2012 Kia Sorento: Leading towcar gets stronger chassis and improved mpg
The Sorento is one of Kia's most popular models
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The Korean 4x4 has come out on top in a recent customer satisfaction survey carried out by JD Power and WhatCar? Magazine |
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Monday, 25, Jun 2012 10:38
by Tom Lowenstein
Buying a new towcar can be a complicated business and is not a decision to be rushed, but if you're putting together a list of possible options then the Kia Sorento should definitely feature towards the top.
In the autumn Kia will launch its new Sorento in the UK, featuring a host of upgrades that could tip the balance in its favour.
With a new chassis leading the line-up of upgrades, the sports utility vehicle is now even better suited to a life towing a caravan, while a whole host of other changes have improved its drive performance, fuel economy and looks too.
As well as new energy-saving LED lights, lower CO2 emissions and chunky 19-inch alloy wheels, it also has a re-engineered bodyshell and augmented powertrains that have made it best in its class for fuel economy - something that is always important when towing your tourer down the motorway.
It is literally packed with features and, as well as fitting a maximum of seven seats in the cabin, comes with a high-tech new 7" LED console as well as a panoramic sun roof, among several other big draws.
The Sorento was already popular before the upgrade, with over 620,000 sold globally since its launch in 2009, but the latest model should cement its position as a leader in the affordable SUV category.
"We have given very careful attention to owners' feedback and the upgraded Sorento is not just a cosmetic exercise but a major step forward for our popular SUV," explained Thomas Oh, executive vice president and chief operating officer of the international business division at Kia.
Growing reputation
Now, you may be thinking that you'd prefer a tow car by a carmaker with a big reputation, but Kia has done a lot recently to legitimately be up there with the big boys like Land Rover, Toyota and Ford.
So much so in fact that consumer watchdog Which? has just named it Best Car Manufacturer 2012 in its annual awards.
The organisation praised it for customer satisfaction and reliability across its whole range of vehicles and made special mention of its industry-beating seven year warranty.
All of Kia's vehicles received the thumbs up from Which? after extensive lab tests, with the watchdog describing it as "the most improved car brand around" compared to five years ago.
As Which? chief executive Peter Vicary-Smith said when he presented the award: "This is the first time Kia has made the short-list and to walk off with the title is a significant achievement."