Kia Philippines is not in a hurry to go against the titans of the midsize sport utility vehicle segment despite bringing the all-new Sorento in the local market.
Kia Philippines President Manny Aligada made the claim during an exclusive interview with Carmudi Philippines, citing as one of the reasons why it does not offer a 4x4 option for the newly-introduced model.
“It will not be fighting toe-to-toe with the volumes of the active players, at least for now. And you will see that the two variants we have are really meant for the cut in the executive class,” he said.
“Volume-wise, it is not as big as the volume of the others, admittedly. But for those who are looking for an everyday workhorse while enjoying the technology of the car — even with the whole family — and of course the ride, for the driver and the family, the Sorento fits the bill,” Aligada said.
He also said that unlike most of the models offered in the same segment, the all-new Sorento offers elegance and comfortability for every occupant.
“We have placed full technology in it because we feel that it is meant for the segment of midsize SUV that is very discriminating. So, this is for the executive-level,” Aligada explained. “You will see the appointments are very premium. And of course, what the others don’t have is the ride of the Sorento. Very comfortable. You’re an executive, you deserve an executive feel.”
Compared to the outgoing version, the all-new Sorento grew across all aspects: it is now 30mm longer, 20mm wider and 5mm taller with an additional 35mm wheelbase.
The standard amenities found in the all-new Kia Sorento include the eight-inch touchscreen audio (that is Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatible) mated to a six-speaker system, electric second row backrest folding, smart entry and push start, dual-zone automatic climate control and power tailgate.
Aside from that, the top-of-the line trim features power seats with driver memory, front seat cooling and heating, heated steering wheel, 12.3-inch LCD instrument cluster and wireless mobile phone charger.
During the virtual brand launch, Aligada described the all-new Sorento as “an expression of success, achievement and purpose.”
The Ayala-backed distributor of the fourth-generation model, which will be available in showrooms by the fourth week of November, is now accepting reservations.
Photos from Kia Philippines
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Source: Kia PH to launch all-new Sorento on Nov. 8
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