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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  Very Disappointed - 2015 Kia Sorento
  By Kevin Morawsli - June 13 - 6:22 am

  Lots of issues with this vehicle. Very dangerous blindspot on both sides. Doing an over the shoulder check is a must before changing lanes or backing up. Fuel consumption is terrible with the 2.4 liter engine. My F150 is much better. Steering wheel bottom controls not well placed. I would inadvertently activeate certain functions when sliding hand to bottom of steer wheel. I also noted lots of road noise when driving at highway speed. Seems that Kia may have scimped on the insulation. The factory installed remote start has lots of issues. The normal key FOB does not support a remote start so you need to carry two all the time. There also lots of issues with with the car alarm going off when using the remote start. Very poor design. The #1 issue overall is the suspension and ride. Its like driving a tank. Very uncomfortable and rough to drive. All that being said, I would not recommend you buy this car. Too many issues and not enough solutions.

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  Most car for the Money - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By Dick H - December 30 - 1:46 am

  I installed a higher cranking amp battery and havent replaced any lights since. At 99400 miles the rear U-joint caused vibration at higher speeds then at low speed. It was replaced fully under warranty. In fact, KIA replaced the total driveshaft and support bushing with all related parts free. These reports stating bad warranty are incorrect. KIA is very good! Another car with the same equipment would cost over $30,000.00 compared to $20,000.00 for a new 09 Sorento. Great car fun to drive sure feeling great pickup. Not easy on gas though. Only draw back.

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  Best mid-size SUV on the market today - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By cooooolio - December 29 - 3:07 pm

  I bought my 2011 Sorento SX AWD new and it has been an absolute pleasure to drive. It is the best new car Ive ever owned in my 50+ years on this planet. It was heavily researched before purchasing and there were very, very few negative reviews. Anything that did come up was related to some early transmission problems on the 4 cylinder models. The 2011 Sorento has been a joy to drive and I expect to drive it well past the 10 year/100,00 mile warranty. KIA knocked it out of the park with the Sorento.

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  I Love My Sorento! - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By Molley - December 29 - 2:00 am

  The warrenty cant be beat. pick the one you want, price it and shop the dealerships on-line. keep shopping them until you get the best price. Its a wonderful car, I love mine. Looks like a Lexus but priced like a Kia.

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  Kia review - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By punkin72977 - December 29 - 2:00 am

  I thought it would be a big change from driving a car at first it was but it handles great. The gas mileage could be better but what do you expect these days nothing gets as good gas mileage as it used to.

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  Love it - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By Kia Owner - December 29 - 2:00 am

  Never been happier with an SUV. Owned Hondas for the past 15 years with much satisfaction, but I cant say enough about the Kia Sorento. Much more for the money than anything wlse I test drove, including BMW x5,x3 & Lexus RX330. Buy one and youll see for yourself.

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  lx 4 wheel drive 3.5atuo - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By joseph daquila - December 29 - 2:00 am

  this suv is a good handling machine , with features ready to go , do ur comparsion and ur come back

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  Excellent except for the gas mileage - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By JoeG - December 29 - 2:00 am

  Excellent vehicle. Fun to drive. Head turner. Good handling. Quite. I had factory problem with engine. Kia immediately gave me a whole new engine - no hassels.

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  My Kia Sorento - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By Kiddo - December 29 - 2:00 am

  For the money and safety ratings, I think that the Kia Sorento is the best mid size Suv. We love ours. We have had no problems with it since we bought it 10 months ago. It drives very well, and has a very comfortable ride to it. It has plenty of power for towing my 18 CC fishing boat.

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  great vehicle - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By DGagliardo - December 29 - 2:00 am

  the best vehicle I have owned, very well constructed and solid, fun to drive and smooth on the freeways.