Kia Unveils All-New SUV for 2003; Sorento Packs Power, Utility and Style Into a Sporty Value Package

CHICAGO, Feb. 7 -- The bar was raised in the compact SUV segment today as Kia unveiled its ninth new model for the U.S. market, the 2003 Kia Sorento. A larger, more powerful SUV than the popular Sportage, the Sorento is loaded with comfort and convenience features, provides capable off-road maneuvering and is backed by one of the industry's best warranties.

``The Sorento will set a new standard for value in the compact SUV segment,'' said Peter Butterfield, Kia's executive vice president and chief operating officer. ``It is built in the same high-value tradition as all Kia vehicles -- packed with desirable features and luxury content -- offered at a price that consumers are looking for.''

The five-passenger Sorento features a powerful 3.5-liter V6 engine that generates 192 horsepower and is coupled to an electronically controlled four-speed automatic transmission with overdrive. That combination will deliver smooth shifts and laudable fuel economy. The new model will be available in both two-wheel and four-wheel drive configurations. In the two-wheel-drive version, power is directed to the rear wheels, while the 4x4 offerings include two different drive systems, one part-time and one on demand.

The part-time four-wheel-drive system engages with the turn of a knob for convenient shift-on-the-fly driving. The transfer case is equipped with a low range to meet the needs of challenging off-road situations. The Sorento will be available with an automatic Torque-On-Demand(TM) four-wheel-drive system that also has a low range. The system automatically transfers power, as needed, from the rear wheels to the front wheels with no input required by the driver.

Additionally, the Sorento offers an Eaton carbon limited-slip differential that quietly transfers up to 50 percent of torque between the rear wheels.

As a rugged, authentic SUV, the Sorento features ladder-frame body construction with nine crossmembers and a double wishbone front suspension and multi-link rear suspension. A long wheelbase (106.7 inches) and wide track (62.2 inches) provide a comfortable ride and excellent stability in all driving situations, while the short front and rear body overhangs allow the Sorento to navigate steep, challenging terrain. Featuring large four-wheel disc brakes and standard 16-inch Michelin tires, the Sorento is a serious performer, on- and off-road.

To address the varied needs of its buyers, the Sorento will be available in two trim levels, LX and EX. The base LX is a full-featured vehicle offering only a handful of options. Standard comfort and convenience features include air conditioning, power windows/door locks/mirrors, cruise control, eight-speaker CD sound system and flip-and-fold rear seats. Standard safety features include dual airbags and front and rear side-curtain airbags.

The upscale EX model will offer alloy wheels, two-tone body cladding, power sunroof, eight-way power driver's seat, HomeLink® programmable remote system and an overhead console with multi-meter including outside temperature gauge, compass, altimeter and barometer.

For those who yearn for even more comfort and convenience, the Sorento will be available in an EX Luxury Package, which includes chrome exterior trim, a 280-watt in-dash six-disc CD player, steering wheel-mounted audio controls, automatic climate control, leather interior trim and Torque-On-Demand(TM) four-wheel drive. Because of its high-content level, the Sorento offers only a few free-standing options, including antilock brakes and leather interior.

Designed with great attention to detail, the Sorento incorporates the little extras that appeal to most SUV buyers that include plenty of storage space throughout the vehicle, an underbody-mounted full-size spare tire, a flat cargo floor, a handy split-opening rear hatch, underseat storage box, eight cupholders and more.

Inside, the Sorento will seat five passengers comfortably with generous head and leg room. It boasts an interior volume, including cargo space of 138.4 cubic feet, that's more than five cubic feet larger than the Jeep Liberty and the Ford Escape. The 60/40-split rear seats easily flip and fold for a smooth, flat cargo area.

In addition to hauling cargo, the Sorento will be able to tow up to 3,500 pounds, and will come pre-wired for trailer lights. A load-leveling system is available that will keep the vehicle level while towing or while carrying heavy loads.

Like all Kia models, the Sorento will be covered by Kia's comprehensive warranty program, which offers unprecedented consumer protection. Included in the package are a 10-year or 100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty, a five-year or 60,000-mile limited basic warranty and a five-year or 100,000-mile anti-perforation warranty. A five-year/unlimited mileage roadside assistance plan is also part of the comprehensive coverage program.

Kia Motors America is the U.S. sales, marketing and service arm of Kia Motors Corp. in Seoul, South Korea. High resolution photos of the Sorento are available at www.kiamedia.com .