2011 Kia Sportage SX Turbo: official details, specs and pricing

The 2011 Kia Sportage SX compact CUV has been launched and will be arriving at dealerships later this month. The North American division of Kia said that the SX models will be available with a more powerful four-cylinder turbo engine and will come with exterior and interior styling enhancements. The front-wheel drive (FWD) model has a starting price of $25,795, while the all-wheel drive (AWD) models are priced from $27,295. The 2011 Kia Sportage SX compact CUV will feature the Theta II 2.0-liter Turbo GDI engine, the second vehicle from Kia that will feature this engine aside from the 2011 Optima Turbo. The unit can deliver up to 256hp and 264 pound-feet of peak torque, while it delivers a fuel economy of 26 mpg.

The Sportage SX has been equipped with sport-tuned suspension featuring firmer shock and strut rates for improved handling and dynamic performance over non-SX models. The SX models have been equipped with unique 18" alloy wheels, a signature SX grille, dual exhaust, and special side sill moldings. The updates made on the exterior are complemented by SX-specific interior improvements, including standard aluminum door sills and a sleek new supervision gauge cluster.

The Orange and Blue interior color packages are offered exclusively on the Sportage SX. Opting for the Orange Color Package means that the CUV will get orange stitching on the steering wheel, center console, and seats as well as orange accents on the door panels and air vents. The Blue Color Package includes a unique blue patterned cloth seat and blue interior accents. Sportage LX and EX trims are offered as standard with a 2.4-liter DOHC 16-valve four-cylinder engine with Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT), which delivers up to 176 hp and has a better fuel economy rating than the previous 2.7-liter V6 engine.[via - 4wheelsnews]