2011 Kia Sorento Platinum 2.2L ‘R’ CRDi 6 Speed Automatic Long Term Test Vehicle

October 23, 2010 Rob Fraser 4WD & SUV Guide, Family Car Guide, Kia, Reviews 4
2011 Kia Sorento Platinum 2.2L 'R' CRDi 6 Speed Automatic Long Term Test Vehicle
We have taken delivery of our latest long-term test vehicle Kia’s all new 7 seat SUV Sorento Platinum with its modern and crisp styling. Launched in October 2009 the new Sorento loses the superseded models 4wd credentials but significantly lifts the comfort stakes.
 
I missed the launch in 2009 and this is the first time I have had a chance to drive the new Sorento and my first impressions are excellent.
 
Kia kindly gave us the high-tech R-series 2.2l turbo diesel engine with 6-speed automatic transmission. It produces 145kW @3,8000rpm and an astounding 436Nm from 1,800 – 2,500rpmtorque. The engine delivers fuel consumption (ADR Combined) of just 7.4L/100km and produces 194g/km of CO2 emissions. The Green Vehicle Guide rating is 3-stars.
This motor transmission combination pouts a number of Japanese diesel motors to shame. Toyota take note.
 
The 4WD is a single ratio (high range) 4WD system, with a default status that delivers 100% of engine torque to the front wheels. ’Lock Mode’ splits the torque 50/50 between the front and rear axles for better stability and maintain that split up to a speed of 30 kmh.
 
With a 5-Star Euro NCAP rating it is equipped with dual front airbags, dual front side airbags and full-length side curtain airbags (linked to rollover sensors as well as impact sensors) maximise head protection for all occupants.
2011 Kia Sorento Platinum 2.2L 'R' CRDi 6 Speed Automatic Long Term Test Vehicle 2010 Model Shown

Inside styling has an entirely new ambience. Immediate impressions are of the cabin’s generous proportions, sweeping dashboard design, high-quality fit, discreet trim accents, leather and the availability of numerous high-tech features.

The vehicle we have is the 2011 model upgrade with the latest Bluetooth technology providing hands-free mobile phone connectivity and media streaming, all operated through steering wheel mounted controls.

Also included is an upgraded in-mirror display rear view camera offering a higher resolution image and parking guide lines, making the accidental ‘touch park’ a thing of the past, the instrument cluster housing has received a new leather wrap and the front passenger window is now automatic both up and down with a built-in safety function. The panoramic sunroof is now alarmed which is activated when the car is “OFF” and the driver’s door is opened

2011 Kia Sorento Platinum 2.2L 'R' CRDi 6 Speed Automatic Long Term Test Vehicle

The Sorento has an overall length of 4685mm, wheelbase of 2700mm, width of 1885mm and height of 1710mm. The ground clearance is 184mm and the Tare mass is 1959kg.
Sorento has a MLP of $49,190 for the Sorento Platinum ‘R’ Series 2.2L diesel with 6 speed automatic. The Sorento comes Kia’s amazing 5 yr Unlimited km warranty, stylish looks, great performance and interior space.

Stay tuned over the coming months, as the Kia is inducted into family life, transporting hordes of teenagers around, towing camper trailers and seadoos, used as a transporter for gear and general runabout.

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About Rob Fraser 2510 Articles
Rob Fraser – General dogsbody & Director Rob is the founder of the business. He constantly mutters something about way too many red wines one evening being to blame. Often known for taking the 4WD in the driveway over the sports car, he has travelled pretty much everywhere in Australia and when he is bored goes for a drive. He first learned to drive on the farm in a left hand drive WW11 Jeep when he was 11, and was hooked on 4WDriving way back then. In addition to 4WD he is an avid motoring enthusiast and has maintained a strong interest in the industry ever since his teens. He has owned way too many cars in his time as well. Having previously lived at the top of corporate life he retired in 2000 and hasn’t put a suit and tie on since. Cars are his passion so why not have a business doing what you love he figures. He has towed either a caravan or camper trailer to most parts of Australia, has run guided tours for camper trailers’ and instructed drivers in off road towing.
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4 Comments

  2. I have to comment here. Which is not something I typically do! I enjoy reading through a post that will make people think. Also, thanks for enabling me to comment!

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  4. I would really like to hear now, a year later, how towing and hauling went with this vehicle

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