- The 2011 Sportage will be available in three trim levels instead of only two for the 2010 model.
- The price increase reflects the larger, stronger engine and more refined powertrain of the 2011 model.
- Kia has yet to announce pricing on the optional UVO in-vehicle communication and entertainment system.
SAN FRANCISCO — The redesigned 2011 Kia Sportage will start at $18,990, including a $695 destination charge, when it goes on sale later this month, Kia announced on Tuesday. That reflects a $1,600 price increase over the base 2010 Sportage, which starts at $17,390, including destination.
The 2011 Kia Sportage will be available in three trim levels: base, LX and EX. In contrast, the 2010 Sportage was only available in LX and EX trim levels.
The pricing increase was expected, given that Kia added content to the Sportage, most notably a standard 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 176 horsepower and is linked to a six-speed manual transmission. The base 2010 Sportage was equipped with a 140-hp 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with a five-speed manual transmission.
The 2011 Sportage LX starts at $20,990, including shipping. The LX model adds standard outside mirrors with LED turn signal indicators and privacy glass over the base model. The 2011 Sportage EX model starts at $23,990, including shipping. It adds such standard features as 18-inch alloy wheels, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob.
The 2010 Sportage LX starts at $17,390, including shipping. The 2010 Sportage EX starts at $22,690, including shipping.
Kia did not announce pricing on the optional UVO Powered by Microsoft in-vehicle communication and entertainment system based on the Windows Embedded Automotive platform. The system is expected to be available on the Sportage in late 2010.
Inside Line says: It comes as no surprise that more content and refinement on the 2011 Sportage translate to a higher sticker price. — Anita Lienert, Correspondent
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