This past year was a rough one for automakers. The recession propelled manufacturers across the globe into one of the worst years for automotive sales in several decades, and some companies came out much worse for the wear. Even Toyota, a manufacturer that has been making headlines for its advancements in engine technology, was heavily affected by the ensuing melee, getting pounded by massive recalls and fuel economy technologies that threaten the top of the industry standing of its innovative Prius model. Even as the majority of automakers seemed to hit rock bottom, one manufacturer rose above the problems and made it a name for itself in 2009.
Amidst the failing auto market, Kia somehow managed to complete 2009 with some of the best numbers in the Korean automaker’s history. Sales were through the roof in 2009 for Kia, owing much to the brand’s unflinching promise to provide its reliable and fuel efficient cars for a much more modest asking price than most of the industry. With tight budgets everywhere, drivers were forced to evaluate cars that they might never have dreamed of buying, and it looks like visitors to Indianapolis Kia dealers were among those who were convinced that Kia is the real deal.
Now, to start off 2010, Kia has announced that it will move towards much the same excellence that made it a top-selling brand in 2009. The pricing for the 2011 Kia Sorento has just emerged, and I’d be surprised if Indianapolis Kia dealers didn’t see an influx of business as a result. The base model of the 2011 Sorento comes in just below 20k at $19,995 – a rather modest price for the five-seat unibody crossover powered by a 2.4-liter four cylinder and standard manual transmission. The engine pumps out a solid 175 horsies and 169 pound-feet of torque, lending its skills to the more upscale LX and EX models, although they come with automatic transmissions. When this vehicle comes to Indianapolis used Kia dealers, you can bet it will have a solid resale value. Read the rest of this entry »