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2011 Sorrento: A real head turner
KIA--Pic-1a
Kia’s newest mascots pose next to the 2011 Kia Sorrento – the model that has been generating more buzz than any other vehicle on the lot. - photo by JASON CAMPBELL
At first Kia was a company known for its world-class warranty and its fleet of affordable and reliable vehicles.

And now with the construction of a $1 billion manufacturing plant in West Point, Georgia, Kia is rolling completely American-made models off the line like the 2011 Sorrento – one of the hottest models that they’ve ever launched, as it appeals to a wide range of buyers.

According to Sales Manager Dan Espino, everything from the redesigned body style to the technology included in top-of-the-line models are drawing in buyers who would normally be in the market for much more expensive luxury vehicles.

“I had a guy come in the other day that was looking to buy a Land Rover, and when he saw the Sorrento he said that he just had to have it,” Espino said. “And after that there was a lady that said she was strictly a Honda driver until she got behind the wheel of the Sorrento, and just fell in love with it.

“With the new style, the standard safety features, and the technology, it’s one of the most popular cars that we have on the lot.”

All it takes to see why the Sorrento is turning heads is to examine the available options that include a new four-cylinder motor that offers great gas mileage as well as the customizable options like the panoramic sunroof that opens up to offer a full view of the sky.

Armed with a six-speed automatic transmission that enables the Sorrento to get as much as 29 miles per gallon while on the freeway, the model widens its appeal to commuters hoping to save money while behind the wheel of the crossover. It is available in an all-wheel drive model that enables driving off-road or in the snow a snap.

The 3.5-lier V6 EX model generates a best-in-class 276 horsepower while being able to tow 3,500 pounds and deliver efficiency of 26 miles per gallon on the highway.

And available options on the EX model can make it the dream car that most people have been waiting years to drive.

A voice-activated navigation system with live traffic updates is available, as is an Infinity surround-sound audio system with 550 watts of power, and a rear-backup camera that shows what is behind the vehicle either in the rear-view mirror or on the navigation screen.

The combination of next-generation front and passenger airbags as well as side-curtain airbags that protect passengers in event of a side-collision or a rollover highlight the safety features which also include an electronic stability feature that allows for better traction.

“With the new redesign the 2011 Sorrento is better than ever,” Espino said. “All it takes is getting behind the wheel once to see why it has become so popular.”

Manteca’s Kia Country is currently offering zero-percent financing for up for 48-months on the 2011 Sorrento and rates as low as 2.9 percent for 60-months – incentives that when combined with the $1,000 instant cash for customer loyalty, military personnel, and drivers of competitive models made it an affordable buy.

Kia Country is located at 1515 N. Main Street, and can be reached at 239-6203. Additional information about available models can be found on the dealership’s website at www.kiacountry.com.