2003 Kia Sorento Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.60/5 Average
321 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

The Sorento is an all-new SUV from Kia. Larger and more powerful than the pint-size Sportage (which is expected to return for 2004 after a 2003 hiatus, by the way), the Sorento straddles the emerging middle ground between small SUVs and midsize SUVs. And it does so while offering interested buyers true off-road ability. Key competitors are the Ford Escape, the Honda CR-V, the Jeep Liberty, the Nissan Xterra and the Toyota Highlander.

Pros:
  • Great value, class-leading warranty coverage, long list of standard features, solid construction, true off-road capability.
Cons:
  • Engine needs more power, subpar fuel economy, seat upholstery could stand improvement.

User Reviews:

Showing 91 through 100 of 321.00
  • My Sorento - 2003 Kia Sorento
    By -

    From the first time I viewed this SUV in person, I fell in love with it. I owned a corolla (2000) for almost 3 years and was looking at midsize SUVs. My Sorento handles great on the snow and rain (comes with standard Michelan all terrain) I drove from nyc to orlando in April; filled up 4 times. I feel like i got a luxury suv for half the price. At first i was wary of the fact that kia made the car, but after talking to some kia owners in my neighborhood and online research I decided to take a chance on kia. Now I know I made the right choice. I get stopped at least twice a week by people inquiring about the car. I love it much more than my corolla.

  • Turning sour on a lemon - 2003 Kia Sorento
    By -

    We loved this SUV at first; great in the snow, nice interior and good price for features. However, now in its third year, it is falling apart. The transmission plug fell out, requiring a new transmission. Kia paid however we had to pay for the rental. Then one of the belt pulleys broke off requiring a new "lower engine block" This second repair took two weeks. Kia covered rental for this repair, but nothing for the inconvenience. Still like the vehicle, but I probably made a mistake buying it the first year out.

  • Good luck to the competition - 2003 Kia Sorento
    By -

    I am 53 years old, I have had at least 20 vehicles. Including, a limited edition Cadillac Boritz. This vehicle has been given great thought in its design. They have numerous places for items, including a large drawer under the passenger seat for maps, etc. There are several outlets inside the vehicle. The door handles light up for easy key access at night. This in itself is a key item for safety in this day and age. The ignition also lights up. I could continue with some more major items, but simply this is the best vehicle I have ever owned.

  • My Sorento! I Love it! - 2003 Kia Sorento
    By -

    I checking the SUVs that are affordable for me and also are comparable to expensive SUVs, since one year. Came across KIA Sorento. As it was KIA so I wasnt sure whether it is I should buy it or not. Started to read its reviews, and found that everyone is saying it is a great SUV. Finally I decided and got one last month. I really like this SUV.

  • What a SUV should be - 2003 Kia Sorento
    By -

    After test driving the Sorento, I knew this would be the SUV for me. Exterior styling is right on. Interior was well laid out with good quality. Maybe too much hard plastic in some areas, but nothing that youd be embarrased showing off to friends and family. Driving impressions were great. Very solid feeling, plenty of power, smooth shifting, decent handling. Built on a truck frame adds to the solid, rugged feel, and makes it a much more capable off road vehicle, if you are so inclined. For the price, the Sorento really is in a class of its own.

  • BEst Vehicle Made - 2003 Kia Sorento
    By -

    Vehicle is amazing in snow, I took this car up north where it proved to me the reliability of Korean 4x4 Engineering. Heavy Duty frame makes this car extremely stable being able to withstand any load of force. Driving is extremely smooth, feeling of complete control on the road.

  • Excellent Value! - 2003 Kia Sorento
    By -

    What a great SUV for the money! Hugs the road, quick and responsive, easy to drive and comfortable. Lots of bonus storage & cup holders. Despite hearing concerns about the MPG, Ive been averaging 17, which is fine with me. I love the exterior styling and the luxury touches. The cargo room is deceivingly large - I call it my "clown car". I never thought Id be so thrilled to own a KIA! Why pay $15K more for a comparable SUV???

  • Fun to drive - 2003 Kia Sorento
    By -

    I love the Kia Sorento.

  • should cost more than it does - 2003 Kia Sorento
    By -

    I love this car! It has all the bells and whistles of the high end SUVs without the pricetag. As others have stated gas mileage could be better, but its not bad for a 6 cyl. all wheel drive SUV. I have the luxury package and believe you me it feels like a million bucks!

  • i like my kia - 2003 Kia Sorento
    By -

    i am very pleased with my car ..........

Kia Sorento Reviews By Year:
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