For those who have seen the previous Kia Sorento and were left unimpressed – watch out for the 2011 release of this vehicle. The 2011 Kia Sorento release is so much better than the previous generations with practically everything changed except for the name it carries. The 2011 Sorento features an excellent combination of design, performance and reliability. The Kia Sorento is available in four trim levels. There’s the base, EX, LX and SX.
Specifications
| Vehicle Type: Compact SUV | Base Price: $23,150.00 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity: 18 gallons (68 liters) | MPG: 21 city / 29 hwy |
| Length: 183.9 in. (467 cm) | Width: 74.2 in. (188 cm) |
| Height: 67.3 in. (170 cm) | Wheel Base: 106.3 in. (270 cm) |
| Curb Weight: 3845 lbs (1744 kg) | Ground Clearance: 7.5 in. (19 cm) |
| Luggage Capacity: 37 cu ft (3rd row down) | Maximum Seating: 7 people |
| Engine: 2.4L 16-Valve DOHC Inline-4 | Displacement: 2359 cc |
| Horsepower: 175 HP | Max RPM: 6000 RPM |
| Torque: 169 lb-ft @ 3750 rpm | Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic w/ OD |
| 0-60 mph: 10.0 seconds | Max Towing Capacity: 1650 lbs (748 kgs) |
| Option:Sorento EX FWD | MSRP: $25,950; MPG: 22 city / 32 hwy |
| Option:Sorento LX V6 FWD | MSRP: $24,950; MPG: 20 city / 26 hwy |
| Option:Sorento EX V6 FWD | MSRP: $27,950; MPG: 20 city / 26 hwy |
| Option:Sorento SX V6 FWD | MSRP: $33,150; MPG: 20 city / 26 hwy |
Exterior & Interior
First of all, the Sorento is very different from earlier generations in terms of design. At first glance, some people may even mistake it for an SUV thanks to the flawless shapes and curves of the vehicle. The new design doesn’t carry any of the old styles from other Kia vehicles, putting the Sorento in a class of its own. This model from Kia comes in several colors from gray to white, allowing buyers to choose the color they like the most.
The Interior of the Sorento is also impressive with its 7-seating capacity, an improvement compared to last year’s 5-seater. It actually comes with some standard features like the Bluetooth as well as a functional navigation unit and an iPod interface. The seats are made with quality materials, providing comfortable seating for users. The design and materials used for the Sorento are actually chosen more for the comfort of the users rather than economy. However, this doesn’t lessen the unit’s attractiveness from the inside. The Sorento also comes with a cargo room totaling to 72.5 cubic feet. Compared to other midsize cars, the Sorento is only rivaled by the Toyota RAV4 at 73 cubic feet.
As mentioned, the 2011 Kia Sorento comes with four trims. The EX with four cylinders and LX trims come with an optional third row split-folding seat while this feature is a standard in the SX and EX V6.
Performance
The Sorento is equipped with a 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder engine, boasting about 175 horsepower. On the other hand, the EX trim has around 276 horsepower thanks to its 3.5 liter V6. According to Kia, the AWD based model would be around 21/27 mpg while the FWD would range around 21/29 mpg. On the other hand, the FWD V6, it would be around 20/26 and 19/25 for the AWD
Safety & Reliability
The Sorento’s offering on safety is probably one of the best in the market today with some reviewers offering it a perfect 10. The insurance industry actually provides an excellent feedback on the Sorento’s ability to keep its passengers safe while the federal government also provides its stamp of approval.
Pros & Cons
The Sorento clearly has a lot going for it. However, it isn’t perfect yet. The innovative design and excellent cargo capacity is definitely a plus on its side, not to mention the horsepower. The fact that that there are two engine options gives people the chance to choose whether they want the 100+ horsepower or the 200+ engine made for cruising along roads. Braking performance is also excellent with the warranty definitely being better than most similarly priced models today.
However, those who are thinking about installing the third-row seat might want to think twice as it isn’t comfortable for adults. Interior materials are a bit coarse to the touch but otherwise look good.
The Competition
All in all, the 2011 Kia Sorento falls ahead most of its competitors in the crossover department. Among other makes that compete with the Sorento are the Chevrolet Equinox (MSRP $24,970; 22 city / 32 hwy), Ford Edge (MSRP $27,640; 19 city / 27 hwy), and the Toyota RAV4 (MSRP $22,475; 22 city / 28 hwy). This midsize vehicle boasts of an excellent rating in terms of performance, reliability, safety, design and interior. The different options provided for buyers also put an added edge to this Kia masterpiece.
Overall Rating
80 out of 100
What others say:
“The 2011 Kia Sorento takes a right turn in its transition from off-roader to all-weather wagon: It’s sized right, timed right, and packaged right.”Car Connection
“The steering provides reasonable feedback, and body lean is well controlled in fast turns. Sorento’s exterior dimensions are tidy for the class, providing good maneuverability in close quarters.”Consumer Guide
“With the Sorento, Kia comes up with a winner for the hot crossover market.”MSN Auto
“Plentiful standard features; decent-sized third-row seat; sporty handling; punchy optional V6; long warranty.”Edmunds
“A comprehensive ground-up remake moves this bigger, better and decidedly more capable 2011 Kia Sorento into the most desirable part of an increasingly popular market segment.”KBB
