Only available with seven seats in the UK, the new model brings increased interior and boot space along with enhanced practicality and new technologies.

The third-generation Sorento is longer, lower and wider than the previous model thanks to an all-new platform, while an extended wheelbase creates greater room in all three rows of seats. There is also up to 90 litres more luggage capacity.

Incorporating elements from the Cross GT concept at the 2013 Chicago Auto Show, the new Sorento retains familiar design cues like the shape of the D-pillar, but now has a sleeker profile.

At launch, only one engine will be available – a 197bhp 2.2-litre turbodiesel engine – with a choice of six-speed manual or automatic transmission along with the Dynamax all-wheel-drive system from the Sportage as standard. This is paired with Advanced Traction Cornering Control (ATCC) and Trailer Stability Assist on all versions.

Both manual and automatic models now come with Kia's Intelligent Stop & Go (ISG) engine stop/start system. Automatic versions also have Kia's Active ECO feature, which adjusts the operation of the engine and transmission to help achieve maximum fuel economy. As a result, manual models on 17-inch wheels have an official combined economy figure of 49.6mpg with CO2 emissions of 149g/km, while for all automatics the respective figures are 42.2mpg and 177g/km.

The new Sorento also brings new suspension systems at the front and rear, and is the company's first SUV to feature rack-mounted Motor Driven Power Steering (R-MDPS).

Meanwhile Drive Mode Select is also fitted to versions with automatic transmission. This allows the driver to select three steering modes and also modifies the automatic transmission shift pattern.

There are four trim levels, badged KX-1, KX-2, KX-3 and KX-4. Standard features include alloy wheels (17", 18" or 19" depending on grade), LED daytime running lights, front wiper de-icers, electrically adjustable, folding and heated door mirrors with LED indicators, steering wheel-mounted controls, cruise control with a speed limiter and reversing sensors. Safety kit includes Electronic Stability Control, Vehicle Stability Management, Trailer Assist, ABS with Electronic Brake Force Distribution and Brake Assist, six airbags, active front headrests, front seat belt pre-tensioners and load limiters and an active bonnet to protect pedestrians.

New technologies available include Advanced Smart Cruise Control, Blind Spot Detection, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Departure Warning, Around View Monitoring, Adaptive Front Lighting and Speed Limit Information.

UK versions of the new Sorento are built at Kia's Hwasung factory in Korea, and, come with the company's seven-year or 100,000-mile transferable warranty, subject to the exclusion of routine wear-and-tear items.

Prices start at £28,795 for the 2.2 CRDi 6-speed manual KX-1 and rise to £40,995 for the 2.2 CRDi 6-speed auto KX-4.