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2009 LA Auto Show: All-New 2011 Kia Sorento CUV


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2011 Kia Sorrento

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LOS ANGELES, December 2, 2009; Kia Motors America (KMA) today announced the official North American debut of the all-new Sorento crossover utility vehicle (CUV) during a press conference at the 2009 Los Angeles Auto Show.

The first vehicle to be built at the all-new, state-of-the-art manufacturing facility, Kia Motors Manufacturing Georgia (KMMG) in West Point, Georgia, Sorento will be coming to market in early 2010 as a 2011 model-year vehicle, presenting consumers with a well-equipped, well-appointed CUV with best-in-class power(1).

The new Sorento represents a modern CUV that is just the right size for today's consumer. Completely redesigned for 2011, the all-new Sorento now employs a unibody design with the ability to comfortably fit up to seven passengers, offering more space and ride comfort than the previous-generation model.

Available in base, LX and EX trim levels, all trims offer 17-inch alloy wheels with 235/65R17 tires and wheel moldings, while moving to the LX trim includes standard body-color heated outside mirrors with integrated LED turn signal indicators.

All EX trims offer standard 18-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlamps, fog lamps (optional on LX) and a rear spoiler. Optional for LX and EX trims are roof rails, while EX trims offers the option of a panoramic sunroof (V6 models only), a first for any Kia vehicle.

Sorento offers two engines, both more powerful than the Ford Escape and Honda CR-V2. A 3.5-liter V6 providing best-in-class 276 horsepower and 248 pound-feet of torque and a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine producing 175 horsepower and 169 pound-feet of torque both are coupled to a new six-speed automatic transmission, which together provide ample power and offer improved fuel efficiency.

This all-new six-speed automatic transmission is a proprietary design for Kia Motors that was designed, engineered and built specifically for Kia vehicles, making the brand one of only three manufacturers to employ such a transmission. With both five- and seven-passenger seating configurations,

Sorento is now more versatile than ever. With 142.5 cubic feet of interior volume when equipped with five seats or 149.4 cubic feet with seven, Sorento offers quite a bit more space over the previous generation's 137.5 cubic feet.

Technology features come standard throughout, including an AM/FM/CD/MP3/Sat audio system with SIRIUS� Satellite Radio capabilities and three months complimentary service(3), auxiliary and USB audio input jacks for connecting personal MP3 players, and Bluetooth� wireless technology connectivity with steering wheel-mounted voice activation controls.

All EX models offer standard push button-start ignition with smart key and rear sonar back-up sensors, while available voice-activated navigation, rear view back-up cameras and air ionization purification technology complete the modern and high-tech driving experience. Air conditioning, a tilt and telescopic steering wheel with integrated audio controls, trip computer and rear map pockets also are standard.

In addition to those features, the LX trims offers standard automatic up and down driver's window function, illuminated vanity mirror, EcoMinder(TM) Indicator to assist with fuel efficient driving habits, and a second row arm rest with cup holder.

Progressing to the EX trim provides even more standard features including dual automatic temperature control, rear air conditioning (V6 models only) and a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob.

All trims come outfitted with a plethora of standard safety equipment, including driver and passenger advanced front airbags, front seat-mounted side airbags, side curtain airbags and front active headrests, four-wheel Antilock Brake System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD). Hill Start Assist Control (HAC) and Downhill Brake Control (DBC) also come standard on all models.

Pedestrians also benefit from the all-new Sorento's standard safety systems. For the hood of Sorento is designed to crumple and flex strategically so as to absorb and disperse the shock of a collision with a pedestrian or bicyclist, aimed at decreasing the level of potential injury.

. 1. Best-in-class power with V6 engine only.
2. Based on available 2009MY information. 3. Customers must renew SIRIUS� subscription after trial period if they wish to retain service. The SIRIUS� three-month complimentary subscription not available in Canada, AK, or HI. For full terms and conditions, visit sirius.com. SIRIUS, XM and all related marks and logos are trademarks of SIRIUS XM Radio Inc. and its subsidiaries.