THIS is the third generation Kia Sorento, which the company says is “better equipped, more refined, stylish and technologically advanced” than ever before.

Six versions are now on sale, with prices starting at £28,795.

All versions of the new Sorento are powered by a 2.2-litre turbodiesel engine which produces fewer emissions and is more fuel-efficient.

The engine now develops 197bhp - an increase of 3bhp. Performance has been improved so that acceleration from 0-62mph now takes 9.0 seconds - 9.6 seconds for the automatic - and all versions have a top speed of 124mph.

All have a new, permanent, intelligent all-wheel drive system and a seven-seat interior.

There are four trim levels, KX-1, KX-2, KX-3 and KX-4. Depending on model, buyers have the choice of six-speed manual or automatic transmission.

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. Headroom and legroom have been improved and there is up to 90 litres more luggage capacity.

Safety and convenience technologies new to the Sorento 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.

All models are covered by the company’s seven-year or 100,000-mile transferable warranty.