New 2011 Kia Sorento Offers Exceptional Mileage for Seven Passengers
Completely redesigned, the all-new 2011 Kia Sorento returns to offer a more comfortable ride and an impeccable value. Early reports suggest that this new entry into the compact SUV vehicle class is one of the best all-around options for the year. Learn about the specs, features and gas mileage of the new 2011 Kia Sorento to discover why so many car reviewers are endorsing this energetic SUV.
New 2011 Kia Sorento Styling
While the previous Sorento came with an uninspired design that was far from memorable, Kia corrects this on the new model with crisp, angular lines and a bold front end. While certainly not the most aggressively styled compact SUV on the road, the smart visual upgrades help give the Sorento an identity that most drivers can get on board with.
On the inside, the first thing worth noting is the availability of third-row seating. This extra passenger space is rare in the compact class, and serves as a big plus for those who need the extra rump room. An interior cabin that is larger than most competitors in the class helps accommodate this third-row of seating. Front- and second-row passengers should find plenty of comfort, even on the occasional road trip. The third-row seating should be reserved for kiddoes only.
In terms of interior quality, the Kia Sorento offers a lot for the money. Fit and finish is competitive with class leaders and standard features offer a fair degree of pampering. These features include air conditioning, satellite radio, Bluetooth and power locks, windows and mirrors.
New 2011 Kia Sorento Performance
Suburb drivers will rejoice to learn the new Kia Sorento has lost its truck-based architecture. Kia has swapped this more rugged frame for a car-based chassis that dramatically improves ride comfort. Climb behind the wheel, and you'll find yourself piloting an SUV that takes bumps easily and maneuvers like a car.
This serene drive is accommodated by one of two engine options. The base 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine outputs 175 horsepower and 169 lb-ft. of torque. The peppy performance offered by this engine proves more than adequate for most daily commutes. However, for an additional boost in power, car shoppers have the option to upgrade to a 3.5-liter V-6. This engine, which is one of only a few available V6s in the compact SUV class, zips along at 276 horsepower.
EPA ratings for the base engine come in at 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. These figures are average for the class. However, those requiring seating for seven will be hard pressed to find a more efficient alternative. The V6 engine offers 19 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway.
New 2011 Kia Sorento Safety
The new 2011 Sorento comes standard with a long list of safety features, including six airbags, antilock disc brakes for all four wheels, traction control, stability control, brake assist, electronic brake distribution, hill assist and downhill brake control. While the vehicle's design results in a slight reduction in window visibility, early indications suggest that the Sorento offers a solid level of safety. Crash tests have yet to be performed on the 2011 model.
New 2011 Kia Sorento Pricing
The new 2011 Kia Sorento comes with a starting price of $19,995. This figure is competitive for its class, and even undercuts top competitors like the Honda CR-V. Add in the good mileage, seating for seven and 10-year extended warranty, and the Sorento delivers big on value. For a boost in mileage, check out the Toyota RAV4 or Chevrolet Equinox. For a little more luxury, look into the Volkswagen Tiguan.