Kia Sorento Body Kit Installation Review

Upgrade Your Kia Sorento with a Body Kit

Many SUV owners face challenges with vehicle accessibility and protection. For the Kia Sorento, a popular choice for families, these concerns are often amplified due to its higher stance. This review delves into the benefits and process of installing a body kit, specifically focusing on how it can improve ease of use and vehicle aesthetics, drawing insights from a recent installation on a Sorento.

Why Consider a Body Kit for Your Sorento?

Installing a body kit, often referred to as an aero kit, offers more than just a visual refresh for your Kia Sorento. The primary advantage is significantly improved accessibility. For instance, adding side steps can lower the entry point by approximately 15cm, making it much easier for children, the elderly, or anyone to get in and out of the vehicle. Beyond convenience, body kits provide crucial vehicle protection. Side skirts, for example, can protrude slightly beyond the door panels, acting as a buffer against minor impacts like 'door dings' in parking lots. Lastly, a well-designed body kit contributes to a sporty aesthetic upgrade. It can visually lower the vehicle's profile, giving it a more dynamic and refined appearance.

Kia Sorento Body Kit Installation Process

The installation process for a body kit on a Kia Sorento is typically straightforward, especially when using genuine parts designed for the vehicle. The process generally involves:

1. Preparation: The vehicle is inspected, and the areas where the body kit components will be attached are cleaned and prepared.
2. Component Mounting: Using pre-existing brackets or designated mounting points on the Sorento's chassis, the new body kit parts (like front lips or side skirts) are securely fastened.
3. Securing and Alignment: All components are carefully aligned to ensure a perfect fit and then firmly secured to the vehicle's frame.
4. Final Checks: The installation is completed with a thorough check to ensure all parts are stable and properly fitted, with no adverse effects on the vehicle's existing systems.

This method ensures that the vehicle's structural integrity and durability are maintained, as no significant modifications or additional wiring are usually required when using OEM-compatible parts.

Before and After: The Sorento Transformation

The visual impact of a body kit on a Kia Sorento is noticeable. Before installation, the Sorento presents its standard SUV profile. After the body kit, particularly with the addition of side steps, the vehicle appears lower and more grounded. The front bumper area often integrates more smoothly with the lower body, creating a cohesive and aggressive stance. The side skirts enhance the vehicle's profile, making it look more athletic. Furthermore, the slight protrusion of elements like side steps offers practical benefits, such as protection against minor impacts. The overall effect is a more premium and sporty look, significantly upgrading the vehicle's aesthetic appeal without compromising its inherent functionality.

Body Kit Cost, Durability, and Value

The cost for genuine side steps for a Kia Sorento typically ranges from 300,000 to 500,000 Korean Won (approximately $220-$370 USD, subject to exchange rates), with installation labor being an additional cost. While this review focused on side steps, full body kits can vary widely in price depending on the manufacturer and complexity. Installation usually takes between 2 to 3 hours, allowing for same-day completion. Genuine body kit components are designed for longevity, offering durability comparable to the vehicle's original parts, meaning they can last for many years with minimal maintenance. The decision of whether a body kit is 'worth it' depends on individual priorities. For owners seeking enhanced accessibility, improved aesthetics, and minor protective benefits, a body kit can be a valuable investment that elevates the driving and ownership experience of their Kia Sorento.