2025 Kia Sorento South African Version

• The 2025 Kia Sorento South African Version receives a bold facelift inspired by Kia EV9 and Telluride, with vertical LED headlights and a refreshed grille.

• Under the hood, it retains the 2.2 L CRDi diesel offering 148 kW (198 hp) and 440 Nm torque, routed through an 8-speed dual-clutch for FWD or AWD.

• New cabin tech includes dual 12.3″ screens, digital climate ribbon, and seven-seat versatility—priced from R999,995 for the base EX+ trim.

New Sorento Lands in South Africa in Q3 2025

Kia South Africa has launched the 2025 Kia Sorento South African Version, set to reach local dealers in the third quarter of 2025. Now dressed in Kia’s modern design language, it doesn’t drastically change form—it evolves from within. The familiar seven-seat, mid-size SUV now carries a sharper look and smarter tech, ready for families across the country.

Design That Pulls Focus

Look closer, and the front end shouts EV9 DNA. Vertical T-shaped LED headlights cut through the face, bisected by a wider ‘Tiger Nose’ grille. The bumpers are sleeker, the side profile unchanged—you’ll still get rugged SUV proportions, but with new wheel designs and joined tail lamps at the rear. The roofline stays clean, but it’s the lighting elements that give the facelift substance, not just fashion.

Diesel Heartbeat Still Strong

Under the bonnet, it’s business as usual. The Sorento South African version keeps the 2.2 L CRDi turbodiesel, offering brisk 148 kW and 440 Nm of torque. That muscle works through an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission, available in front-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive depending on trim. There are no plug-in or petrol engines here—just proven diesel grunt with character.

Cabin Tech for a Modern Family

Inside, the cabin gets a serious rebuild. The dash features two 12.3″ screens side by side—a slim, purposeful update with a touch-sensitive climate ribbon borrowed from the Sportage. Kia even moved the logo up to the bonnet, signifying brand confidence. Trims range from EX+ to SXL, loaded with gear: panoramic sunroof, wireless charging, Smart Cruise, heated leather seats, sunshade blinds, and a heads-up display in top spec. Bose audio? Standard at the SXL level.

Market Context: Competing Confidently

Priced from R999,995 for the EX+ AWD, the facelifted Sorento costs roughly R60,000 more than before. The SX jumps to R1,199,995, while the flagship SXL lands at R1,299,995. It slots neatly between the Mazda CX-9 and VW Tiguan in the South African market, offering more tech and seven-seat flexibility. And with Diesel's torque and DCT sharpness, it's a credible alternative for buyers in the local large SUV segment.

Final Thought

The 2025 Kia Sorento South African Version isn’t a revolution, but it doesn’t need to be. It’s a solid update: sharper lines, smarter tech, and still the diesel durability that local buyers trust. It looks the part, feels modern, and offers space without fuss. For families and road-trippers, that’s the tightest selling point.

Technical Specification – 2025 Kia Sorento South African Version

• Performance

  • Engine: 2.2 L CRDi turbo diesel

  • Power output: 202 PS (148 kW) @ 3,800 rpm

  • Torque: 440 Nm (325 lb‑ft) @ 1,750–2,750 rpm

  • Transmission: 8‑speed wet dual‑clutch automatic

  • Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive (EX+) or All-wheel drive (SX, SXL)

• Body Measurements

  • Length: ~ 4,810 mm (189.3 in)

  • Height: ~ 1,695 mm (66.7 in)

  • Wheelbase: 2,815 mm (110.8 in)

  • Seating capacity: 7 seats

• Powertrain

  • 2.2 L inline‑4 diesel with common‑rail injection

  • 8‑speed dual‑clutch automatic

  • Optional all-wheel-drive available on higher trim levels

• Capacities

  • Fuel economy: ~ 6.5 L/100 km combined

  • Cargo (seats up): ~ 616 L

  • Maximum tow rating: 2,500 kg (5,512 lb) braked

  • Roof load capacity: 100 kg

• Price (South Africa)

  • EX+ FWD: R 948,995

  • EX+ AWD: R 988,995

  • SX AWD: R 1,053,995

  • SXL AWD: R 1,133,995

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