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Kia

Kia Motors has been a leader in the automotive market when it comes to value and warranty, but its vehicles have always looked the part of affordable, economical transportation. Starting with the 2010 Kia Soul, the South Korean automaker is finally starting to incorporate inspiring, attractive designs into its new vehicles which appears to be an ongoing trend. Kia followed up the Soul with the stylish Kia Forte sedan and Kia Forte Koup, and its new design language is now moving into the more lucrative midsize crossover segment with the 2011 Kia Sorento. While the Soul and Forte are both new names to Kia, it decided to keep the Sorento name due to the ruggedness of the previous model, but as a sign of the major overhaul, there will be no 2010 model Sorento (the current 2009 model is pictured far right).

Set to hit dealership showrooms in January 2010, the second-generation Kia Sorento will go up against popular crossovers ranging from the five-passenger Chevrolet Equinox, Nissan Murano and Ford Edge up to seven-passenger crossovers like the Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot and Dodge Journey. The all-new Kia Sorento will come in three trim levels (LX, EX and EX V-6), but Kia hasn’t announced official pricing yet. According to Kia’s vice president of marketing, Michael Sprague, the 2011 Sorento’s expected volume seller will be the five-passenger Sorento LX FWD, and while the starting MSRP has yet to be announced, he said that the base LX will start under $20,000 while a fully loaded EX V-6 will break into the $30,000 range. From the refreshingly attractive styling of the interior and exterior up the factory where it’s built, the only thing that this new crossover carries over from its predecessor is the Sorento nameplate.

2011 Kia Sorento Exterior

While the face of the first Sorento was seemingly inspired by the popular first-generation Lexus RX, the 2011 Kia Sorento uses Kia’s signature grille and headlight treatment that debuted on the Kia Soul and Kia Forte. Not to say that the exterior styling is any less “play-it-safe” than the previous Sorento, but the bold new face, the larger greenhouse and the bigger overall size help give it a more athletic stance to stand apart from the numerous cookie-cutter crossovers that are currently on the market. Like the first-generation Sorento, all 2011 Sorento models continue to use gray plastic cladding around the lower edges for a more rugged appearance, but the texturing, coloring and styling of the lower plastic adds a more upscale look. One of the design elements I liked the most on the 2011 Kia Sorento was the beveled edges around the greenhouse, taillights and rear liftgate window to help give the overall design more depth.

Despite its bigger size, the 2011 Kia Sorento has less ground clearance and worse approach and departure angles than its predecessor, which were most likely key changes needed to add the third-row bench seat. Ground clearance drops an inch to 7.2 inches allowing for easier ingress and egress, while the 25.1 degree approach angle and 23.1 departure angle mean that the Sorento’s off-roading abilities will be somewhat less than the outgoing model, but still relatively on par for this segment.

2011 Kia Sorento Interior

As much as the exterior gives the Sorento a look that is more upscale, it is the style, quality and materials used inside the cabin that will help make it a major player in the crossover market. With a stylish layout and surprising standard equipment, the new Kia Sorento delivers an elegant and comfortable atmosphere that is refreshing for a vehicle with a sub-$20,000 starting MSRP. Three different interior trims will be available from the mesh-like cloth in the Sorento LX to the two-tone leatherette in the EX, but my favorite was the optional perforated leather seats available on the EX. The model I drove had the optional leather seats in a dark gray hue with subtle accents from the dark wood grain on the instrument panel and door panels. Attention to detail was apparent inside the new Sorento as every surface intersected with surprising fit and finish. High-end options such as GPS navigation and a panoramic sunroof are also available on the new Sorento.

New for 2011, the Kia Sorento joins the growing list of seven-passenger crossovers with the three-row configuration standard on the EX V-6 and optional on the lesser trim levels. While the small third row will likely appeal to families with small kids that can fit in the confining rearmost seat, all Sorento owners will appreciate the impressive cargo capacities of this crossover. With all three rows in place, the Sorento can accommodate 9.1 cubic feet of cargo, but without the third row in place, cargo capacity improves to 37 cubic feet. Fold both rear rows down and the Sorento can swallow up to 72.5 cubic feet. If more space is needed, the Sorento has the optional availability of roof racks as well as a towing capacity that maxes out at 3,500 pounds.

2011 Kia Sorento Performance & Handling

Although two engines will still be available on the 2011 Sorento, the range between the two will now be broader including the addition of a four-cylinder which has been a glaring omission in previous Sorento model years. The Sorento LX and EX will come base with 2.4-liter inline-4 that produces 172 horsepower and 166 lb-ft of torque, while the Sorento EX V-6 uses a 3.5-liter V-6 that puts out 273 horsepower and 247 lb-ft of torque. Despite a gain of 11 horsepower compared to the current Sorento, the new engine will offer impressive EPA fuel economy estimates of up to 20 miles per gallon in the city and 28 mpg on the highway, while the inline-4 gets up to 21 miles per gallon in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.

