Kia Announces 2003 Sorento Pricing

IRVINE, Calif., Sept. 16 -- Kia Motors America announced pricing today for the Sorento, its new midsize SUV scheduled to be in dealerships next month. The Sorento will have a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price of $19,500 for the base model, giving it a MSRP of $5,000 less than comparably equipped vehicles in its midsize class. The destination charge will be $495 per vehicle.

The base model Sorento LX includes a 3.5-liter V6 engine, automatic transmission, air conditioning, eight-speaker AM/FM/CD audio system, power windows, door locks and cruise control, 60/40 split folding rear seats, privacy glass and a full-size spare tire. The upscale EX version will have a base MSRP of $22,300, which includes features such as alloy wheels, roof rack, two-tone cladding, fog lights, power moonroof, a Delphi 10-speaker AM/FM/CD/Cassette with steering wheel controls, auto-dimming rear view mirror, remote keyless entry, eight-way power driver's seat and a HomeLink® programmable remote system. Both the LX and EX models will be available with four-wheel-drive, the LX with a MSRP of $21,300 and the EX with a MSRP of $24,100.

"We're confident that this pricing will set the Sorento apart from other midsize SUV's on the market," said Peter M. Butterfield, Kia's executive vice president and COO. "We believe the Sorento offers it all -- performance, features, safety, comfort and a price much lower than its competitors. Following on the heels of the Sedona, we believe the Sorento will be another breakthrough vehicle for Kia."

Like all Kia models, the Sorento will be covered by Kia's comprehensive warranty program, which offers exceptional 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.

Kia Motors America is the U.S. sales, marketing and service arm of Kia Motors Corp. in Seoul, South Korea.