Kia Sorento

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World premiere of Carnival MPV, hatchback concept and 2006 Sorento SUV

Kia Motors Corporation will reveal three exciting new vehicles when the 76th Salon de l’Automobiles, one of Europe’s most prestigious motor shows, opens at the end of this month in Geneva, Switzerland.

All-new Kia Carnival

The all-new Kia Carnival MPV (short body), which makes its world premiere at Geneva, will go on sale this summer. The Carnival (‘Sedona’ in some markets) has been redesigned from the ground up and will be available with powered twin sliding rear doors and a powered tailgate.

Taller, wider but shorter than the previous model, the new short-wheelbase version of the all-new Carnival long-wheelbase, which was introduced in North America and the general markets last year, has been created especially with European consumers in mind. It will bring customers new benefits in the key areas of cabin space, seating comfort, interior build quality, accommodation versatility and overall packaging, so important to MPV buyers. Seven individual seats are mounted in a 2+3+2 layout and all five middle and back row seats can be individually moved, reclined, folded or removed.

With a thoroughly modern appearance outside and inside the vehicle, improved performance and enhanced fuel economy are assured with a choice of two new 185 ps gasoline and diesel engines. To make city driving even easier, Kia’s unique new variable rack stroke (VRS) steering system further reduces the turning radius.

Exciting New Concept

An all-new concept car, based on a five-door C-segment hatchback design, will make its world premiere on press day at the show.

Upgraded 2006 Kia Sorento

Kia has given its popular 4x4 Sorento SUV a healthy power boost for both the diesel and gasoline engines, plus the addition of several significant comfort, quality and safety features and a refreshed appearance.

In Europe, the 2006 Sorento offers consumers a choice of two high-power engines -- a 170 ps diesel with 21% more power and an advanced variable geometry turbocharger or a new, fuel-efficient 3.3-litre V6 gasoline unit that punches out more than 235 ps.

Inside, the center stack and center floor console are revised with a neater layout and higher quality materials. In the rear, legroom is increased by reshaping the backs of the front seats, and the rear seats are now more easily adjustable.

The bold exterior has always given the Sorento a formidable on-road presence and for 2006, Kia’s creative team has given the SUV a more contemporary image that is both elegant and confident. One of Kia’s biggest success stories, the Sorento was one of Kia’s best sellers globally with nearly 144,000 units sold in 2005.

Full details of all three models will be available at the Kia press conference for the 76th Salon de l’Automobiles on February 28 at Hall 5 at 12:30 p.m. local time.