For those seeking a rugged and practical seven-seater SUV, there are many options available in the market. Among them, the Kia Sorento has remained a well-established name, offering strong value for over two decades. Now in its fourth generation, the Sorento has recently received a mid-life facelift, introducing both cosmetic and mechanical updates to maintain its position in the competitive SUV segment.

The most visible changes appear at the front, where a redesigned grille and vertically-stacked headlights give the SUV a more commanding presence. This new design aligns with the aesthetics of Kia’s flagship electric SUV, the EV9. Apart from minor refinements to the bumpers and rear lights, the Sorento retains much of its familiar styling.

Inside, the cabin now features a large dual-screen setup, seamlessly combining a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen and a 12.3-inch driver instrument display. Below the air conditioning vents, a digital switch panel allows easy toggling between climate control and infotainment settings, a feature initially introduced in Kia’s EV models. The most significant change in the Singapore market is the shift to a 1.6-litre hybrid powertrain, replacing the 2.2-litre turbo diesel due to new regulations prohibiting the registration of diesel-powered passenger cars from this year.

Despite its relatively small engine size, the 1.6-litre hybrid system delivers 212hp and 366Nm of torque, making it responsive and capable. While its 0-100 km/h acceleration of 9.3 seconds may not seem particularly quick, the hybrid system provides strong initial acceleration, thanks to the instant torque from the electric motor. The transition between electric and petrol power is exceptionally smooth, with minimal noticeable difference unless the engine is pushed to high revs.

Fuel efficiency is another key advantage, with Kia claiming an average consumption of 5.1 litres per 100km, making it more economical than the previous diesel model’s 5.7 litres per 100km. The hybrid’s annual road tax of $742 is also significantly lower than the $2,052 for the diesel, reducing long-term running costs.

As a large family SUV, the Sorento prioritizes comfort and stability over sportiness. The ride quality remains composed and refined, effortlessly handling road imperfections while offering a smooth and quiet highway experience. The seven-seat configuration provides ample space for passengers, though the third row is best suited for children due to its limited legroom.

The Tech Pack trim includes premium features such as a panoramic sunroof, head-up display, ambient lighting, and a 12-speaker Bose sound system, complementing the smart power tailgate and 360-degree parking camera available in the standard SX trim. While some accessories, such as the side steps and Sorento decals, are exclusive to the test model and not standard offerings, the overall feature set remains impressive.

Priced at $261,999 with COE (as of January 2025), the Sorento Hybrid is not an inexpensive option. The Tech Pack variant, costing an additional $10,000, caters to those who prioritize premium features like a high-end audio system and a panoramic roof. While not the most affordable seven-seater SUV, the Sorento Hybrid stands out for its well-balanced performance, fuel efficiency, and extensive feature list, making it a compelling choice for families looking for a refined and capable vehicle.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from AsiaOne/Ben Chia