Segment:
Mid-size Crossover SUV (3-row seating option)
Key Competitors:
Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Ford Explorer, Nissan Pathfinder, Chevrolet Traverse
Design Philosophy:
The 2011 Sorento represented a significant shift for KIA, moving to a unibody construction and offering a more European-influenced design and driving dynamics.
Trim Levels Offered:
Typically included LX, EX, and SX trims, with varying feature sets and engine options.
Powertrain:
Engine, Transmission, Fuel System, Exhaust System
Chassis:
Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Wheels & Tires
Electrical:
Battery, Charging System, Starting System, Lighting, Instrumentation, Audio System, HVAC Controls, Power Accessories
Body & Interior:
Doors, Locks, Windows, Seats, Restraints, Climate Control, Body Panels, Interior Trim
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements, belt inspections, brake pad replacement, tire rotation
Repair:
Engine component repair, transmission service, brake system repair, suspension and steering component replacement, electrical system troubleshooting and repair, body panel repair
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, common issue identification, symptom-based troubleshooting guides
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers routine maintenance, diagnostics, repair procedures, and component specifications.
Standard Transmission:
6-speed automatic transmission
Optional Transmission:
N/A (6-speed auto was standard across trims/engines for this model year)
Drivetrain Options:
Front-Wheel Drive (FWD), All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Refer to manual for specific fluid type (e.g., SPIII or equivalent for early models, potentially newer SP-IV)
Length:
188.8 in (4,795 mm)
Width:
74.2 in (1,885 mm)
Height:
67.7 in (1,720 mm)
Wheelbase:
108.3 in (2,750 mm)
Curb Weight Min:
Approx. 3,850 lbs (1,746 kg) for 2.4L FWD
Curb Weight Max:
Approx. 4,300 lbs (1,950 kg) for 3.5L AWD SX
Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:
Approx. 10.0 cu ft (283 L)
Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:
Approx. 30.4 cu ft (861 L)
Cargo Volume Behind 1St Row:
Approx. 77.1 cu ft (2,183 L)
NHTSA Overall Rating:
Typically received 4 out of 5 stars overall from NHTSA for this generation.
IIHS Rating:
Often rated 'Good' in front and side impact tests by IIHS.
Stability Control:
Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with Traction Control System (TCS) - Standard
Braking Assist:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist System (BAS)
Tire Pressure Monitoring:
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
Airbags:
Front dual-stage airbags, front side-impact airbags, full-length side curtain airbags.
Seat Belts:
Three-point seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters for all seating positions, LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system.
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM/CD/MP3 player with auxiliary input. Optional upgrades included Infinity audio systems, SiriusXM satellite radio, and Bluetooth connectivity.
Navigation:
Optional touch-screen navigation system available on higher trims.
Camera System:
Optional rearview camera integrated with the navigation or audio display.
Bluetooth:
Available Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming on select trims.
Climate Control:
Manual or dual-zone automatic climate control.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions (refer to manual for specific recommendations).
Air Filter Replacement:
Approximately every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Iridium spark plugs typically recommended around 100,000 miles (160,000 km).
Engine Oil Type:
Refer to manual for specific viscosity grade (e.g., 5W-20 or 5W-30 for gasoline engines, depending on temperature).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze (e.g., HOAT - Hybrid Organic Acid Technology, typically red or orange).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Common Problems:
Potential for premature wear on certain suspension components (bushings, ball joints), occasional reports of oil consumption in early V6 engines, possible HVAC system issues.
Oil Filter Example:
Example: 26300-35503 (KIA/Hyundai OEM for 2.4L Theta II)
Air Filter Example:
Example: 28113-3S100 (KIA/Hyundai OEM for 2.4L Theta II)
Kia History:
KIA, founded in 1944, has evolved from a manufacturer of bicycles and steel tubing to a global automotive powerhouse known for its value, improving quality, and distinctive design.
Sorento Generation 2:
The 2011 model marks the beginning of the second generation (XM), a significant redesign from the body-on-frame first generation. It adopted a unibody platform, shared with Hyundai's Santa Fe, offering improved ride comfort and handling.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily produced in South Korea (Hwasung).
Production Years:
Second Generation: 2009-2015 (model years).
