The Kia Sorento III facelift, produced from 2018 to 2020, represented a significant refresh of Kia’s popular mid-size SUV. Among the engine options available, the 2.2 CRDi variant, producing 200 horsepower and offered with seven seats, was a key offering, particularly in European and Asian markets. This version aimed to balance fuel efficiency, practicality, and a reasonable level of performance for family transportation. It sat in the mid-to-upper range of the Sorento lineup, offering more power and refinement than the base engine options while remaining more accessible than potential future high-performance trims. The facelift brought updated styling, improved technology, and refinements to the existing powertrain options.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Kia |
| Model | Sorento |
| Generation | Sorento III (facelift 2018) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.2 CRDi (200 Hp) 7 Seat |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| End of production | 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.7-6.9 l/100 km (35.1 – 34.1 US mpg, 42.2 – 40.9 UK mpg, 14.9 – 14.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.9-5.0 l/100 km (48 – 47 US mpg, 57.6 – 56.5 UK mpg, 20.4 – 20 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.6-5.7 l/100 km (42 – 41.3 US mpg, 50.4 – 49.6 UK mpg, 17.9 – 17.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 147-149 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 205 km/h (127.38 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.4 kg/Hp, 106.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.2 kg/Nm, 240.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 200 Hp @ 3800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 91 Hp/l |
| Torque | 450 Nm @ 1750-2750 rpm (331.9 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | D4HB |
| Engine displacement | 2199 cm3 (134.19 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 85.4 mm (3.36 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 96 mm (3.78 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 9.1 l (9.62 US qt | 8.01 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1874 kg (4131.46 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2530 kg (5577.7 lbs.) |
| Max load | 656 kg (1446.23 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 142 l (5.01 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1662 l (58.69 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 71 l (18.76 US gal | 15.62 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2500 kg (5511.56 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Length | 4800 mm (188.98 in.) |
| Width | 1890 mm (74.41 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2140 mm (84.25 in.) |
| Height | 1685-1690 mm (66.34 – 66.54 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2780 mm (109.45 in.) |
| Front track | 1628-1633 mm (64.09 – 64.29 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1639-1644 mm (64.53 – 64.72 in.) |
| Front overhang | 945 mm (37.2 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1075 mm (42.32 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 185 mm (7.28 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.34 m (37.2 ft.) |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 235/65 R17; 235/60 R18; 235/55 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.0J x 17; 7.5J x 18; 7.5J x 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Sorento variant is the D4HB 2.2-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine is a member of Kia/Hyundai’s robust diesel family, known for its durability and relatively refined operation. The D4HB utilizes a cast iron block and aluminum cylinder head, a common configuration for diesel engines prioritizing strength and thermal management. It employs a common-rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressures for optimized combustion and reduced emissions. A variable geometry turbocharger (VGT) with an intercooler is crucial to its performance, providing a broad torque curve and minimizing turbo lag. The engine also features a diesel particulate filter (DPF) to meet stringent Euro 6 emission standards. The 6-speed manual transmission was the standard offering, chosen for its efficiency and driver engagement, although an optional automatic transmission was available in some markets.
Driving Characteristics
The 200 horsepower and 450 Nm (331.9 lb-ft) of torque delivered by the 2.2 CRDi engine provided the Sorento with adequate performance for everyday driving and long-distance journeys, even when fully loaded with passengers and luggage. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 8.3 seconds, which was competitive for its class. The engine’s strong low-end torque made it particularly well-suited for overtaking maneuvers and tackling inclines. Compared to the lower-powered 1.6-liter diesel options, the 2.2 CRDi offered a noticeably more relaxed driving experience, requiring less frequent gear changes. While not a sports SUV, the 2.2 CRDi provided a confident and composed ride, aided by the well-tuned suspension. The manual transmission, while engaging, had a slightly longer throw than some competitors.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.2 CRDi 7-seat Sorento typically came with a generous level of standard equipment. This included air conditioning, a touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, alloy wheels, and a suite of safety features such as ABS, ESC, and multiple airbags. Higher trim levels added features like leather upholstery, heated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking. The seven-seat configuration was a key selling point, offering flexibility for families. Interior materials were generally of good quality, reflecting Kia’s increasing focus on interior refinement.
Chassis & Braking
The Sorento III utilized a front-wheel-drive platform, although all-wheel drive was available as an option. The front suspension employed a McPherson strut setup, while the rear featured a multi-link independent suspension, providing a good balance of ride comfort and handling. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, providing adequate stopping power. The steering was electrically assisted, offering a light and precise feel. The chassis was designed to prioritize stability and comfort, rather than outright sportiness.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2.2 CRDi Sorento was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and strong engine performance. Fuel economy was also a strong point, with combined figures around 5.6-5.7 l/100 km. Compared to competitors like the Hyundai Santa Fe and Nissan X-Trail, the Sorento offered a compelling combination of value, practicality, and refinement. The 2.2 CRDi engine was often considered the sweet spot in the Sorento range, offering a good balance between performance and fuel efficiency. Some critics noted that the interior design, while functional, lacked the visual flair of some rivals.
Legacy
The Kia Sorento III, particularly the 2.2 CRDi variant, has proven to be a reliable and durable vehicle. The D4HB engine, while requiring regular maintenance (including DPF regeneration), is generally known for its longevity. On the used car market, these Sorentos represent a good value proposition, offering a lot of space and practicality for the price. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential costs associated with DPF maintenance and ensure that the vehicle has been properly serviced. The Sorento III helped to solidify Kia’s reputation as a manufacturer of well-built, reliable, and affordable SUVs.