While the first-generation Sorento was a true SUV with a body-on-frame design, the all-new Sorento aims for a more refined ride with a unibody layout and four-wheel independent suspension. On the first leg of the trip, I drove a base Sorento LX FWD, and on the return trip I drove a fully loaded EX V-6 AWD. When it comes to the new Sorento’s powertrain, the biggest complaint I had was the amount of noise coming from the V-6 when accelerating. Generally speaking, the four-cylinder engine is usually the loudest and roughest engine option in toady’s cars, but the Sorento surprisingly bucks that trend as this powerful, fuel-efficient engine just seems overworked at times. As for the Sorento’s handling, the switch to unibody results in a smoother, more confident driving dynamic. The whole day was spent driving through steady rain, and both models felt stable in navigating the slick roads. All 2011 Kia Sorento models come standard with electronic stability control and four-wheel disc brakes with ABS so they both handled quite well in slick conditions. Other standard safety features include hill start assist control, downhill brake control, electronic brake distribution, six airbags and active front head restraints.

2011 Kia Sorento Production

Not only will the 2011 Kia Sorento continue to offer impressive value and efficiency, but it is now built in a new factory in West Point, Ga. giving it the status of “Made in the U.S.A.” In addition to the assembly taking place in Georgia, the Kia-designed six-speed automatic are also produced in the state while the engines are produced nearby in Alabama. With the site announced in March 2006 and the first units rolling off the assembly line in November 2009, the factory is just 80 miles from Hyundai’s Montgomery, Ala. plant allowing the two sister companies to save money by sharing suppliers. The 2,200 acre site will have the ability to produce 300,000 units annually, and every unit will be tested on a two-mile test track which is also located on the site. Looking ahead to the future, Kia’s new facility has the capacity and flexibility to produce up to three separate models, and Kia is looking at two other models to join the 2011 Sorento’s production line.

Summary

Call it luck, good timing or plain old-fashioned skill, but Kia Motors has put itself in a position to be one of the most successful automakers in 2009 thanks to a great warranty, excellent value and stylish new vehicle designs. Redesigned for 2011 and assembled in a brand new plant here in the United States, the all-new Kia Sorento should appeal to just about any consumer who bases a new car purchase on reliability, versatility, styling, luxury or American-made. Not only will the 2011 Kia Sorento help Kia continue to build its market share in North America, but it will also help improve the automaker’s image in the eyes of consumers.

Select photos via Kia Motors
Lodging, travel and vehicles provided by Kia Motors.

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2010 Ford Edge
0.0% Interest or $3,000 Cash Back

The 2010 Ford Edge is a crossover SUV that offers mid-size accommodations on a platform that is surprisingly comfortable to drive, given its size. The Ford Edge also features exterior styling that helps it to stand out from the crowd, thanks to its beefy yet streamlined look. The crossover has room for five passengers, as well as 69 cubic feet of total cargo space with the rear seats out of the picture. The entry-level Ford Edge comes with a full complement of power equipment, as well as a CD player, air conditioning and cruise control. Moving up through the trim levels sees the addition of leather seats, a vehicle information center, reclining rear seats and dual climate controls. Options such as a rear backup sensor, heated seats, a panoramic glass roof and voice-controlled navigation can also be ordered.

The 2010 Ford Edge is provided with only one engine choice, but it offers solid fuel economy and excellent power for its class. The vehicle is powered by a 3.5-liter V-6 engine that generates 265 ponies and 250 lb-ft of torque, giving it the ability to tow up to 3,500 lbs. A six-speed automatic transmission sends power to the front wheels in the base trim, with all-wheel drive optional on all other editions of the vehicle. Fuel mileage is rated at 18 miles per gallon in the city and 25 miles per gallon on the highway for all versions of the Ford Edge.

There is a financing incentive of 0.0% interest or $3,000.00 cash back on the 2010 Ford Edge effective until 01/04/2010.

2009 Chevrolet Suburban
0.0% Interest or $4,000 Cash Back

For many car shoppers, the search for a capable full-size SUV begins and ends with the 2009 Chevrolet Suburban. This mammoth, truck-based sport-utility vehicle can handle almost any task that is thrown at it. It can swallow an astounding nine passengers in certain configurations, and it can also have the seats cleared out to make way for 137.4 cubic feet of cargo space, which is more than enough to house enough renovation supplies to rebuild a kitchen five times over. The vehicle also boasts an impressive tow rating, as it is cleared to haul just under 10,000 lbs. In terms of interior amenities, the Chevrolet Suburban can be loaded up with a surprising amount of luxury gear such as air suspension, leather seats, three zones of climate control and a rear entertainment system to keep distantly located backseat passengers entertained.

