Nexen Tire to supply Roadian GTX to Kia's 2027 Sorento

Nexen Tire announced Monday that it will supply its Roadian GTX as an original equipment tire for the updated hybrid variant of Kia's midsize SUV, the Sorento, for the 2027 model year.

The refreshed model will be fitted with a new 20-inch Roadian GTX alongside the previously supplied 17-inch size, giving the Sorento hybrid two available specifications. The 17-inch tire will go to vehicles sold in South Korea and North America, while the 20-inch will be limited to the domestic market.

The Roadian GTX is an all-season tire developed specifically for SUVs. It delivers strong braking performance, snow traction and treadwear durability while maintaining balanced ride quality and low cabin noise.

The tire uses a specially formulated EMC designed to perform consistently across a wide range of temperatures, providing reliable braking and a comfortable ride regardless of season.

An enhanced mileage rating also extends the replacement interval, meeting the durability and efficiency demands of hybrid SUVs. Nexen Tire has previously supplied the Roadian GTX as original equipment for major domestic and global SUV models, including the Kia EV5 and EV6, the Renault Filante and the Jeep Cherokee.

Nexen Tire said it plans to use this supply expansion as a springboard to deepen partnerships with global automakers across the domestic and North American markets. The company already supplies original equipment tires to premium brands including Porsche, Mercedes-Benz, BMW and Audi, and continues to broaden its OE supply reach at home and abroad on the strength of its proven technology.

"This expansion of our OE supply demonstrates that our products' superior technology and quality continue to earn recognition in the global market," a Nexen Tire official said. "We will keep strengthening cooperation with global automakers and steadily grow our original equipment tire supply."

Meanwhile, Nexen Tire is running a range of marketing activities to expand its brand touchpoints, including participating in "Whateverland Series: Final Lap," a motorsport-themed event at Everland running through Oct. 31, where it is offering visitors hands-on experiences.