, a plug-in hybrid model of the Kia SUV has also been announced for the end of the year.
Engine torque on all four wheels
If you live in snowy regions or enjoy winter sports, you will appreciate the snow mode. It is designed to ensure propulsion on slippery or icy roads. To this end, the engine torque is limited and distributed evenly to all four wheels.
In addition, traction is optimized by the traction control system braking individual wheels slightly if necessary. By shifting up the gearbox earlier, the engine speed is kept low in this mode to prevent the wheels from spinning.
Delayed gear changes in mud
Mud mode offers more traction and control on paths and fields that are softened by wet conditions or covered in mud. The improved drivability is achieved through slightly delayed gearshifts, an even application of engine torque by the all-wheel drive system and a stronger braking effect of the traction control system. The combination of these measures helps the Sorento maintain its momentum to avoid getting stuck in the mud.
Sand mode prevents getting stuck
On roads with loose sand or on the beach, the new Sorento can be driven more safely with the support of sand mode. It reduces the risk of the vehicle getting stuck by using higher engine torques through later upshifts, which are distributed as evenly as possible by the all-wheel drive system.
In this case too, the traction control provides more braking force so that more torque can be directed to individual wheels if required.
Prices start at CHF 49,950 for the 2.2 Smartstream Diesel model with 201 hp and eight-speed automatic transmission.
