2016 Kia Sorento unveiled, few details offered

Moving a step close to the full reveal that will take place in Korea later this month, the first official images of the next-gen Kia Sorento have been released by the factory. Beyond verifying what was presented two weeks ago in the initial teaser campaign, this latest release was accompanied by only a few new technical details and feature facts. 

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Due to arrive here in mid-2015 as a 2016 model, the new Kia Sorento will indeed have a bolder and more aggressive exterior design which was inspired by the cool Kia Cross GT Concept first seen last year in Chicago. However, the images indicate the new Sorento won’t be quite as edgy as what was portrayed in the illustrations. A collective effort between the automaker’s studios in Korea, Germany and the U.S., this 7-passenger people mover does sport a more contemporary look from its latest take on the signature "tiger-nose" grille to its trimmer LED-infused taillamps. With a faster windshield angle, lower roofline, higher beltline and more sculpted side panels, the Sorento’s visual appeal is enhanced from every angle. Nearly 3.7 inches longer than the vehicle it replaces, the upcoming version also has nearly 3.2 inches more wheelbase, a stretch that will benefit passengers in all three rows. 

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While the Sorento’s upgraded cabin remains under wraps, Kia has stated it too will raise benchmarks with respect to style, luxury and convenience. The 2016 Sorento also promises to introduce new forms of safety technology to complement its improved handling and efficiency. Following its Korean debut the mid-size SUV will be headed to the Paris Auto Show in October for a formal global intro.

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