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The Kia Sorento arrived in U.S. showrooms in 2003. Riding on a truck-based body-on-frame platform, the first-generation model was a compact sport utility vehicle (SUV) with seating for 5 passengers. Under the hood was a 3.5-liter V-6 engine, rated at 192 horsepower, connected to a 4-speed automatic transmission. Kia offered the Sorento with rear- or 4-wheel drive, the latter with a rugged limited-slip rear differential and lower-range gearing. The Sorento was refreshed in 2007 when the Korean automaker made cosmetic and option changes to the 4-door SUV, and increased the engine size to a 3.8-liter V-6. Kia also introduced a less powerful, but more efficient, 3.3-liter V-6 powerplant.
Debuting at the 2009 Seoul Motor Show, the all-new 2011 Kia Sorento is a significant departure from the previous model. The new Sorento features a unibody platform shared with corporate siblings from Hyundai, the Santa Fe and Hyundai Veracruz midsize crossover SUVs. With a car-like ride, the Sorento offers seating for up to 7 passengers, a choice between front- or all-wheel-drive drivetrains, and either a 4-cylinder or V-6 engine.
The new 2011 Kia Sorento will be manufactured in a new factory located in West Point, Georgia and is slated to arrive in dealerships in January of 2010.
2011 Kia Sorento Preview
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