The somewhat low prices set by the manufacturer for the model sure point to a possible hit. To be released in the US in three trims, Base, LX and EX, the model will retail starting from $18,295. For that you get the Base trim, complete with air conditioning, power windows, door locks and mirrors, SIRIUS Satellite Radio with three months complimentary service, MP3 Bluetooth.
The medium LX trim starts at $20,295 and builds on the Base model by adding outside mirrors with LED turn signal indicators and privacy glass. The top of the range EX retails from $23,295 and offers 18-inch alloy wheels, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob.
Under the hood, Kia fitted two types of engines, a 2.4l DOHC (176 hp) and a 2.0l turbo GDI (270 hp), with the latter to become available in 2011. Both engines will be offered with either a front-wheel drive or a Dynamax all-wheel drive configuration.
"Adding world-class design and cutting-edge technologies to an already successful value-packed CUV equation, the all-new Sportage offers Kia the opportunity to attract an entirely new and more sophisticated customer," Michael Sprague, Kia Motors America vice president for marketing & communications said in a statement.
"The 2011 Sportage retains the functionality and versatility of the previous generation model but repackages the CUV into a sleek, modern and bold style with new proportions and a completely new look to help elevate the Kia brand further as a world design leader."
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