With key safety features including front and rear head and front side airbags for the driver and passenger, as well as 4-Wheel ABS, 4-Wheel Disc Brakes, and Brake Assist, it’s easy to see why the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) gave the 2018 Kia Sorento a 5-star rating. The new model also received a Superior rating for front crash prevention from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), as well as Good ratings across the board on crash-worthiness.
Other safety features of the new Kia include:
- Electronic Stability Control
- Child Safety Locks
- Integrated Turn Signal Mirrors
- Traction Control
But there are few key aspects of the new model that really make it a safe ride, so here’s a rundown of the top four essential safety features of the 2018 Sorento.
Active Handling
Advanced active safety systems give you enhanced control using Electronic Stability Control (ESC), which offers precise handling, and added brake support from the Hill-Start Assist Control (HAC). These safety features allow the Sorento to constantly track and adapt to current driving conditions, taking the pressure off of you and allowing you to simply enjoy the ride.
Advanced Control
Control is a major feature of the Sorento, with the ESC keeping you on the right course as the Traction Control System (TCS) ensures you don’t experience wheel spin. In addition, the All-Wheel-Drive (AWD) models of the Sorento come with Torque Vectoring Corner Control (TVCC) that gives you enhanced stability and control when cornering.
Powerful Braking
Another excellent safety feature of the Sorento is the advanced braking system, which provides improved efficiency. Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) effortlessly adjusts the braking at both the front and rear, depending on the load in the car. In addition, the Brake Assist System (BAS) is able to sense emergency braking situations, responding by boosting braking pressure whenever it’s needed. Meanwhile, the HAC also works to keep your car in place during acceleration from a stopped position on inclines.
Passive Systems
As well as the active safety features, the Sorento comes with several excellent passive systems that will protect you in the event an accident does occur. The body of the car is crafted from advanced high-strength steel (53 percent), offering maximum protection. Structurally the car has been build using patented construction techniques, as well as industrial-strength adhesives, and a highly-advanced body designed for maximum rigidity.
An advanced airbag system includes sensors capable of detecting impact levels while determining if there is a front passenger, to ensure airbag inflation is perfectly managed according to the occupants of the car and severity of the incident. Height-adjustable seat-belt anchors at the front ensure the perfect fit, while pretensioners are able to tighten the seat belts during certain types of collision. Children are equally secure with a Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) system, allowing you to safely install child seats.
Overall the 2018 Kia Sorento is an excellent choice for safety, with powerful modern features and a keen eye for detail to keep you and your family safe, come what may.
Image by DomAlberts, used under CCO 1.0
Warranties include 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain and 5-year/60,000-mile basic. All warranties and roadside assistance are limited. See retailer for warranty details.