Officially Official: Kia drops pics of the U.S. spec 2011 Sorento
2011 Kia Sorento - click above for high-res image gallery
Kia America has just dropped the first official pics and details of the next generation Sorento. We first saw images of the Korean market model several months back, and unsurprisingly, the version we get looks to be pretty much unchanged. The Sorento is making the transition from midsize body-on-frame SUV to unibody crossover as it also comes to America for production. The handsome CUV will be the first product coming from Kia's new West Point, GA factory, with the line cranking up in November.
The new Sorento picks up about 4 inches in length and 3 inches in girth compared to the outgoing model. That, along with the new structure has allowed Kia to add a third row seat, although in a vehicle that is still only 184.4 inches long, those extra two seats will probably only be usable by small children.
For the first time, the Sorento will offer a four-cylinder engine in the lineup, a 172 horsepower, 2.4-liter unit in addition to the 273 hp 3.5-liter V6. We're guessing that the public will get its first look at the Sorento at either the Los Angeles or Detroit Auto Show in December, be we expect to get our mitts on it for a review before that. Either way, Kia tells us the Sorento will go on sale in January. Thanks to Keldon for the tip!
Gallery: 2011 Kia Sorento
[Source: Kia]
press release
ALL-NEW 2011 KIA SORENTO ENTERS CUV SEGMENT
All-New CUV Embodies Kia Motors' Style, Value and Commitment
# Newest Kia vehicle offers premium style, technology and safety features
# The first vehicle built1 at KMMG, the 2011 Sorento is a symbol of Kia Motors' commitment to the U.S.
ATLANTA, September 23, 2009 – Kia Motors continues its full-fledged design and vehicle lineup transformation and today Kia Motors America (KMA) introduces the all-new 2011 Sorento CUV. The first vehicle to roll off the line at Kia Motors' state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in West Point, Georgia, the new Sorento adopts Kia signature design cues and offers the U.S. market a well-equipped, well-appointed and versatile CUV suited perfectly for the time and a fun, dynamic generation of drivers.
"Kia Motors is known for producing safe, affordable, appealing vehicles and we are furthering our commitment to U.S. market consumers with the 2011 Sorento as the first vehicle to come off the state-of-the-art assembly line at our new manufacturing plant in Georgia," said Byung Mo Ahn, group president and CEO of KMA and Kia Motors Manufacturing Georgia (KMMG). "Creating stylish and safe vehicles loaded with value is a core philosophy for the Kia brand, and the opening of KMMG along with the production of the all-new Sorento further reinforces those values."
With a streamlined and attractive look, the new Sorento represents a modern CUV that is just the right size for today's consumer. Built using a unibody design with the ability to comfortably fit up to seven passengers, Sorento has an overall length of 184.4 inches and overall width of 74.2 inches, and is longer and roomier than the previous-generation Sorento. With increased head and legroom and nearly five cubic feet more in cargo capacity, the 2011 Sorento effortlessly accommodates both passenger and cargo needs for all drivers. An available panoramic sunroof, the first on any Kia vehicle, increases the feeling of spaciousness and adds to the overall contemporary appearance.
In addition to offering a comfortable ride, a host of impressive technology features also come standard, including an AM/FM/CD/MP3/Sat audio system with SIRIUS Satellite Radio capabilities with three months complimentary service2, auxiliary and USB audio input jacks for connecting personal MP3 players, and Bluetooth® connectivity with steering wheel-mounted voice activation controls to enable hands-free operation for all compatible cell phones. Available push button-start ignition, voice-activated navigation, rear sonar back-up cameras and air ionization purification technology complete the modern and high-tech driving experience.
To further match the needs and preferences for all drivers, the 2011 Sorento offers two engines, both more powerful than the Ford Escape and Honda CR-V3. A 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine outputting 172 horsepower or a larger 3.5-liter V6 providing a class-leading 273 horsepower are both coupled to a new six-speed automatic transmission, which together provide ample power and offers improved fuel efficiency and smooth performance. To further meet consumer needs, both engines can be mated to either front- or all-wheel-drive configurations.
