2015 Kia Sorento detailed

Kia confirms third-generation Sorento SUV specifications ahead of Paris debut.

Kia's new Sorento large SUV has received its second online unveiling ahead of the model's public debut at this week's Paris motor show.

The new model promises to bring new levels of style, comfort, refinement and quality to the Sorento nameplate when it goes on sale in 2015.

The third-generation seven-seater adopts an evolution of Kia's now familiar 'tiger-nose' grille at the front with interconnected headlights which wrap around the sides of the vehicle.

The trademark Sorento styling cues are still there though, with the long bonnet, rear-set cabin and thick D-pillars all familiar.

At 4870mm long, the new model is 95mm longer than before and 5mm wider, while height has been reduced by 15mm to 1685mm.

The wheelbase has also been stretched by 80mm to 2780mm, which has resulted in increased interior dimensions and, despite the car being lower than before, headroom for all three rows of seating has increased.

Cargo space has also swollen by 90-litres to 605-litres VDA with the third-row seats folded flat.

The interior design of the new model is claimed to be more luxurious than before with higher quality materials throughout.

Adopting a clean and uncluttered aesthetic, the new Sorento features a central display with a leather-look dashboard and high-gloss trim that aim to give an upmarket feel.

Kia claim the new third-generation Sorento SUV is significantly more refined than the outgoing model, offering a quieter driving environment.

Compared to the current model, the new Sorento benefits from a 14 per cent stiffer body shell, while thicker dashboard material and larger engine and transmission mounts are said to result in less engine noise and vibration.

The Sorento uses the same suspension setup as its Hyundai Santa Fe mechanical cousin, with MacPherson struts up front and double wishbones at the rear.

The suspension design is effectively a development of that fitted to the outgoing Sorento, however the new model benefits from larger rear sub frame bushes, and its rear shock absorbers mounted vertically for improved body control.

Engine options for the Australian market will be the 3.3-litre petrol V6 and 147kW/441Nm 2.2-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel, with either a 6-speed manual or automatic transmission driving all four wheels.

Safety features offered on the new Sorento include, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, blind spot detection, rear cross traffic alert and a speed limit display.

Local pricing and specifications are yet to be confirmed, but the new 2015 Sorento expected to go on sale in Australia early next year.