In between everything that's going on with Kia Malaysia's ownership situation, it seems that at least one unit of the all-new 2021 Kia Sorento has landed in Malaysia. However, it might be a bit too early to expect its launch here anytime soon. 

You see, this MQ4-generation Sorento that was spotted in Shah Alam is actually a left-hand drive (LHD) unit. 

That in itself is a clue - Kia Motors Corporation has a regional training centre (for Asia Pacific) here in Malaysia, and this is very likely a training unit. To be clear, it doesn't mean that its launch is imminent - at least not until the ownership issue is settled, expected to be concluded by April.

Also read: AmInvest: Bermaz to conclude Kia deal by April 2021

What is the all-new Kia Sorento?

Having made its debut last year, the all-new Sorento is already in a few neighbouring countries, namely Singapore, Vietnam, and soon (before us?) Indonesia.

On the outside, the latest Sorento trades its old, rounded shape for an exterior that's characterised by sharp lines.

Also read: All-new 2020 Kia Sorento - 35 mm longer wheelbase, new 8-DCT, 227 hp/350 Nm hybrid, PHEV next

The eye-catching interior seats seven (with second-row captain seats), and up front there's two large screens - a 12.3-inch fully-digital instrument cluster and a 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system that supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. 

Also read: Why your next car should come with Android Auto or Apple CarPlay

Fancier additions for higher-end variants include a head-up display (HUD), 12-speaker Bose sound system, and ambient lighting. 

Safety-wise, the Sorento comes with 7 airbags, anti-lock braking system (ABS) and electronic stability control (ESC) as standard. More expensive variants come with several ADAS functions, namely:

• Forward collision warning (FCW)
• Lane keeping assist (LKA)
• Adaptive cruise control with Stop & Go (ACC)

Performance-wise, our neighbours' Sorento comes with a choice of two powertrains:

Both powertrains can be paired with either an all-wheel drive or front-wheel drive system, depending on the variant selected.