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.
|
 Get
a Free Price Quote on a Kia Sorento.
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| Fast Stats
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| Seats |
5
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| MSRP
from |
$20,495
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| Engine |
3.5L V6
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| Horsepower |
124 @ 6,000
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| Transmission |
4-speed auto
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| MPG:
City/Hwy |
4x2: 15 / 20
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4x4: 15 / 18
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2003
Kia Sorento - Specs
