KIA takes a shot at the auto world by releasing the first 2011 product of the year…in 2010 Debuting 9 months early, they slam it down with outstanding lease offers, rebates of up to $2000 and 0% for 48 mos or 3.9% for 72 mos. Combined with the 10 year 100k power train warranty, you ask, what car is this?
Enter the all new, completely redesigned 2011 KIA SORENTO.
The fact is the new 2011 KIA SORENTO is a solid choice in a market crowded with no less than 155 choices between SUV and Crossover models, according to Edmunds.com IF you own a competitive product, KIA will give you $1000.00 to switch, add mini-vans and you have 200 autos to choose from.
All that aside, the new Sorento offers 3 package choices; Base, LX and EX in a 2wd and 4wd drive configuration. Skip the 172hp 4 cyl and grab the v6 with 273 hp. While fuel economy is not this models strong suit, neither is it a pig compared to Jeep and other similar 6cyl selections. The towing capacity is down from 5000lbs in previous Sorento versions, but rarely does the family pull more than 3500 lbs. with this type of suv. 4wheelers, jet skis, snowmobiles, pop-ups and small boats will travel just fine on the tail of this versatile carry-all. Speaking of seven passengers seating, these are real seats, albeit for children under twelve. The folding back row works like any traditional rear split bench, and has real headrests, unlike the goofy Outlander.
Built larger than most in the compact SUV/Crossover field: TOYOTA Venza, HYUNDAI Tucson and Nissan Roque, the 2011 Sorento delivers a ton of features including double moon-roof, intelligent stereo with text and email reading capability coming in 3rd quarter, heated leather seats, touch-button start, dual climate control, 18” rims, hill descent, traction control and back-up camera with park assist. All these luxury features for under $32k, WOW!
Yet silly LITTLE things we take for granted, are missing… NO home link for the garage door, NO power lift gate, NO memory seats and NO mirror in the sun-glass holder option that let’s me see the kids fighting in the rear seats.
The Sorento is reasonably quiet on the road, delivering solid handling and smooth ride on average roads. The engine responds with a surge when you press it from third to fourth and settles out nicely when cruising 80mph+. Visibility is good, no outrageous blind spots with the third row up and the larger side mirrors with marker lights are a good idea. I can’t wait for every vehicle to get the vehicle approach sensors in the side mirrors (Ford/Mazda), they are very addicting. The front seats are lacking in the bottom cushion and bolster design but they do offer a modicum of back support for those concerned about long trips. Only the driver’s seat has 8-way power adjustments.
I wish KIA had given the 2011 Sorento some of the cool interior design touches of the Kia Soul: mood lighting/contrasting fabric/leather colors and blue backlit digital gauges like the Kia Forte Koup.
The 2011 Sorento will appeal to a wide variety of clients; it would be nice to have a few more of the hip styling components to go with the technology promised later in the year. This vehicle has not yet been safety crash test rated. 19-29mpg is the average for the 4cyl. vs. 6 cyl., 2wd/4wd. I didn’t take it off road, so I defer the outward bound limitations for another day. However, as a solid family sport-ute it delivers on many levels for a great price, especially with the current incentives.
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Sarah Lee is an automotive executive with 20+ years of experience. She writes about Cars, and is a staunch consumer advocate on car related subjects. Her company: MY CARLADY is a car buyer’s service committed to getting you the best deal on your next new or pre-owned vehicle. You can reach her at www.mycarlady.com Top learn more about getting your best car deal click here: CAR DEALS
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