WEST POINT, Ga. — Welcome to the world of family crossovers — Kia style.

The South Korean automaker has taken its body-on-frame first-generation compact Sorento, sold in the U.S. from 2002 through 2009, and changed just about everything but the name. The result is an extremely appealing 2011 family hauler.

So why did Kia retain the name on a vehicle so much different — and so much better — than the previous edition? Officials say because it carries a lot of brand equity. If current owners like their Sorento, they will love the new one.

We drove two versions from Atlanta to the new $1 billion Kia plant here south of Atlanta near the Alabama state line that started production of sale-able models in late October.

The exterior and interior design (the work of former Audi chief designer Peter Schreyer), the driving dynamics, and the build quality are impressive.

A new 3.6-liter 273-horsepower V-6 mated to an automatic transmission features lively performance. Merging and reaching highway speed on congested Atlanta freeways was effortless. The base engine is a fuel-efficient 2.4-liter 4-cylinder making 172 horsepower, also mated to a six-speed automatic, that we feel will satisfy most buyers. It offers 29 mpg on the highway, and can be paired with a six-speed manual in base form.

All Sorentos come with a high level of standard features and a full array of safety equipment. And all models can be purchased with either two-wheel or all-wheel drive. For those who tow weekend toys, towing capacity is a competitive 3,500 pounds.

A selling point for families with kids — an avilable third-row seat.

The new Sorento went on sale in January. There is no 2010 model.

   — Jim Meachen