After making an early spy debut in September 2022, the facelifted Kia Sorento is back for some winter testing in the freezing cold of Scandinavia, retaining the same heavy camouflage but showing a tiny bit more of its updated design.
The most important styling updates are expected at the front, which appears to be completely redesigned with vertically-mounted LEDs, inspired by the styling of the Kia EV9. Unlike the latter, the Sorento has a combustion engine under the bonnet which is why a conventional grille is needed, but the updated model will get an updated pattern. The lower bumper intakes also appear to be redesigned as with the bonnet which remains a well-kept secret hiding under large patches of camo.
Read: 2023 Kia Sorento Arrives With More Standard Equipment And Slightly Higher Prices
The profile of the Kia Sorento will likely remain unchanged although the covered rear section could hint at a slightly different D-pillar. Kia engineers did a great job in covering up the tail, only allowing us a peak at the LED taillights which look identical to the current model. Still, this could change in future prototypes wearing the final production-ready bodywork.
Inside the cabin, the digital cockpit will be blessed with the latest infotainment system that will be compatible with over-the-air updates and offer feature-on-demand services. Kia has confirmed that the new connected car features be available in its entire model lineup by 2025. Another highlight will be the “AutoMode” ADAS package that will be introduced by the EV9 and gradually expand to all models in major markets by 2026 – including the Sorento.
There is no information about powertrains at this early stage, although we would expect many carry-over options with a heavier focus on the cleaner and more efficient hybrid and plug-in hybrid trims.
The fourth-gen Kia Sorento was originally introduced in 2020 which means it will be four years old next year, making it the perfect time for a mid-lifecycle update. Judging from the heavy camo on the prototypes, we wouldn’t expect a debut earlier than the second half of 2023. Hyundai is working on a more significant update for the mechanically-related Santa Fe, with the next-gen SUV adopting a boxier stance.
