Overview & Reviews

When the midsize Kia Sorento first appeared, it featured a traditional, trucklike (body-on-frame) design that provided a level of ruggedness not typically found on crossover SUVs. Blessed with above-average off-roading and towing abilities, the V6-powered first-generation Sorento won our respect for its practical nature. It also boasted impressive value, offering the dimensions of a midsize SUV at a compact-crossover price point.

But the original Sorento was clearly out of sync with the crossover craze. Nowadays, most consumers want the more fuel-efficient and better handling qualities that carlike (unibody) architecture provides. So Kia provided precisely that with its second- and third-generation Sorento models. These newer Sorentos are among the best picks for a small or midsize crossover SUV thanks to their choice of four-cylinder or V6 power, roomy interiors, available third-row seat and extensive warranty coverage.

Current Kia Sorento
For 2014, the Kia Sorento enters its third generation. Although the styling is essentially carried over apart from minor front and rear end updates, the latest Sorento features a new chassis, a redesigned cabin and a new V6 engine. The stiffer chassis and revised suspension combine to improve handling and ride comfort compared to the second-generation version.

The Sorento's base 2.4-liter four-cylinder generates 191 horsepower and 181 pound-feet of torque, while the uplevel engine, a 3.3-liter V6, makes 290 hp and 252 lb-ft of torque. Both are matched to a six-speed automatic transmission, and there is a choice of standard front-wheel drive or optional all-wheel drive.

A redesigned cabin offers an optional navigation system with 8-inch touchscreen that also interfaces with UVO eServices, Kia's name for its suite of smartphone-enabled apps. A premium Infinity audio system is available, as are a power liftgate (with height adjustment), a panoramic sunroof, ventilated front seats and a blind-spot monitoring system, the first such system available on any Kia model. Trim levels include LX, EX, SX and SXL.

In reviews, we've been impressed by the Sorento's intuitive controls and user-friendly voice-command system. Seat comfort in the first and second rows is solid, although the third row is best left for kids. On the road, the Sorento feels a bit underpowered with the four-cylinder engine. Considering the mere 1 mpg (combined estimate) difference between the two, the notably better-performing V6 is well worth the added cost. The Sorento is exceptionally quiet and the suspension soaks up bumps with ease. The Kia's handling and steering are far from sporty, but it's certainly sure-footed enough for a family vehicle. In city traffic and parking lots the Sorento feels smaller than it really is and in general is more maneuverable than larger seven-passenger SUVs. Poor rearward visibility can make backing into a tight space seem daunting, but the available rearview camera and parking sensors make the task much easier.

Used Kia Sorento Models
The second-generation Kia Sorento debuted in 2011 and was produced until 2013. As with the current model, it was available with four-cylinder or V6 power and had an available third-row seat. Thanks to a roomy interior, plenty of features and an attractive price, it's a great choice for a used crossover SUV.

Kia offered this Sorento in LX, EX and SX trim levels. Five-passenger seating was standard on all but the LX V6 and SX, which came with the otherwise optional 50/50 split-folding third-row seat that raised capacity to seven.

A 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with 175 hp and 169 lb-ft of torque was standard on the LX. A direct-injected version of this engine (with 191 hp and 181 lb-ft) debuted for 2012 and was optional on the LX and standard on the EX. Standard on the SX and optional on the others was a 3.5-liter V6 with 276 hp and 248 lb-ft. All Sorento trims had a six-speed automatic. Front-wheel drive was standard, while all-wheel drive was available.

Even the base model came with alloy wheels, full power accessories, air-conditioning, a tilt-and-telescoping multifunction steering wheel and Bluetooth connectivity. Upper trims offered standard and optional niceties like a back-up camera, dual-zone automatic climate control, leather upholstery, a ventilated driver seat, a panoramic sunroof, a navigation system, UVO voice activation and an Infinity sound system.

In reviews, we were impressed with the third-generation Kia Sorento. The base 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine was a bit buzzy and overtaxed in this application, so we recommend going with the upgraded four-cylinder or the V6. On the road, the Sorento provided a smooth and quiet ride as well as secure handling. Seating was comfortable, and the available third-row bench could even accommodate adults on short trips, making the Sorento an affordable alternative to full-size three-row crossovers.

Prior to this was the first-generation Kia Sorento that was produced from 2003-'09 (there was no 2010 model). It debuted with a 3.5-liter, 192-hp V6 in LX or EX trim. LX models had either a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic transmission, while the EX came only with the automatic. From 2005 on, the automatic was a five-cog unit. Both part-time and full-time 4WD were available, depending on the trim, and both systems included low-range gearing, a feature absent from the current Sorento. For 2007, all Sorentos were upgraded to an all-aluminum 3.8-liter V6 engine good for 262 hp, and the interior received a different dash design and better-quality materials. For 2008-'09, a base model with a 3.3-liter V6 was introduced, and the LX got this engine as well; the EX, however, kept the 3.8-liter V6.

Standard equipment on the first-generation Sorento included air-conditioning, full power accessories, a CD audio system, multiple power points and 60/40-split flip-and-fold rear seats. Upper trims added items like alloy wheels, a sunroof, keyless entry, cruise control and leather upholstery. Dual-zone automatic climate control, leather upholstery and heated front seats were among the notable options.

