The 2011 Kia Sorento CUV

Crossovers are nothing terribly new to standard car consumers, and the same could be said for the name SUV. However a CUV (crossover utility vehicle) might be a new name for most of us. What would be a prime example of a CUV? Consumers should look in the direction of the 2011 Kia Sorento.

Available in base, LX and EX model variants, the Kia Sorento has a simple yet elegant exterior frame, with trim upgrades for the LX and EX variants. Special wheel moldings and sizes are available on the EX and LX versions, along with LED turning lights for both. The EX offers more, providing automatic headlights, a panoramic sunroof, rear spoiler, and fog lights and roof rails are available for both the LX and EX.

The interior is quite roomy, providing enough space for seven adults to sit comfortably, while offering a significant amount of storage space. Technology is integrated into the design as well, with features such as a voice controlled audio system that offers multiple audio and radio formats, including satellite radio, as well as a USB and audio jack for media players. Also included in the design are other techs such as a push-start ignition, a navigation system and electronically monitored trip log which are also voice controlled, ionized air conditioning, and sonar sensors for reverse and parking. In short, a lot of tech and a lot of room are packed seamlessly into the Sorento.

Coming in a 6-speed transmission, the two engines of the Kia Sorento, a 3.5L V6 and a 2.4L four cylinder, offer a combined 451 horsepower and 417 lb.-ft. of torque, a significant amount of power.

Safety is also an important aspect of the 2011 Kia Sorento; driver, passenger, side curtain, and seat mounted airbags are standard in all models, along with several electronic systems which prevent rollovers, braking downhill, hill starts, brake distribution, and active head restraints to help prevent neck injuries. In addition, the exterior Sorento on the front section is designed to reduce the amount of potential damage in the event of a pedestrian or a biker related accident, without compromising structural integrity in the event of a collision with another vehicle or structure.

So, if you find yourself wondering what a good exemplar for a CUV would look like, Kia’s 2011 Sorento CUV offers you that exemplar, while perhaps even raising the bar.