Overview & Reviews

For 2008, the Kia Sorento gains a new V6 engine for the base and LX trim levels. At 3.3 liters and 242 horsepower, the new power plant is smaller and less powerful than the 3.8-liter V6 found in the EX trim. In exchange, it offers somewhat improved fuel economy.

• Impressive list of standard features, solid construction, high-quality materials, decent off-road capability.

• So-so fuel economy, ride can get bouncy over broken pavement, mediocre braking performance in demanding situations, disappointing side-impact crash results.

User Reviews:

Showing 1 through 10 of 42.00

• 

  Wish I had read the reviews - 2008 Kia Sorento
  By lsunburst - February 22 - 9:05 pm

  I bought a used Sorento with low miles a little less than a year ago. The car has been in the shop for a faulty transmission sensor 3 times without much of an explanation from the service department (the positive is all repairs have been covered under warranty). I wish I had read the reviews before purchasing, as the HARD shift and the passenger air bag comments would have alerted me I might not be happy with the choice. I have lost my faith in this car due to the transmission issues, and am looking at trading it in.

• 

  Mistake - 2008 Kia Sorento
  By kia girl - August 7 - 11:06 am

  I had a 2006 Sorento just loved it! Then Nov 4 2008 my dealership called w a great deal. I went for it the car had all I wanted in the 2006. The very next day had to take the car back it stumbled and then I had now RPMs. Turned it off then restart then off I go. They replaced the throttle sensor. Weeks later take it back for the same thing the clean a rodent nest they sold me, out of the air intake. lets just say have had this dang car in every week since ownership. Its going back in the AM its done it again and I have had it back for 6 days. I just paid my second payment I am sorry for making this trade.

• 

  Where should I start? - 2008 Kia Sorento
  By Barbara - March 17 - 3:46 am

  There was a vibration when idling from the start. We took it to the dealer and they kept it off and on for about 5 weeks. They couldnt seem to find the source of the vibration. They replaced a couple of computers; then the transmission,then a module,etc. The vibration is better but still not as quiet as a new car should be. We get about 18/19 mpg. No seat belt light issue at all.The dealership has gone above and beyond to please us,but they now say this is not uncommon in the 2008 model. Why didnt they say that when we first complained? We are disappointed that our first new car in years has/had this problem thats not really fixed. We may trade it before something else happens.

• 

  I love my Kia - 2008 Kia Sorento
  By Lea Ann - May 26 - 10:00 am

  I read so many reviews on here before I bought my Kia, so I wanted to return the favor. After much research and prayer, I bought my 08 Sorento with 7000 miles on it. Got a great price, but was apprehensive about the name. I have driven it daily for over a year and have had NO problems of any kind. I spoke at length with a Kia mechanic and he told me the 08s and later were much better designed and were on par with Toyota quality--without the price tag. I have found that to be true. Love the powerful V6 engine, sporty body style, and handling. I does ride a bit rough, as it is on an SUV frame, but I already knew it would so it doesnt bother me. Dont be afraid of the Kia name!

• 

  Very Pleased - 2008 Kia Sorento
  By Nik - April 17 - 2:00 am

  I test drove many vehicles and the Sorento proved to be the smoothest ride out of those tested in my price range. I had heard negative feedback from the older versions of KIA vehicles which made me nervous but I decided to take a chance based on the look, feel and value for my money. It turned out to be a great choice! Very quiet and smooth. Im loving it!

• 

  4x4 ex Kia Sorento - 2008 Kia Sorento
  By bwinquist - November 1 - 9:40 am

  Purchased this Sorento ex 4x4..to it for a 400 mile test drive and found it to handle well on highway-no unreasonable vibrations, handles well, good turning radius, good acceleration. The seating however, is quite hard. Perhap this can be an improvement for future. Good legroom for driver and passenger, the steering wheel could perhaps elevate higher. The wheel base should be longer to allow for greater back cargo storage. The seats do not fold down well wihout adjusting the headrests.

• 

  Good trade-up - 2008 Kia Sorento
  By P - August 19 - 6:50 am

  I purchased my Sorento and am luvin it. I had a sports car and got tired of it due to a lifestyle change.

• 

  Bang for the Buck Truck - 2008 Kia Sorento
  By Rodney Allen - June 20 - 10:26 pm

  After looking at lots of V6 midsized SUVs, I bought an `08 Sorento LX two weeks ago and have been very happy with it--once I tracked down a rattle up front and a chain-like jingle coming from somewhere in the rear. The rattle was caused by the garage door opener compartment. I fixed it by putting two washcloths in it, which put some pressure on the plastic door, as well as providing some sound baffling. The chain-like jingle was coming from the latch on the rear hatch. Some silicone lubricant put an end to that. With those initial annoyances out of the way, I was free to enjoy the refined character of the Sorento--great looks, good performance, unmatched value. This truck is a real deal.

• 

  Wanted one for years - 2008 Kia Sorento
  By Gary L. - February 7 - 11:03 am

  This is not your typical Kia. With 242 horsepower this truck comes with lots of power, I was very impressed with the acceleration ability of this vehicle. Roars like a truck! Not annoying loud, just loud enough to remind you every time you start it that this is not a crossover SUV. Very stylish and fun to drive.

• 

  Not bad, could be better - 2008 Kia Sorento
  By Looking to trade - April 30 - 2:53 am

  I traded a sedan for the Sorento. I use it to transport bikes and dogs (one of which is a 75 lb. Greyhound) and commute to work. I wanted a vehicle that sat higher than a car and had plenty of cargo room. I drive combined city/highway and get 22.5 mpg. Ive had trouble with the passenger airbag-my brother (140 lb.) has ridden with me and one minute the airbag sensor screen shows its on, then a few minutes later its off. Doesnt exactly make you feel safe. Theres a rattle (already) on the drivers side that the dealership fixed, then a few weeks later it came back.