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2003 Kia Sorento
For the very first time in 2003, Kia introduces the Sorento, a midsize
SUV that seats five, and boasts a towing capability of 3500 lbs. Priced
to compete with the compact SUVs of other manufacturers, the 2003 Kia
Sorento offers greater power than these competitors, and proves to be
larger as well. Its body-on-frame design, and off-road oriented 4-wheel
drive system mean it provides greater off-road ability than these car-based
rivals.
Available Models
The 2003 Kia Sorento is available in the LX and the EX models. Both come
with either 2-wheel drive or 4-wheel drive systems, and both have 4-speed
automatic transmission.
Interior Features
Comfortable and roomy, this SUV offers a number of compartments, designed
to store all those smaller items needed for an off-road trip. The 2003
Kia Sorento also boasts exceptional cargo space, with its split rear seat
folding down to form a flat storage area for larger items.
Air conditioning, cruise control, heated power mirrors, power door locks
and windows, a tachometer, a tilt steering wheel, and map lights are all
standard in both the LX and the EX models. The EX has its steering wheel
leather-wrapped, while its driver seat features an 8-way power system.
This upscale model also comes equipped with remote keyless entry, a compass,
a barometer, and an altimeter. Leather upholstery and heated front seats
are options on the EX.
Exterior Features
The 2003 Kia Sorento rides on 16-inch wheels, and all feature a rear liftgate
with a window that opens separately. Rear privacy glass is standard in
both the LX and the EX, as are tow hooks in both front and rear, and a
trailer-wiring harness. The EX model also comes equipped with a power
sunroof, and a roofrack.
Performance
The Kia Sorento's engine is the same one used to power Kia's minivan,
the Sedona. This is a 3.5-litre dohc V6 engine that works at 192 hp at
5500 rpm, and provides 217 lbs-ft of torque at 3000 rpm. The transmission
in the Sorento is 4-speed automatic. Sorento's 4-wheel drive models come
with a limited-slip differential, a 2-speed transfer case, and low-range
gearing.
Safety and Security
On both 2003 Kia Sorento models, dual front airbags are standard, as are
curtain side airbags for both front and rear seats, and 4-wheel disc brakes.
Also standard on the EX are fog lights, while anti-lock brakes are optional
on both the LX and the EX models.
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2003 Kia Sorento Highlights
 The
new model is available in both two-wheel and four-wheel drive configurations.
In the two-wheel-drive version, power is directed to the rear wheels,
while the 4x4 offerings include a part-time or a Torque-on-Demand?
automatic full-time 4x4 drive system.
the
Sorento will be available in two trim levels, LX and EX. The LX
is a full-featured vehicle offering only a handful of options. Standard
comfort and convenience features include air conditioning, power
windows/door locks/heated mirrors, cruise control, eight-speaker
CD sound system, full overhead console with sunglass storage, map
lights and garage door opener pocket, four 12 volt power outlets,
8-way adjustable driver’s seat and 60/40 split flip-and-fold
rear seats. Standard safety features include dual front airbags
and front and rear side-curtain airbags, front pretensioners, front
force-limiters and five three-point seatbelts and headrests to accommodate
all occupants.
The
upscale EX model adds alloy wheels, two-tone body cladding, power
sunroof, fog lights, eight-way power driver’s seat, HomeLink?
programmable remote system, a Delphi premium AM/FM/CD/cassette audio
system with 10 speakers and steering wheel mounted audio controls,
remote keyless entry system, which operates the doors, rear flip
open glass and panic alarm and a multi-meter including outside temperature
gauge, compass, altimeter and barometer to the overhead console.
Like
all Kia models, the Sorento will be covered by Kia’s comprehensive
warranty program, which offers unprecedented consumer protection.
Included in the package are a 10-year or 100,000-mile limited powertrain
warranty, a five-year or 60,000-mile limited basic warranty and
a five-year or 100,000-mile anti-perforation warranty. A five-year/unlimited
mileage roadside assistance plan is also part of the comprehensive
coverage program.
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Competing 2003 Models to the Kia Sorento
 Chevy
Blazer
Ford
Escape
Honda
CR-V
Hyundai
Santa Fe
Jeep
Liberty
Land
Rover Freelander
Mazda
Tribute
Nissan
Xterra
Saturn
VUE
Subaru
Forester
Suzuki
Grand Vitara
Toyota
Highlander
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a Free Price Quote on a Kia Sorento.
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to confirm the accuracy of the data, it makes no guarantee or warranty,
either expressed or implied with respect to the data presented here. All
specifications, prices and equipment are subject to change without notice.
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