The Kia Sorento III (facelift, introduced in 2018) 2.4 GDI 188 hp Automatic represents a mid-cycle refresh of the third-generation Sorento, a crossover SUV produced by the South Korean manufacturer Kia. This variant, available from 2018 to 2020, was positioned as a mainstream offering within the Sorento lineup, aiming to balance fuel efficiency, practicality, and a reasonable level of performance for family transportation. It primarily targeted the North American and European markets, where three-row SUVs were gaining significant popularity. The facelift brought updated styling, improved safety features, and refinements to the powertrain, including the 2.4-liter GDI engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Kia |
| Model | Sorento |
| Generation | Sorento III (facelift 2018) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.4 GDI (188 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| End of production | 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 12.3 l/100 km (19.1 US mpg, 23 UK mpg, 8.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7 l/100 km (33.6 US mpg, 40.4 UK mpg, 14.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.9 l/100 km (26.4 US mpg, 31.7 UK mpg, 11.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 202 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 196 km/h (121.79 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.4 kg/Hp, 106.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.3 kg/Nm, 136.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 188 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 79.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 241 Nm @ 4000 rpm (177.75 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | G4KJ |
| Engine displacement | 2359 cm3 (143.96 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 88 mm (3.46 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 97 mm (3.82 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11.3:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.8 l (5.07 US qt | 4.22 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.7 l (8.14 US qt | 6.78 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1768 kg (3897.77 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2510 kg (5533.6 lbs.) |
| Max load | 742 kg (1635.83 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 660 l (23.31 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1732 l (61.17 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%) | 2000 kg (4409.25 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 | 1633 mm (64.29 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1644 mm (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.) |
| Approach angle | 16.9° |
| Departure angle | 21° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 18° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| 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 |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 235/65 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.0J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Sorento variant is the G4KJ 2.4-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline direct injection (GDI) engine. This engine is part of Kia’s Gamma family, known for its relatively lightweight construction and focus on efficiency. The GDI system delivers fuel directly into the combustion chamber, allowing for more precise fuel control and improved combustion efficiency compared to port fuel injection. The engine utilizes a dual continuously variable valve timing (CVVT) system, optimizing valve timing for both intake and exhaust to enhance performance and fuel economy across the engine’s operating range. The engine produces 188 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 241 Nm (177.75 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm. Paired with the engine is a six-speed automatic transmission, chosen for its smooth shifting and suitability for everyday driving. This transmission is a conventional torque converter automatic, prioritizing comfort and ease of use over outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.4 GDI engine with the six-speed automatic provides adequate, but not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes approximately 9.7 seconds, making it suitable for typical commuting and highway merging. The automatic transmission is tuned for comfort, with relatively smooth gear changes. However, it can sometimes feel hesitant during quick acceleration or when attempting to downshift for passing maneuvers. Compared to the available turbocharged engines in the Sorento lineup, this 2.4L variant offers less power and torque, resulting in a more relaxed driving experience. The gear ratios are optimized for fuel efficiency, which contributes to the combined fuel economy of 26.4 US mpg. The front-wheel-drive configuration contributes to a slightly less engaging driving experience compared to all-wheel-drive models, but it also helps to reduce weight and improve fuel economy.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.4 GDI Automatic trim typically included standard features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, a touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, a rearview camera, and basic safety features like ABS and stability control. Higher trim levels added features like leather upholstery, heated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and advanced driver-assistance systems such as blind-spot monitoring and lane departure warning. Interior upholstery was typically cloth on the base trims, with leather options available on higher-spec models. Dashboard configuration was consistent across the range, featuring a user-friendly layout with intuitive controls.
Chassis & Braking
The Sorento III utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable ride quality. The suspension is tuned to prioritize comfort over sporty handling. Front brakes are ventilated discs, while rear brakes are solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, providing enhanced braking performance in emergency situations. The steering is electrically assisted, offering light and easy steering feel. The vehicle’s weight of approximately 1768 kg (3897.77 lbs) influences its handling characteristics, making it feel less agile than lighter competitors.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2.4 GDI Automatic Sorento was generally well-received as a practical and affordable family SUV. Critics praised its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and good value for money. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked the punch of the turbocharged options and that the transmission could be slow to respond at times. Compared to the 2.0L Turbocharged engine, the 2.4L offered lower initial cost but sacrificed performance. The 2.4L also offered better fuel economy than the V6 engine option, but with significantly less power. Reliability reports generally indicate that the G4KJ engine is reasonably reliable, although some owners have reported issues with oil consumption over time.
Legacy
The Kia Sorento III (2018 facelift) 2.4 GDI Automatic remains a popular choice in the used car market due to its affordability, practicality, and relatively good reliability record. While not the most exciting vehicle to drive, it provides a comfortable and dependable transportation solution for families. The G4KJ engine, while not without its minor issues, has proven to be a durable and long-lasting powerplant when properly maintained. The availability of parts and service is good, making it a relatively easy vehicle to own and maintain. As a mid-range trim, it strikes a balance between features and price, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers.
