2003 Kia Sorento Review

　　

zzdcar' Expert Review

by the zzdcar Experts

　　

What’s new

　　The Sorento is an all-new SUV from Kia. Larger and more powerful than the pint-size Sportage (which is expected to return for 2004 after a 2003 hiatus, by the way), the Sorento straddles the emerging middle ground between small SUVs and midsize SUVs. And it does so while offering interested buyers true off-road ability. Key competitors are the Ford Escape, the Honda CR-V, the Jeep Liberty, the Nissan Xterra and the Toyota Highlander.

　　

zzdcar says

　　Good-looking, comfortable, rugged and well-equipped, the new Sorento will force consumers to view Kia in a new light.

　　

Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2003 Kia Sorento LX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.04 per gallon for regular unleaded in North Dakota.

Monthly estimates based on costs in North Dakota

　　$241/mo  for Sorento LX

　　Sorento LX

　　LX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A) - $19,995 MSRPLX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A) - $21,900 MSRPEX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A) - $22,900 MSRPEX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A) (Most Popular) - $24,700 MSRP

　　vs

　　$183/mo

　　Avg. Midsize SUV

　　

2003 Sorento Highlights

Trim: LXEXLX

　　

Base MSRP	$19,995
Engine Type	Gas
Combined MPG	15 MPG
Cost to Drive	$241/month
Seating	5 seats
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place	31.4 cu.ft.
Drivetrain	rear wheel drive
Warranty	5 years / 60,000 miles