2017 Kia Sorento adds safety features, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for US market

A lightly updated 2017 Kia Sorento has been revealed for the US market this week, bringing a number of safety enhancements and support for the Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity platforms.

With the South Korean car maker ushering in the updated Sorento – this particular version bound for the US – it has also been revealed that the SUV will be available to order with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Despite being optimised for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, current-generation Sorentos are not yet offered with the technology.

This latest update is also expected to make a retroactive software update available to existing owners, allowing for a dealer visit and an upgrade to the new connectivity features.

Speaking with CarAdvice this week, Kia Australia’s Kevin Hepworth said the car maker will hopefully offer local models, built during the second half of this year, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as a factory-fit standard feature.

Two new packages have also been added to the US-badged L and LX range: Active Touring and Advance Technology.

Updated US model pictured throughout

On top of the current range of safety features, the two entry-level models will get autonomous emergency braking, advanced smart cruise control, forward collision warning, rear cross-traffic alert and dynamic bending lights.

These features come as standard on the range-topping Sorento SXL, known here as the Platinum.

Otherwise, the 2017 Sorento remains unchanged, with specifications and powertrain offerings carrying over into the next model year.

Kia Australia can’t yet confirm whether the Advanced Touring and Active technology will be on offer to prospective buyers of the locally-branded Si and SLi models.