Visiting Kia’s stand in Frankfurt means checking out not only the spectacular Proceed Concept, but also the facelifted Sorento.

Unveiled in Euro-spec last week, the carmaker’s flagship SUV sports the same visual updates as its Korean sibling, which make it look classier and give it a better chance of keeping up with its Hyundai-badged rival, the Santa Fe.

Exterior revisions include the LED front and rear lighting units, tweaked bumpers on both ends, dark-metallic look grille, and new wheels, up to 19-inch in size. Kia has also upgraded the color palette with two new shades, called Gravity Blue and Rich Espresso.

Additional soft-touch materials and new leather trim have been added to the cabin, while the steering wheel, instrument cluster, and climate control display have been tweaked. Furthermore, smartphone connectivity for Apple and Android users is now part of the offerings, with an 8.0-inch infotainment system on standby.

Buyers can opt for an 8-speed automatic transmission, which replaces the previous 6-speed auto, but only on Sorentos equipped with a 2.2-liter diesel engine.

Also joining the lineup is a new ‘GT Line’ version of the SUV, with additional exterior and interior updates.

Kia will launch the 2018 Sorento in Europe in the coming weeks.

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