The 2009 Chevrolet Suburban offers buyers a range of V-8 engines under the hood. The lower tier motor is a 5.3-liter that generates 310 horsepower and 335 lb-ft of torque, while showing fuel economy of 14 miles per gallon around town and 20 miles per gallon on the highway. A much more powerful 6.0-liter unit can replace the smaller engine, and it offers 366 horsepower and 376 lb-ft of torque on tap. Despite the presence of active cylinder management, fuel economy with this engine does dip somewhat. Four-wheel drive is available on the Chevrolet Suburban, along with an off-road suspension package, and all trucks benefit from a six-speed automatic transmission.

There is a financing incentive of 0.0% interest or $4,000.00 cash back on the 2009 Chevrolet Suburban effective until 11/30/2009.

2009 Mazda RX-8
2.9% Interest or $5,000 Cash Back

The 2009 Mazda RX-8 is a pure sports car that also has a practical side, making it a reasonable choice as a daily driver for many performance enthusiasts. The Mazda RX-8’s sleek profile and aggressive stance leaves no doubt in the minds of observers that it is a vehicle which has been designed to carve through canyon corners with the greatest of ease. However, opening the driver or passenger doors reveals that the coupe has a definite useful streak hard coded into its DNA. A set of secondary, rear-hinged doors enable easy access to a surprisingly roomy back seat, giving the Mazda RX-8 a significant advantage over other vehicles in its class. All editions of the Mazda RX-8 are well appointed, with air conditioning, cruise control and leather trim standard. HID headlights, leather seats, automatic climate control and even Recaro sport seats can all be added to the vehicle.

The 2009 Mazda RX-8 leaves convention at the door and derives its motivation from a 1.3-liter rotary engine. While the displacement might seem smaller than what most other sports cars are accustomed to, rotary technology allows the Mazda RX-8 to develop between 212 and 232 horsepower, depending upon whether the six-speed automatic or six-speed manual transmission is installed. Torque is a bit under par, however, with only 152 lb-ft available. Still, with its lightweight design the coupe makes an excellent choice for those interested in an engaging driving experience. Fuel mileage for the Mazda RX-8 is 16 miles per gallon in stop and go driving and 22 miles per gallon during highway cruising.

There is a financing incentive of 2.9% interest or $5,000.00 cash back on the 2009 Mazda RX-8 effective until 11/30/2009.

2010 Cadillac CTS Sport Wagon
1.9% Interest or $2,000 Cash Back

The 2010 Cadillac CTS Sport Wagon is the family edition of one of GM’s most popular premium vehicles. The Cadillac CTS Sport Wagon takes the quality and styling associated with the Cadillac CTS sedan and grafts an additional covered cargo compartment onto the rear. However, the wagon represents more than just a quickie cosmetic job, with a unique taillight treatment and beautifully sloped rear roof deck giving the Cadillac CTS Sport Wagon a personality all of its own. The wagon makes available many of the same features and options found in the sedan, with leather seats, navigation, a rear seat entertainment system and even a large power sunroof all available.

The 2010 Cadillac CTS Sport Wagon is available with two different V-6 engines, each of which provides excellent acceleration and smooth, linear power delivery. Starting things off is a 270 horsepower, 3.0-liter motor that also provides 223 lb-ft of torque. Fuel economy for this engine is rated at 18 miles per gallon in the city and 26 miles per gallon on the highway. Stepping up to the 3.6-liter V-6 makes 304 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque available, with no fuel mileage penalty. A six-speed automatic transmission handles the gear shifting duties for each engine, and all-wheel drive is standard across the entire wagon line.

There is a financing incentive of 1.9% interest or $2,000.00 cash back on the 2010 Cadillac CTS Sport Wagon effective until 11/30/2009.

2009 Kia Amanti
$3,000 Cash Back

The 2009 Kia Amanti straddles the line between full-size luxury sedan and bargain-focused value leader. Kia’s main strategy with the Kia Amanti is to provide a boatload of premium features at a very attractive price in the hopes of luring buyers in the near luxury market into its showrooms. The Kia Amanti is fairly roomy for its class, and provides a host of standard goodies: cruise control, dual climate control, power seats, USB-enabled audio system, and heated mirrors. Additional items such as leather seats, 17-inch wheels, an Infinity stereo system and a sunroof can also be added on. The Kia Amanti is aimed at those who are looking for a comfortable car that won’t break the bank, and which isn’t quite as large as a Lincoln.

The 2009 Kia Amanti makes do with a 3.8-liter V-6 engine tuned to provide a healthy 264 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. This allows the sedan to feel reasonably confident out on the highway in terms of merging and passing, without providing sports car-like performance. Its five-speed automatic transmission helps to give it fuel economy numbers of 17 miles per gallon around town and 24 miles per gallon on the highway, which is fairly average for its size.

There is an incentive of $3,000.00 cash back on the 2009 Kia Amanti effective until 11/30/2009.