The 2025 Kia Sorento has officially landed in South Africa, and with it comes a bold new chapter for the South Korean automaker. Gone are the days of Kia being just a value brand—the updated Sorento makes no apologies for crossing the R1 million price mark and stepping confidently into the premium SUV space. But does it offer enough to justify the sticker shock?
Let’s dive into what’s new, how it drives, and whether it stacks up against its rivals in South Africa’s competitive SUV segment.
What’s New in the 2025 Kia Sorento?
The 2025 Sorento is a mid-cycle refresh of the fourth-generation model built on Kia’s trusted N3 platform. At first glance, the changes may seem modest, but the updates—especially in styling and interior features—are significant.
Exterior Styling Enhancements:
- Vertical LED headlights and taillights for a more aggressive stance
- A raised, sculpted bonnet that adds road presence
- Redesigned 3D front grille and chunky bumper
- Sporty 20-inch dual-tone alloy wheels
- Chrome-trimmed rear diffuser integrated with tailpipes
The entire look leans into a more rugged, masculine design language, positioning the Sorento to appeal to buyers seeking both style and functionality.
Looking for more car reviews and automotive news in South Africa? Visit imotonews.co.za for detailed insights and updates on the latest launches.
Under the Hood: Power Without Hybrids
Unlike some rivals transitioning to hybrid powertrains, the Sorento sticks to what it knows best: diesel power. All variants are powered by a 2.2-litre turbodiesel inline-4 engine mated to an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
Engine Specs (All Trims):
- Power: 148 kW
- Torque: 440 Nm
- Fuel Type: Diesel
- Transmission: 8-speed DCT
- Drivetrain: AWD (SX and SXL), FWD (EX+)
Kia’s decision to forego hybrid tech in this model ensures that performance remains strong, especially in long-distance cruising and towing.
Trim Levels and Pricing (June 2025)
| Variant | Drivetrain | Price (ZAR) |
|---|---|---|
| Sorento EX+ 2.2 CRDi 8DCT | FWD | R999,995 |
| Sorento SX 2.2 CRDi 8DCT AWD | AWD | R1,199,995 |
| Sorento SXL 2.2 CRDi 8DCT AWD | AWD | R1,299,995 |
All variants come with a 5-year/unlimited km warranty and a 6-year/90,000 km maintenance plan, providing long-term peace of mind.
If you’re shopping for a pre-owned or nearly-new Sorento, check out listings at auto24.co.za. You’ll also find other top diesel-powered SUVs to compare in a similar price range.
Interior Features and Technology
Kia has doubled down on luxury, especially as the Sorento now targets the likes of the BMW X3, Audi Q5, and Mercedes-Benz GLC. Here’s a look at what you get inside:
Standard Features (EX+):
- Leather seats
- 12.3-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
- Wireless charging
- Dual-zone climate control
- Panoramic sunroof
- Cruise control
- 6-speaker sound system
Upgrades in Higher Trims:
- SX: Advanced driver assistance, smart tailgate
- SXL: 12-speaker Bose audio system, head-up display, ambient mood lighting
Across all trims, the leather-wrapped multifunction steering wheel, plush cabin materials, and ergonomic layout make for a truly premium driving experience.
Driving Experience: Comfort Meets Capability
Our drive through Sir Lowry’s Pass and Clarence Drive in the Western Cape offered an ideal mix of tarmac, twists, and gravel. The Sorento felt at home on all of it.
Key Driving Impressions:
- Strong mid-range torque makes overtaking smooth and effortless
- Refined suspension offers a comfortable ride without feeling floaty
- AWD versions handle gravel roads with confidence
- Cabin remains quiet, even under throttle
Although it’s not a true 4×4, the AWD system provides decent traction for dirt and wet surfaces—perfect for occasional countryside detours.
Planning road trips or exploring South Africa’s best routes? Browse expert travel guides and driving tips on imotonews.co.za to get inspired.
Car Care Tips for Sorento Owners
To keep your diesel-powered Sorento running smoothly in South African conditions:
- Use low-sulphur diesel from reputable stations to prevent DPF issues.
- Service every 10,000 km or as per schedule—especially if driving off-road or towing.
- Check tire pressure and alignment regularly, especially after gravel road use.
- Update the infotainment system software to access new features and maps.
- Keep brake pads and fluid levels in check, especially for AWD variants.
Final Verdict: Worth the Price?
While the 2025 Kia Sorento pushes past the R1-million mark, it offers a genuine alternative to European luxury SUVs. It’s powerful, tech-laden, spacious, and now more rugged-looking than ever before.
For South African buyers who want the luxury and capability of a premium SUV—without the inflated maintenance and optional extras—the Sorento makes a compelling case.
