New or Significantly Altered Models

2011 Kia Forte 5d

The Forte line will grow to add a 5-door hatchback.

2011 Kia Optima

Kia's mid-sized sedan is all-new for 2011. The most obvious difference is the aggressive new styling. The exterior features a lower roofline with distinctively shaped windows. A strong line runs along the side from the headlamps to the tail lamps. The Optima has grown considerably in wheelbase (2.9 in) and track (1.5 in). The new styling has reduced the height of the car by 1.0 in. Like its corporate relative the Sonata, the Optima features an all four cylinder lineup. A 200-bhp 2.4l four powers most models, but a 274-bhp 2.0l turbo is available in upper trim levels. A six-speed automatic is standard on all models except the base model.

2011 Kia Sorento

The Sorento switches to a unibody chassis and a FWD/AWD driveline. The new model grows by an inch in width and almost 4 inches in length. The longer body allows for an optional third row of seats. The Sorento now equips a more fuel-efficient four-cylinder engine on most models, but a new 3.5L V6 is available on higher trim levels.

2011 Kia Sportage

All new for 2011, the Sportage has dramatic new styling. The new model is longer and wider than its predecessor. A 2.4l four-cylinder engine is now the standard powertrain. Teamed with six-speed manual and automatic transmissions, the fuel economy of the new model improves significantly. The SX performance model is powered by a turbocharged 2.0l four-cylinder rated at 256-bhp.

Updated Models

2011 Kia Sedona

The 2011 Sedona has a new 3.5l V6 and six-speed automatic transmission. The front end has been restyled to match other new Kia models.

Mostly Unchanged

2011 Kia Forte

2011 Kia Forte Koup

The Koup is now offered with either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission.

2011 Kia Rio

2011 Kia Rio5

2011 Kia Soul

Discontinued

2010 Kia Rondo