Kia has released a limited edition version of its new Sorento to launch the recent facelift of its mid-size SUV model. The Sorento is a success story for Kia, with nearly 144,000 units sold worldwide during 2005.

The new Sorento offers more power from its larger 3.8-litre engine, along with several comfort, safety and running gear refinements and a refreshed appearance.

The major change to Sorento is the new engine, with Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT), which now generates 196 kW @ 6,000 rpm (an increase of 35 percent) and 353 Nm @ 4,500rpm (an increase of almost 20 percent), driving through a five-speed tiptronic-style automatic transmission.

Inside the new Sorento, the dashboard and centre console have been revised with a neater layout and new materials. In the rear passenger compartment, legroom has been increased by reshaping the backs of the front seats and the rear seats are now more easily adjustable.

The "Global Circuit" edition of the facelifted Kia Sorento will be a limited run of 400, produced to honour the record-breaking solo crossing of Europe, Russia and Siberia by Swedish adventurer Christer Gerlach.

The Kia Sorento "Global Circuit", as shown by Kia on their stand at the 2006 Sydney Motor Show features part-time 4WD, ABS brakes with Electronic Brake force Distribution, dual front airbags, active headrestraints, limited slip differential, air conditioning, power steering, power windows, power mirrors, eight-speaker CD system, standard DVD player and a front nudge bar.