Kia unveils 2013 Sorento in Colombo

As its predecessor continues to turn heads on Sri Lanka’s roads, Kia’s 2013 Sorento SUV arrived in Colombo recently to a preview by loyal brand enthusiasts.

Key Kia customers invited to celebrate the ‘Distributor of Distinction’ award won recently by Kia’s sole distributor in Sri Lanka were accorded the first look at this definitive automotive marque, as Kia Motors (Lanka) thanked them for their patronage over the years. More than 300 guests including sports celebrities were present at the preview at the Oak Room of the Cinnamon Grand.

Even smarter and safer than its 2012 version and endowed with enhanced styling, the new seven-seater offers several noteworthy new features that will reinforce its status as one of the most popular vehicles in Sri Lanka in its category, sole distributor Kia Motors (Lanka) said.

“Kia’s approach of creating design-driven vehicles with all the advances of technology, performance, features and comfort are exemplified in the Sorento, and the 2013 model takes this concept even further,” said Mahen Thambiah, Managing Director of Kia Motors (Lanka) Ltd. “It is packed with features that are options on other high-end SUVs and can be customised with even more options that make driving a Sorento a sheer pleasure.”

Portrayed as ‘an expression of unrivalled refinement,’ the 2013 Sorento is described by its manufacturer as a more mature and sophisticated SUV that sets a new standard for style, comfort, performance, safety and convenience.

Although the basic body shape has been retained, the design of the fog Lamps, radiator grill, LED rear combination lamp, rear bumper and the tailgate, has been enhanced and the LED positioned above the headlamp enhances the vehicle’s appearance and market appeal. Larger 19-inch alloy wheels (up from 18 inch) creates a sportier appearance that augments road presence and delivers better performance.

Among the new options available in the 2013 model are Adaptive Front Light System (AFLS) – motor-powered headlamps that automatically point in the same direction the vehicle is heading based on travelling speed and steering wheel movements, resulting in improved night-time driver visibility; cornering fog lamps for better side visibility; ventilated and driver memory seats (air blown through the cushion and back of both front seats helps keep occupants cool in extreme temperatures) and flex steering system that provides three modes – normal/sport/comfort – to fit driver preferences with motor-driven power steering and super vision cluster.

Also on offer are pocket lamps under the door handles that are automatically activated by the smart key when the driver approaches the car for easier vehicle access at night; manually retractable sunshades on the second row windows that provide protection from harsh sun glare and also help keep the cabin cool on hot days; and a high-end combination Audio, 7-inch colour TFT-LCD Touch Screen cum Rear View Camera.

Kia sells more than 2.7 million vehicles a year worldwide. The company has 15 manufacturing and assembly operations in 10 countries and a network of distributors and dealers covering 149 countries. Kia Motors Corporation’s brand slogan – ‘The Power to Surprise’  – represents the company’s global commitment to surprise the world by providing exciting and inspiring experiences that go beyond expectations.

Kia Motors (Lanka) Ltd. has represented the Kia brand in Sri Lanka since 1995.

Pix by Daminda Harsha Perera