Sorento, Carnival, and Sportage Black Edition: Beyond Color Changes to Differentiated UI and Interior Materials

Kia has unveiled the 'Black Edition' applied to three models—Sorento, Carnival, and Sportage—at Kia Unplugged Ground in Seongsu-dong. This Black Edition is characterized by implementing a differentiated sense of luxury, going beyond simply changing the exterior color to black by applying exclusive wheels, dark metal materials, interior finishes, and even exclusive UI (User Interface) graphics. Kia Unplugged Ground, located in Seongsu-dong, has transformed from a conventional new car launch space into a complex cultural space where family visitors can stay, offering experiences such as listening to LPs, enjoying PlayStation games, spaces for children, and coffee.

Sorento Black Edition, 20-inch Exclusive Wheels Applied Even to Hybrid Models

The Sorento Black Edition, which is garnering the highest interest, has built a solid and sophisticated image by utilizing various exterior textures. Black points were applied to the bumper and grille molding lines, and the sense of three-dimensionality was increased by mixing matte black and glossy black. A particularly notable change is the wheels. While the existing Sorento hybrid model was only available with up to 19-inch wheels, in this Black Edition, the 20-inch exclusive wheels can now be selected even for the hybrid trim. A cover was applied near the emblem so that the nuts are not visible, completing an even more luxurious exterior.

The chrome decorations on the side have been replaced with high-gloss black, and the roof rails and the upper part of the door handles are also treated in black. Beyond the exterior, the interior changes are also significant. The sense of luxury was enhanced by adding quilting details to the Nappa leather seats, and the ceiling (headliner) was finished with suede material. Additionally, an exclusive display theme for the Black Edition was applied to complete the visual consistency. The video evaluated that while the existing design of the Sorento looked somewhat complex, the Black Edition improved this sophisticatedly through the use of two textures of black.

Carnival Black Edition, 2027 Model Year Change and Enhanced Convenience Features

The Carnival Black Edition is released as a 2027 model year change, and convenience features have been greatly enhanced to suit the characteristics of a vehicle type with many long-distance drives. A 12.3-inch navigation and Highway Driving Assist functions have been applied as standard to all trims, and LED real lamps have also become standard for all trims. Furthermore, new Type-C USB ports capable of 25W fast charging have been installed in all seats from the 1st row to the 3rd row. The Kia emblem on the exterior is treated in white to create a contrast with the black body, revealing the brand identity.

In terms of interior design, black seats were applied for consumers who had previously felt regret over the absence of black seats. The floor mats and ceiling finish were also unified in black. In particular, meticulous details were added, such as applying a lamp that helps with fastening seatbelts during night driving. The video explained that the interior of the Carnival Black Edition has an effect of suppressing the surroundings to make the passengers stand out more, and is characterized by the consistency provided by the black seats and black pad finish.

Sportage Black Edition, Harmony of Exclusive Graphics and Suede Finish

The Sportage Black Edition maximized the contrast between 'light' and 'darkness' in the interior. Through ambient lights and dark chrome decorations, it was designed so that key elements stand out more within the dark interior atmosphere. The biggest feature is the change in display graphics. Rather than simply changing the background color, exclusive graphics and icon designs were newly implemented so that the specialness of the Black Edition can be felt. The background color of the navigation map was also changed to match the black theme to increase consistency, and the primary color black was used in harmony with the secondary colors orange and teal.

The premiumization of interior materials is also notable. The steering wheel and gear knob were treated with leather to improve grip, and suede material was applied even to the inside of the sun visor to improve the tactile feel. The 'Black Edition' text was engraved on the seats to add specialness, and a differentiated quilting pattern creates a luxurious atmosphere. In the video, this change in display graphics was compared to the 'skin of the car,' emphasizing it as an important factor that provides psychological satisfaction to the user that they are riding in a special car.

According to Kim Han-yong's MOCAR video, this exclusive display theme for the Black Edition can be received for free through the Kia Connect Store. However, detailed specifications may vary depending on the vehicle model, trim, and seat configuration.