Kia Sorento

The all-new 2011 Kia Sorento boasts the carlike unibody construction that Americans crave, and it’s got most of the other bases covered.

Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options

The 2011 Kia Sorento is a crossover SUV offered in three trim levels: base, LX and EX. A third-row 50/50-split-folding seat with room for two is optional on the LX and four-cylinder EX, and standard on the EX V6.

The base model comes standard with a six-speed manual transmission, 17-inch alloy wheels, full power accessories, air-conditioning, a tilt-and-telescoping multifunction steering wheel, a trip computer, Bluetooth connectivity and a CD/MP3 audio system with satellite radio and a USB audio jack.

Moving up to the LX nets a six-speed automatic transmission, body-color heated outside mirrors with integrated LED turn signals, a second-row armrest with cupholder, and the option of adding the Convenience package, which includes foglamps, roof rails, rear parking sensors, heated front seats, and a back-up camera with a rearview-mirror-mounted display.

The EX starts with the LX’s equipment and adds 18-inch alloy wheels, keyless ignition/entry, dual-zone automatic climate control (with rear air-conditioning on V6 models) and a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob.

Powertrains and Performance

All Sorento trim levels come standard with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine rated at 175 horsepower and 169 pound-feet of torque. The base model has a six-speed manual transmission, while the others get a six-speed automatic. Optional on the EX model is a 3.5-liter V6 rated at 276 hp and 248 lb-ft of torque.

The AWD system comes with a locking center differential to improve low-speed traction in icy or off-road situations. Fuel economy estimates range from 21 mpg city/29 mpg highway for front-drive four-cylinder Sorentos with the automatic to 19/25 for the all-wheel-drive EX V6.

Safety

The 2011 Kia Sorento comes standard with antilock disc brakes, stability control, hill-start assist, hill descent control, front seat side airbags, full-length side curtain airbags and front active head restraints.

Interior Design and Special Features

The Sorento’s interior is class-competitive in both design and materials, with a look that is restrained but sophisticated. The front seats are comfortable on long trips and provide the commanding view of the road that crossover buyers love, and the inviting second-row seat accommodates three passengers easily. The optional third-row seat (standard on EX V6) features 50/50-split-folding seatbacks and enough room for adults.

Find the amazing 2011 Kia Sorento available at your Maine Kia dealer, Bill Dodge Kia!


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