"With a spacious, comfortable interior and multiple convenience features, the 2011 Sorento is the perfect, versatile choice for couples or young families taking a weekend getaway or merely handling everyday responsibilities," said Tom Loveless, vice president of sales for KMA. "Consumers are sure to take notice of Sorento's sharp styling, exceptional value and standard safety features, making it a standout in the competitive CUV segment."
Industry-Leading Warranty
The 2011 Sorento is covered by Kia's comprehensive warranty program, which offers unprecedented consumer protection. Included in this program are a 10-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty, a five-year/60,000-mile limited basic warranty and a five-year/100,000-mile anti-perforation warranty. A five-year/60,000-mile roadside assistance plan also is part of the comprehensive vehicle coverage.
Kia Motors Product Line
Kia Motors America offers a dynamic and diverse product line to meet the needs of all lifestyles. The vehicle line features the stylish and all-new Forte compact sedan and all-new two-door Forte Koup, the highly personalizable Soul, functional Rondo CUV, award-winning Sedona minivan, purposeful Optima midsize sedan and versatile yet fuel-efficient Rio and Rio5 subcompacts. The vehicle line also features the affordably luxurious Borrego and value-packed Sportage SUVs, while the rugged 2011 Sorento CUV hits showrooms in January 2010.
About Kia Motors America
Kia Motors America (KMA) is the marketing and distribution arm of Kia Motors Corporation based in Seoul, South Korea. KMA offers a complete line of vehicles through more than 640 dealers throughout the United States. For 2008, KMA recorded its 14th consecutive year of increased U.S. market share. Kia Motors subscribes to a philosophy of building high value, high quality, safe and dynamic vehicles. Kia Motors prides itself on producing vehicles that are exciting and enabling and evoke the Kia tagline "The Power to Surprise."
Kia Motors America is the "Official Automotive Partner of the NBA." Information about Kia Motors America and its full vehicle line-up is available at its Web site – www.kia.com. For media information, including photography, visit www.kiamedia.com.
1 KMMG vehicles are built with U.S. and globally sourced parts.
2 Customers must renew SIRIUS subscription after trial period if they wish to retain service. SIRIUS three-month complimentary subscription not available in Canada, AK, or HI. For full terms and conditions, visit sirius.com. SIRIUS, XM and all related marks and logos are trademarks of SIRIUS XM Radio Inc. and its subsidiaries.
3 Based on available 2009MY information.
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 2)
Luis 9:38AM (9/24/2009)
and here we have, yet another, bland, anonymous, 'thing'.
Reply
Rick 9:45AM (9/24/2009)
Maybe, but this 'thing' will outperform and outspec most of it's class and most likely cost less.
Vlad 1:39PM (9/24/2009)
I don't care for this kind of cars, so I can't tell from the top of my head. Who did they copied this time?
bwzd7p2 1:50PM (9/24/2009)
If the fuel economy ratings on the Kia Media site hold, it'll about match the I4 RAV4, though have a bit less power. It'll beat the CR-V I4, the Pilot V6, the RAV4 V6, and both versions of the Highlander. More reason for Honda and Toyota to worry, because I'd imagine the Santa Fe will produce the same numbers.
BigWill 2:44PM (9/24/2009)
Re the MPG numbers, they should be accurate since when Kia announced the Forte the pre-release numbers matched the official EPA numbers.
The other SUV I thought about was the Equinox/Terrain because GM keeps pushing its MPG numbers. It's true that the Equinox 4 FWD is rated at 22/32 which beats the Sorrento 4's 21/29 MPG, but the Equinox 3.0 DI V6 that puts out ~10 hp less than the Sorrento 3.5 V6 is EPA rated at 17/25 which is significantly lower than the Sorrento's 20/28.
PiCASSO 6:29PM (9/24/2009)
Weird. I thought I saw this "new" Sorento the other day here in Chicago... assumed it was 2010 model, yet this blog is on the 2011 model.
http://www.netcarshow.com/kia/2010-sorento/
AMcA 9:39PM (9/24/2009)
It's not bland and anonymous! No, it's a fake Acura! Almost like the real thing!
jsjs 11:31PM (9/27/2009)
Can't be a fake Acura since it doesn't have that ugly ass grille.
