Enjoying strong sales, especially in the face of the ongoing Toyota crisis, the 2011 Kia Sorento features retail pricing between $19,995 and $29,095. Kia's addition to the fiery-hot crossover utility vehicle (CUV) segment, the Sorento has been completely redesigned. Unibody construction and the most modern styling standards have created a streamlined CUV that arrives loaded with standard features for safety, comfort, practicality and performance.

With sleek curves and a ready stance, the 2011 Sorento from Kia delivers surprising power. It is fitted with a 2.4L 175-horse 4-cylinder engine that busts out 169 lb-ft of torque at 3750 RPM. For those that like more strength and speed, a 3.5L 276hp V6 is offered as well. The Sorento can be purchased as a front wheel driven or 4-wheel driven vehicle. On Base FWD models, a 6-speed manual transmission is used. The other 6 trims utilize a 6-speed automatic gearbox. The EPA estimates that the new Sorento will deliver 21/28 mpg city/highway.

Competitors of the Sorento Kia 2011 including the Dodge Journey, Ford Edge and Mazda CX7 break into sweats when they read the impressive list of its standard safety features including:

• All-speed electronic traction control;
• Electronic stability control;
• Overhead curtain airbags;
• Active Anti-whiplash frontal head restraints;
• Remote ignition disable;
• 4-wheel anti lock brakes;
• And loads more...

The 2011 Sorento also features bucketloads of comfort and technology features including:

• Dual-zone automatic climate control;
• Satellite radio;
• 18 inch alloy wheels;
• Heated front seats;
• Audio controls on the steering wheel;
• Available rearview camera and NAV system;

The Kia Sorento is just big and heavy enough to keep you and your family safe and sound. 3605 pounds of curb weight are supported on a 106.3 inch wheelbase that clears the ground by 7.2 inches. Exterior measurements are 183.9 x 74.2 x 67.3 inches in length, width and height. There are 5and 7-seat seating configurations available as well. On all five-passenger trims, front and rear measurements for head, shoulder and hip room are the same: 39, 59 and 56 inches respectively. 41.3 inches of legroom is available for front passengers while 37.6 inches comfortably accommodates the rear occupants. The standard 37.0 cubic feet of luggage capacity can be expanded up to 72.5 cubic feet by folding down the rear seating.

The 2011 Kia Sorento is capable of towing up to 1650 pounds when equipped with the stock 175-horse engine. With the 276-horsepower version, the maximum towing capacity increases to 3500 pounds. All trim levels require 17.9 feet of turning radius. Definitely worth further consideration, the redesigned Kia Sorento is making big waves. Kia says, "How Ya Like Me Now?"

2011 Kia Sorento Reviews