Cars Guide

The design of the new Kia Sorento has been no secret since June. But the technical adjustments tribute Kia still in silence. Until today. And then immediately apparent that the Sorento is addressed more thoroughly than just a visual facelift.

If a car is as successful as the Sorento you would hardly expect so much work that Kia makes a facelift. Since its introduction in 2009, three years ago, Kia sold worldwide from less than 620,000. South Korea, the United States and China are key markets and more striking is it also true that Kia car a more European perspective has given. Fine, if you ask us for the new front, new rear and the wheels and new exterior colors make the Sorento mouths definitely better than its American design somewhat original.

Also new on the inside ...
But that the exterior is renewed, we knew al KIA what we did not want to say is what it looks inside and subcutaneous gone on ahead. The interior is also quite the kick went. Kia promises more soft and high quality materials, but we also see a completely new center console and center console. In addition, the instruments are renewed and the optional 7 inch screen in the center console with the latest technology. If the equipment arrives at the model now also offers Kia and with heated front seats, heated rear seats, air conditioning for the third row and a new huge panoramic glass roof.

Platform
The biggest news is invisible. The Sorento is common to a new platform. And thats a huge step for a facelift. Unusual even! But it is of great importance. The car is much stiffer and thanks to new anchorages for the suspension and new dampers and springs, the car is actually a lot better ride. Part of this is also the improved control and the ability to optionally choose to Kias Flex Tar system. With Normal, Sport and Comfort features one-touch control that best suits you.

Engines cleaner and more economical
the engine range of the Kia Sorento is indeed the same, but all engines have been renewed. Cheaper and cleaner, of course was the highest on the priority list. In the Netherlands we will probably again be given the choice of one petrol and one diesel. In this case we count on the 2.2 liter turbo diesel with 197 hp and 436 Nm. Those in powers is as strong, but in terms of torque 6 Nm was won. Most important is the CO2 emissions of 171 to 153 g / km and thus decreased significantly will affect the retail price. The 2.4 liter petrol engine is now 192 hp and 242 Nm strong and therefore more powerful 18 hp and 12 Nm. The CO2 emissions decreased again with only 4 g / km. The forces of which are motors are still being transferred to freely set the front wheels or all four wheels. If you opt for all-wheel drive will get Kias electronically controlled system in the event that the needs for the propulsion forces are divided. A 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic is available in both cases.

Autumn
the new Kia Sorento will enjoy its world debut at the Paris Motor Show at dealers shortly afterwards to be wheeled. The prices are not yet known but, given the reduction of CO2 emissions from the diesel Sorento model, we expect that a lower entry price than € 42.995, - which currently counts Kia.

2011 Kia Optima Hybrid

The 2011 Kia Optima Hybrid the brand’s first hybrid borrows the drive train found on the 2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid: a 2.4-liter engine combined with six-speed automatic transmission, a 30kW electric motor and lightweight lithium polymer batteries to provide total 206 horsepower and 36 mpg in the city and 40 on the highway.

Kia unveiled the 2011 Optima Hybrid at the 2010 Los Angeles Auto Show. The hybrid version of the Optima features unique exterior aerodynamic refinements—the rear fascia exhaust is hidden—a lower ride height, an active air flap system, lower drag wheels, underbody aero tuning to reduce drag, and low rolling resistance tires. The Optima Hybrids drag coefficient is an exceptionally low at 0.26, although not quite as slippery as the Sonata. (Hyundai did not mention this feature at its press event for the Sonata Hybrid.) Based on a sharp design, appealing amenities, convincing hybrid powertrain, and a competitive price, hybrid shoppers looking for a fuel-efficient mid-size sedan should put the "Kia Optima Hybrid" in the running with the Hyundai Sonata, Ford Fusion Hybrid, Toyota Camry Hybrid, and the upcoming redesigned Nissan Altima Hybrid.

The 2011 Kia Optima Hybrid is an all-new model. Kia has entered the green game for the first time with the all-new Optima Hybrid. The 2011 Optima Hybrid is expected to go on sale in the fall of 2010.

KIAs first-ever hybrid, the 2011 Optima Hybrid delivers class-leading mileage and luxury amenities. The new hybrid Optima presents the latest gas-electric technology, right down to its Virtual Engine Sound System, which plays a pre-recorded engine sound in electric mode to make sure pedestrians and drivers hear it coming.

The 2011 Optima Hybrid also delivers the latest safety technology, including six airbags, electronic stability control, a traction control system; a brake assist system and hill start assist. Kia is hoping that its Optima Hybrid will build on the success of the gas-powered Optima, which saw its year-over-year sales more than double in April.