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2011 Kia Sorento
2011 Kia Sorento Overview
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2011 Kia Sorento Review
(3 Stars) Good conversion from SUV to crossover
Reviewed by Internet Auto Guide
Kia's Sorento took a year off, in anticipation of an all-new 2011 model, which went on sale in early 2010. The previous Sorento was a body-on-frame sport/utility with decent styling; the second generation shares its unibody structure with the Hyundai Santa Fe. The new Sorento's design is much sleeker and cleaner. Even though it rides on a wheelbase that's 0.3 inch shorter, overall length has grown 3.7 inches. That increase in length translates into more interior volume, which not only improves passenger space, but also makes room for an optional (but small) third row.
The new model weighs less than the previous model, which makes it possible to offer a four-cylinder engine. The base engine is now a 2.4L, 175-horsepower inline-four and the optional engine is a 276-horsepower, 3.5L V-6; both use a six-speed automatic. The I-4 has less horsepower than the outgoing 3.3, but the new 3.5L is more powerful than the previous 3.8L. All-wheel drive is optional, and trim levels are LX, EX, and SX. ... Expand full summary 
The Range
- Body styles: SUV
- Engines: 2.4L I-4, 3.5L V-6
- Transmissions: 6-speed automatic
- Models: LX, EX, SX
What's New
The 2011 Sorento is now a unibody, three-row crossover. It has been completely redesigned, and uses a four-cylinder or 3.5-liter V-6. Both engines are backed by a six-speed automatic. The new vehicle is longer, steering is quicker, and suspension is now fully independent. While there is enough space for seven people, the third row is snug and best suited for kids.
Exterior
The notched front end reflects the new nose of Kia. The crossover looks more sophisticated than before, and is larger, too. Seventeen-inch wheels are standard, and 18-inch alloys are optional, as are roof rails.
Interior
The base-model LX is somewhat Spartan compared with the rest of the line, but Sirius, Bluetooth, and tilt/telescoping wheel are standard. Seat heaters, a third row, navigation, and rearview camera are available.
Performance & Handling
In the four-cylinder EX, 0-to-60 mph took 9.6 seconds, but that number puts it near the back of the competitive pack. The engine sounds quicker than it actually is, but the transmission's shifts are smooth. When you consider the quiet and smooth-shifting optional V-6, performance gets better: its 7.6-second sprint to 60 is better than that of the Mazda CX-7 and Ford Edge.
Safety
Driver and passenger front airbags are standard, along with front seat-mounted side airbags and two-row side curtain airbags. Also standard: four-wheel ABS, stability control, hill-start assist control, and downhill brake control. There's a rollover sensor as well.
EPA Fuel Economy
- EX, LX, SX: 19-21mpg city/25-29mpg highway.
You'll Like
- Sophisticated looks
- Good mileage
- Seven-passenger seating
You Won't Like
- Tight third-row
- Small cargo area behind third row
- Slowish four-cylinder
Sum Up
Good conversion from SUV to crossover
Collapse full summary 
Build your own Sorento, select a trim below
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Engine
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MSRP
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Internet Price
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2.4L 175hp
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$21,195
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2.4L 175hp
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$22,795
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2.4L 175hp
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$25,195
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3.5L 276hp
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$32,395
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