Kia could ask Citroen nicely if it could borrow the French automaker’s old punch line with which it launched the C5 some years ago (“unmistakably German”) to promote its all-new Sorento (and most of its Euro range of cars for that matter). It looks like an Audi and that’s a compliment, particularly for a non-premium vehicle – just look at those flashy LED rear lights or the robust-looking minimalist design.

Now in its third generation, the Sorento will make its debut at the Paris auto show on October 2, showing off its new body which is made up of 52.7 percent ultra-high tensile steel – that’s more than twice the ultra-high tensile steel the old model used; it also features more than twice the ultra-strong hot-stamped steel in its construction (up from 4.1 percent to 10.1 percent).

The global engine range will consist of units ranging in power from 172 to 270 PS. There’s a couple of petrol engines (a 2.4- and 3.3-liter) that most Old Continent buyers will know to steer clear of, as Kia’s diesels are very good. Future buyers will be given two options of how to burn oil: a 2.0-liter and a 2.2-liter, though only the latter will be available in Europe; it’s expected to be the big seller, obviously.

The new Sorento also promises improved refinement. NVH (noise vibration and harshness) are down a reported 3 to 6 percent thanks to an acoustic shield built into the timing chain as well as bigger transmission and engine mounts.

At the same time, ride and handling have both been improved – rear suspension-supporting subframe now “has larger bushings to better isolate it from the cabin and the larger shock absorbers are now mounted vertically behind the axle line, improving body control motion.”

Greater steering feel is promised too courtesy of “an all-new electric motor-driven power steering system (R-MDPS), available as either standard or optional equipment depending on country, is mounted directly onto the steering rack – rather than the steering column as on the outgoing model.”

It is, as you would expect, also safer and greener than before. Reviews (and time) will prove if all this work will pay off and result in a much better driving/ownership experience.

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