The first-generation Kia Sorento was known for its rugged character, roomy interior and relatively thirsty engine. Launched earlier this year, its successor proves more efficient and more spacious while offering 4- and 6-cylinder engines and available all-wheel drive.
The Sorento and the competition
In Kia's portfolio, this midsize SUV slots between the compact Sportage (4-cylinder only) and the full-size Borrego (available with powerful V6 and V8 engines).
Outside the company, the Sorento must square off with a ton of big guns, including the Honda Pilot, Ford Explorer and Toyota Highlander. Making up in various upgrades for what it lacks in fame, this Korean model effectively wins over a surprising number of buyers.
Just look at the sales charts. According to Automotive News, the Sorento has sold twice as many units as the Pilot and Highlander through the first 10 months of 2010! Not bad at all for a ''little guy''...
Admittedly, Kia used aggressive marketing strategies to raise the Sorento out of the shadows. In particular, they emphasized the American origins of the new model. That's right: production now takes place at the West Point assembly plant in Georgia. As a result, the Sorento strikes a bigger chord in Canadian consumers.
Incidentally, the same factory started building the Hyundai Santa Fe in October. As you probably know, both vehicles share a common platform and several key components. No wonder they prove equally popular!
Engine choices
Selection is the operative word of the 2011 Kia Sorento. Five trim levels make up the model lineup: LX and EX are powered by a 2.4-litre, 4-cylinder engine, while LX-V6, EX-V6 and EX-V6 Luxury feature the same 3.5-litre V6 as the Sedona minivan.
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| The sleek new Kia Sorento is turning a lot of heads. (Photo: Luc Gagné/Auto123.com) |
The Sorento and the competition
In Kia's portfolio, this midsize SUV slots between the compact Sportage (4-cylinder only) and the full-size Borrego (available with powerful V6 and V8 engines).
Outside the company, the Sorento must square off with a ton of big guns, including the Honda Pilot, Ford Explorer and Toyota Highlander. Making up in various upgrades for what it lacks in fame, this Korean model effectively wins over a surprising number of buyers.
Just look at the sales charts. According to Automotive News, the Sorento has sold twice as many units as the Pilot and Highlander through the first 10 months of 2010! Not bad at all for a ''little guy''...
Admittedly, Kia used aggressive marketing strategies to raise the Sorento out of the shadows. In particular, they emphasized the American origins of the new model. That's right: production now takes place at the West Point assembly plant in Georgia. As a result, the Sorento strikes a bigger chord in Canadian consumers.
Incidentally, the same factory started building the Hyundai Santa Fe in October. As you probably know, both vehicles share a common platform and several key components. No wonder they prove equally popular!
Engine choices
Selection is the operative word of the 2011 Kia Sorento. Five trim levels make up the model lineup: LX and EX are powered by a 2.4-litre, 4-cylinder engine, while LX-V6, EX-V6 and EX-V6 Luxury feature the same 3.5-litre V6 as the Sedona minivan.
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| LX-V6 and EX models offer standard push-button start. (Photo: Luc Gagné/Auto123.com) |