As we already wrote about the Sorento SUV for the next season, it comes unchanged. Kia will save most updates for the bigger redesign set for the 2021 year model. In fact, the vehicle is already in Germany at the most popular testing track – Nurburgring. Some experts claim the SUV is heading into the new generation which is going to appear as 2021 Kia Sorento. Of course, the company is not rushing with big announcements. First of all, the vehicle is still in the first stages of development. Plus, the competition is listening very carefully what is Korean company up to.

Kia sold more than 100k units last year. That is an excellent result for a mid-size SUV. The 2021 Kia Sorento, with new styling and features, will aim for higher sales, that is for sure. Another ace upon the sleeve is a possible hybrid engine. Well, we could hear about this drivetrain coming next season, but it is not going to happen. On the other hand, the company plans to install the plug-in system for 2021 Sorento.

When Is The 2021 Kia Sorento Coming Out?

The new 2021 Kia Sorento model is already being tested. However, these are the first phrases and reports will show if new ideas could be turned into production so quickly. Either way, the 2021 YM is not coming in next year and more. A model for 2020 is not out yet. So, we will have to be patient and wait for the updates. Kia will definitely give pieces of information every now and then. Fans are keen to hear anything about PHEV drivetrain. Also, the new version will come up with the new price. As you can guess, higher. But how much, we will know when the new Sorento debuts in the second half of 2020.

Redesign Details and Possible Changes

The 2021 Kia Sorento will suffer so many modifications and some say that will be enough for the new generation of the SUV. Although there are spy photos already available, we don’t have enough clues about these changes. The redesign is certain, but Kia is going to remain silent for some while.

The front fascia seems to be new through the heavy camouflage. Larger grille and bumper are almost certain. Headlights should complete the redesign. The new Sorento will keep dimensions and remain a three-row 7-seat SUV. Updated equipment will come with more features. The good thing about this model is a wide offer of trim levels. The entry model is offering Android Auto and Apple CarPlay and 7-inch touchscreen display is standard for most of the lineup. Higher trim levels will offer UVO eServices, more speakers for the audio system, and more options for the safety system. Top of the class versions are SX and SX Limited with surround monitor, Harman-Kardon audio, 8-inch screen, lane departure warning, and many other advanced features.

2021 Kia Sorento Prime

Kia is finding the Russian market as the second most important one for their seven-seat SUV. There, the most interesting model is going to be the 2021 Kia Sorento Prime. It will get a special bumper and retouched grille, compared to the rest of the lineup. Currently, the Prime model is offering soft plastic and a choice of four options for upholstery. The audio system here is Harman Kardon, with commands from an 8-inch touchscreen. The climate control has a separate display, which displays the temperature settings. Of course, outside the US, the Korean company will use diesel engines.

Specs

Under the bonnet of the 2021 Kia Sorento will remain a 3.3-liter V6 engine. It is producing 290 hp and 250 lb-ft and makes the SUV competitive on the market. Front-wheel drive is standard, while the AWD is optional drive. Kia will pair the V6 unit with an eight-speed automatic transmission to achieve 5,000 pounds of towing capacity. Fuel economy depends on a drive system. It is 19/26 with FWD and 19/25 with AWD currently. With some weight savings, the new SUV could boost these numbers. That is definitely going to happen if the hybrid model appears.

The new Sorento is dropping a four-cylinder drivetrain. A 2.4-l mill is capable to deliver 185 hp, which is more suitable for compact models. Also, the outputs of towing capacity and fuel economy are not matching the mid-size class. Finally, the SUV needs more power to deliver a smooth ride for all seven passengers inside the cabin.

2021 Kia Sorento Hybrid

The 2021 Kia Sorento Hybrid is a solution to fuel economy concerns. The company will combine a V6 engine with an electric motor, which will be enough to return at least 300 hp and 26 mpg combined. Toyota Highlander Hybrid can do 30 miles per gallon and it is going to get a boost next season. Sorento will share the engine with Sedona MPV. Well, these two vehicles are already using a 3.3-liter displacement as the base unit.

Diesel

The new 2021 Kia Sorento is not going to offer diesel engines for US customers. The regulations are not easy to meet and that will need a lot of development and changes on existing drivetrains. The cost of a diesel model would be significantly higher, and fuel savings won’t be able to cover it for several years.