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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  They did this one right - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By bbigno - July 31 - 10:00 am

  In the past 3 months I have put over 8000 miles on my KIA, and every one was smooth. This vehicale was much more than I had expected. If the future continues like the past three months have, I will be a happy KIA owner.

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  Sorento Ex - A Pleasant Surprise - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By ljerralds - July 26 - 10:00 am

  My experience with the Sorento was definitely a nice surprise. It handles well, the drive is great. It is like driving a car. The ride is not rugged. I have not had any problems so far. You get a lot of vehicle for the price. This is my 3rd Kia vehicle. Kia has one of the best warranties.

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  Kia Sorento EX An Unbelievable Value - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By Doug Seaman - July 26 - 12:13 am

  This vehicle will take over many other top selling SUVs as its reputation gains credibility. When my wife said we WERE going to look at a Sorento I LAUGHED. I went along for the ride and was impressed. We also looked at Lexus, Trailblazer, Hyundai Tucson & Buick. Kia Sorento won hands down!

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  My New Toy - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By C E Camacho - July 22 - 7:26 pm

  The Sorento was the last SUV in my list of cars I was contemplating buying. It fell right within my budget, and once I test drove it, I knew it would be the SUV Id be buying. I also spoke to a mechanic friend of mind who sold me on the Sorentos reliability and good looks. This is my first SUV and love the handling and security it gives me once inside.

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  Hard on the wallet - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By Tesha - July 18 - 10:00 am

  Gorgeous on the outside. Useless on the inside. Of the hood, that is. Ran great until I hit 100,000 miles. Since, my power steering, fly wheel, transmission and ac have went out, not to mention a few other minor problems. I will never recommend this vehicle to anyone. I have taken great care of this vehicle, keeping everything up to date and new but it has not returned the favor. It would be nice if the vehicle was as cheap as its quality.

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  super bang for the buc!!! - 2007 Kia Sorento
  By firstshirt - July 12 - 3:23 pm

  Outstanding fit and finish. Looked at SUVs for 6 mo and finally settled on the Sorento. Boy what a joy to drive. The looks alone make it a neat vehicle. The warranty and the dealer support is great. we love the way you sit up and the turning radius. The 262 HP is nice also. The 4 wheel dive is excellent and gets me to all my favorite fishing spots in Colorado. Buy one and you wont be disappointed.

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  We plan on keeping this car - 2013 Kia Sorento
  By deercreek - July 9 - 8:58 pm

  The Kia SUV has been more than we expected, I traded in a SRX Cad. and didnt think it would hold up to such a nice riding car, but it has made us happy about our investment. We are pleased the car is made in the USA what a bonus.

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  Great Car for the $$ - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By Leslie - July 8 - 11:03 am

  I bought the Sorento for my company car and 227,000 miles later am amazed at how its held up. No its not a Lexus, but with only minor problems in 5 years I am looking to buy another one. I have owned GM, Ford and Toyota cars and this Korean one has been by far the least trouble and the overall best ride. I have recommended it to many who were skeptical when I purchased it!

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  2005 Kia Sorento 4WD SUV , LOADED - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By Charles - July 5 - 9:30 am

  This car really drives nice in town and on the road. It has good storage space with the seats letting all the way down and with the back seats up. It has extremely good storage in the passenger compartment for books, knickknacks etc and two user friendly cup holders in the front and about four in the rear. Easy access to the rear storage arear thru either the glass hatch or the full hatch.

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  Rear Passenger Door Wont Open - 2012 Kia Sorento
  By annoyed7 - July 2 - 10:26 pm

  Purchased 2012 Sorrento Ex in June and 3 days after purchasing it we had problems with the rear passenger door. It would either stick or would not open at all. We had it at the dealership numerous times to try and fix it. The last time we had taken it in they said they were going to order a whole new door panel. We had to wait weeks for it to arrive from Korea. It was finally fixed or so we thought. About 8 weeks later the door will still not open. Presently the door has not opened for close to two weeks now. We have 3 children and feel this suv is not safe to drive. Trying to get Kia to help is very difficult. It is usually days to get a response from them.