Overlanding used to be reserved for only the hardiest 4×4 rigs in the world. However, as more people engage with the hobby, the kinds of vehicles utilized for overlanding expands. Now it’s not uncommon to see all-wheel drive vans and crossovers out on the trail.
And perhaps there are no better examples than Kia’s new Sorento concept vehicles, the Yosemite and Zion Editions. Granted, these two rigs weren’t built expressly for overlanding. It’s not hard to imagine them being easily outfitted for overlanding.
Both builds are based on the all-new 2021 Kia Sorento, which include an advanced all-wheel drive system that has a new Snow Mode. In addition to being based on the same model, the builds are both broadly similar. Both have 20-inch wheels wrapped with 32-inch all-terrain tires. And they’ve been fitted with custom skid plates and brush guards. The result of these changes are improved approach and departure angles as well as 8.3-inches of ground clearance, which isn’t bad.
READ MORE: WHAT ARE THE BEST WAYS TO CARRY FUEL ON AN OVERLAND JOURNEY?
The distinctions between the builds begin with their color schemes, which reflect their design intention. Yosemite is finished in “Pine Green” matte paint and was crafted to enable a mountain-living lifestyle. Zion is slathered in “Desert Sand” matte paint and built for, as Kia put it, “stomping dunes.” In addition, Yosemite features heavy duty crossbars and the Zion has been fitted with a full-length cargo topper.
These rigs were built to demonstrate what Kia customers can do with their new Sorentos, which hit dealer showrooms this month. New port- and dealer-installed options include roof crossbars, tow hitches, and side steps.
Although I am not saying the new Sorento is the ideal platform for overland build, these concepts show us that, when outfitted right, they can be both handsome and outdoor-capable.
Header image: Kia
