Kia has enhanced its flagship SUV with a new third-generation model, adding sportier GT-Line trim and a new eight-speed automatic gearbox.

Pricing for the range starts at £28,995, with the GT-Line and GT-Line S versions available for £36,495 and £41,995 respectively.

By introducing these sportier trims, Kia hopes the Sorento will appeal to a premium market.

Both feature 19-inch alloy wheels, stainless steel side steps, ice cube-style front foglights, red brake calipers and twin exhaust pipes. GT-Line S adds LED headlights with a dynamic bending function.

Inside, there are black leather seats with light grey stitching, a perforated leather-trimmed steering wheel and a bespoke leather gearshifter.

Kia still offers the existing KX-1, KX-2 and KX-3 trims alongside the new GT-Line.

All versions have DAB and Bluetooth plus Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.  A reversing camera is available on all grades.

Moving up the range adds equipment such as heated seats, a premium sound system and a panoramic sunroof.

Advanced Smart Cruise Control, Blind Spot Detection, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Departure Warning, Around View Monitoring, Driver Alert Warning and Speed Limit Information Function are among the safety and convenience technologies available.

The new eight-speed automatic replaces the previous six-speed unit and offers improved economy of 43.5mpg while CO2 emissions are cut from 174g/km to 170.

A six-speed manual gearbox is available for a more frugal 49.6mpg, and CO2 emissions of 149g/km.

All versions are powered by a 200PS 2.2-litre turbodiesel engine with four wheel drive.

Pricing and CO2 emissions

Model	OTR	CO2 g/km
2.2 CRDi manual KX-1	£28,995	149
2.2 CRDi manual KX-2	£32,695	159
2.2 CRDi auto KX-2	£34,695	170
2.2 CRDi manual KX-3	£36,695	159
2.2 CRDi auto KX-3	£38,695	170
2.2 CRDi auto GT-Line	£36,495	170
2.2 CRDi auto GT-Line S	£41,995	170