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KIA's 4th generation Sorento
Kia’s all-new 2020 Sorento, as yet unseen on Sri Lanka’s roads, has won the illustrious German automobile prize ‘Das Goldene Lenkrad’ or the ‘Golden Steering Wheel’, awarded to new car models annually by the tabloids ‘Auto Bild’ and ‘Bild am Sonntag.’
The fourth-generation edition of the Korean nameplate’s flagship SUV defeated two premium brands, the Aston Martin DBX and BMW X6 to win this coveted award in the ‘Large SUVs’ category. In the final round of the competition, the vehicles were tested at the DEKRA Lausitzring facility, one of Germany’s most famous racetracks.
Speaking of the new Kia SUV, Auto Bild Editor-in-Chief Tom Drechsler said: “The predecessor was already good, but the new Sorento is an evolution. It now drives just as smoothly as it looks. There is plenty of space, smart interior details, voice control, safety features – things that can be enjoyed everywhere. That is not just my opinion, but also that of the jury. Congratulations on a very well-deserved Goldene Lenkrad 2020.”
This is the second consecutive triumph for Kia at these awards, having received the ‘Das Goldene Lenkrad 2019’ for its XCeed compact crossover.
The new model was recognised for its modern design, innovative technologies and ample space. At 4.81 metres, the new Sorento is only one centimetre longer than its predecessor. However, thanks to its new platform and increased wheelbase, it offers space for up to seven occupants, depending on the market. It also has one of the largest luggage compartments in its segment, up to 910 litres, depending on vehicle specification. This spaciousness is enclosed in a dynamically elegant body, which has already gained the new model the ‘All-Wheel Drive Car of the Year 2020’ (Design category) award in the renowned competition organised by all-wheel drive specialists Auto Bild Allrad.
With the new generation model, the brand’s SUV flagship also takes a leading position in the Kia vehicle line-up for its technology. The wide range of driver assistance systems includes innovative technologies such as Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist with Blind-Spot View Monitor (depending on specification). This not only performs steering and braking interventions if needed, but also gives the driver a direct view of blind spots via side cameras and a fully digital instrument display.
Additionally, depending on specification, the new model is also available with Highway Driving Assist and Lane Follow Assist, Navigation-Based Smart Cruise Control, Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Junction Turning Function, Surround View Monitor and Safe Exit Assist. The large-format navigation system (up to 10.25 inches, depending on trim line) provides a wide range of useful information.