In reviews, we noted that this Kia Sorento changed considerably over the years, so if you want more power and a higher-quality cabin, it's best to focus your attention on more recent model years. The late-arriving 3.8-liter V6 had plenty of power, and all Sorentos excelled off-road relative to car-based rivals. The cabin had an abundance of storage space, the front seats were well-shaped and three could be seated in the rear if need be, though knee and toe room were somewhat tight. Downsides included lackluster on-pavement handling and ride quality and below-average fuel economy. But if you're looking for an affordable SUV that can take on the occasional camping trip without breaking a sweat, a used Sorento's worth a look.

User Reviews:

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  bad apple - 2007 Kia Sorento
  By cindy ingram - December 3 - 9:20 pm

  I have had my Sorento for almost two years and at first I loved it but after my first service it started hesitating at steady speeds or slowing down. They cant fix it because they only hook it up to a machine that tells them what is wrong and it shows nothing so they keep sending me home with the problem. I have learned a lesson about KIAs and that is to run as far away as you can get from them. They are junk. I know things happen with vehicles but normally you can get them repaired. I hate it. If you buy one you better beware because they are not worth anything when you try to trade them in.

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  Unsatisfied - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By Andrea - December 1 - 6:00 am

  After 3mths of owning this SUV, problems started happening. First a mousy sound comes from the radio console, 2nd my belt screeches from time to time and they cant find a problem, 3rd a paper crumbling noise comes from the dash/windshield area and they tried fixing it 3 times. I give up! 4th, the ac blower was replaced, 5th, a squealing noise from the outside happens when going slow which is the power steering rack and is being replaced, 6th the power window on the drivers side is moving slow and the motor is making a noise, 7th, when accelerating (I have 5 speed) a ringing noise can be heard when the windows are down and 8th, door handles and seat belt holders make noises. I have a lemon!

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  Sorento EX V6 AWD 2006 RAV4 Limited AWD - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By sarge - November 26 - 10:00 am

  For $2K more than I paid for my RAV4 4 years ago, I got a lot more. Leather, GPS w/bluetooth/voice activated, rear camera w/backup warning, chrome 18" wheels, more room in 3rd row seat and easier to get in/out, 6 speed auto, FOB keyless, etc. Paid $30K (w/o tax, lic). RAV4 drives stiffer. It will also blow the doors off the KIA with its 269 HP 5 spd auto! Kias mpg has gotten better. Was 16.5, now 18-19 city. Hwy can get 23 mpg. Now, all the complaints other reviewers had, I havent experienced. Hope I dont. But, the tranny on the RAV4 (64K miles) leaked oil. Dealer said $1800 minimum to fix. Shaft to transaxle had 3 cracks on it! Out of warranty. Toyota did a good-will on it. Cost me $165.

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  Great so far, could improve on gas a little - 2012 Kia Sorento
  By pdona - November 25 - 6:47 pm

  We bought the Kia Sorrento 4cyl, GDI AWD after doing lots of research. We wanted 3rd row seat, and good on gas. Minor problem is gas milage is averaging 19-22 with the regular grade gas. That is averaged quite a few ways from mostly highway to both. Our first trip was about 600 round trip miles going to Lake George, Ny on the highway, average was 21mpg Next step is to try the better grade of gasoline, maybe that will make the difference to be worth the expense. Hopefully its in its "Break In" period. Weve gotten numerous compliments on how SHARP the vehicle looks and are satisfied so far !

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  Great Deal!! - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By Satisfied for Now!!! - November 23 - 1:26 am

  I have been driving a compact car for almost 10 years so this purchase was a major adjustment. I like the interior size, the quiet ride, the powertrain warranty, and the overall style of the vehicle.

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  Ongoing Problem Kia Cant Fix - 2006 Kia Sorento
  By SWFang - November 22 - 2:10 pm

  I love the vehicle inside and out. It drives and handles well. The only problem I have is the engine light comes on and off at random always giving the same code (P506) and the vehicle stalls at random usually from a cold start, but sometimes when the vehicle is in motion. Kia has tried to fix these problems at least 4 times each but have had no success. Apparently, they want me to constantly take the vehicle in for service each time the problems happen, but its impossible for me to do so every week. Kia doesnt seem too concerned about the problems and has said they will make no offer to resolve the problem.

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  Gas Mileage - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By rbiggs - November 22 - 2:00 am

  This is the second KIA that my family owns. We bought a 2003 Sedona Van and love both of them. Regarding the gas mileage,I found that the Ford Explorer with a V6 engine gets the same mileage as the Sedona and Sorento. The Chevrolet Trail Blazer also gets the same, so I feel the 15 to 20 miles a gallon is about average for a V6. also the V6 in the KIA is a larger V6 than most.

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  2004 Sorento EX - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By donjw - November 22 - 2:00 am

  Had doubts about the name KIA and after putting on over 8,000 miles on a trip we have no doubts about the name. The vehicle has performed better than expected. Only a few minor design changes would make this vehicle a perfect "10".

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  I Realy Admire my Kia - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By Francis St.Jacques J - November 22 - 2:00 am

  The Sorento has gone thru one of the worst winters we have had in New England, I always made it thru the large amounts of snow with only one modification (snow tires). I needed to use 4 wheel one time but was very glad to have it when the time came. The ride quality for such an inexpensive vehicle is amazing. I have several customers that have driven my vehicle and comented on its ride,power and comfort(several Lexus drivers too)

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  I Love My KIA - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By Bnkr627 - November 22 - 2:00 am

  We decided to consider purchasing SUV after using 2003 KIA as rental car for 3 weeks, while current auto, 96 Taurus SHO being repaired. Reviewed several SUVs, chose 2004 KIA EX for its style, good looks, road handling, and roominess. Much easier to get children in and out of car seats. Very affordable!