Kia Motors on Monday unveiled the exterior design of its Sorento R SUV, which has been named "New Sorento R" and is set to hit showrooms next month.

The New Sorento R offers an upgraded exterior and interior, an improved performance and greater convenience, according to Kia. The New Sorento R has been upgraded with an entirely new platform and features cutting-edge fuel efficiency, safety and comfort, the automaker said.

"Technically, it is an entirely new model in terms of function, design, mileage and new technological features," said a spokesman of the carmaker. "We expect the upgraded New Sorento to create quite a stir in the SUV market."

Meanwhile, the Sorento R has remained at the top of the domestic market for mid-sized SUVs in terms of sales since it is released in April 2009. Kia sold 42,480 units here in 2010 and 40,602 in 2011.