Jvijil 9:45AM (9/24/2009)
quite the looker in my opinion :D
Reply
Redline 11:26AM (9/24/2009)
I like the new Kia designs. Can't believe I just complimented a Korean car, what's the world coming to? :P
Rar 3:38PM (9/24/2009)
They hired former chief Audi designer.
http://www.carbodydesign.com/archive/2006/07/26-peter-schreyer-kia-design/
happyfun86 9:46AM (9/24/2009)
I think it looks pretty good, except for the back. It just doesn't look integrated with the rest of the body at all (especially around the taillights).
Reply
Kowell 9:56AM (9/24/2009)
I liked my 2004 Sorento, it was a capable offroader for a very decent price. I don't like to see the Sorento become a car based SUV but I guess it's where the money is.
I wonder if a new 3.5L Lambda V6 engine was really necessary for Hyundai/Kia. The 3.8L Lambda V6 is already a good and capable engine. Unless they stop using the 3.3L and replace it everywhere with the 3.5L
Reply
bwzd7p2 10:07AM (9/24/2009)
Yes, I'd expect the 3.3 to be totally dropped as it's not competitive displacement-wise with what everyone else offers. The 3.5L was originally said to be a QOHC design, but apparently won't be. Nevertheless, I'd expect the 3.8L to survive only in the Genesis line-up and everything else to offer only the 3.5L.
drakkor 10:10AM (9/24/2009)
aye, i've got a 2003 that has not given an ounce of trouble in 6 years
it is a shame to see it move to a car platform, but i suspect it'll still be a winner
Bob-omb 10:16AM (9/24/2009)
I really hope Hyundai and Kia don't replace all the 3.3Ls with 3.5Ls. I mean, I know most cars have 3.5-3.7L in their midsized offerings, but in softer-sprung cars like the Sonata, wouldn't a direct-injected 3.3L making 250hp be PLENTY? Every SUV or midsized car either has 170hp or 280hp. I'm sick of there being no middle ground.
Kowell 11:37AM (9/24/2009)
bwzd7p2--> The Borrego and Azera will probably keep the 3.8L. The Sedona could do well with with either the 3.5L or 3.8L.
Hyundai's first direct injection engine arrives soon (2.4L from the new Sonata). Lets wait and see how far they take the concept.
bwzd7p2 12:13PM (9/24/2009)
Yes, the Borrego probably will. The Azera, I'm doubting. The new Kia VG short-term replacement for the Amanti will have the 3.5 and it will be based on the same platform as the next Azera. The rumored RWD Kia based on the Genesis sedan might be one more that will have the 3.8. But with HKAG's current focus on fuel economy, I'm thinking most applications of the 3.8 will be trading it for the 3.5.
Bob-omb, the 3.3 already makes 249HP in the Sonata and 259HP in the KDM Genesis, so I'd think a GDI version would make even more. Perhaps in the long term a GDI 3.3 might be something we'll see a bit of.
BigWill 2:57PM (9/24/2009)
IMHO the Hyundai/Kia 3.3 is probably dead in the US market at least for a few reasons:
1) Just look at the MPG numbers - the 2010 Sonata with the 3.3 and a 5-speed auto is EPA-rated at 19/29. The Sorrento 3.5 V6 FWD - a heavier vehicle with ~25 more hp - is rated at 21/29 with a 6-speed auto. Even adjusting for the transmission, the 3.3 as-is isn't going to be significantly more efficient. If Hyundai does make the 3.3 more efficient, it'll be almost identical to the 3.5 so why offer both? Especially because ...
2) Market-wise, mainstream V6s over 3.0 litres are competing in the 260-300 hp range, with the Toyota 3.5 arguably the standard of the group. That means for marketing bulletpoint reasons Hyundai needs say they have a 3.5 V6 for no other reason than to match Toyota.
BTW, based on the fact that the 2.4 in the Sorrento is down a few hp from the Sonata, we can probably expect the 3.5 will put out ~280 hp in the 2011 Sonata. That also means a refresh on the 3.8 Lambda in the Genesis sedan should be done soon to boost that car to over 300 hp.
jsjs 11:22PM (9/24/2009)
There was no need for Kia to have two BOF SUVs (tho, the Borrego is a bit larger).