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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  Electrical systems from the 1950s - 2006 Kia Sorento
  By Rich Hart - July 1 - 11:37 am

  Overall, a comfortable (Im 63") solid vehicle, but poor fuel economy and many electrical problems. Dome light diode (whoever heard of such a thing), door lock actuator (never had one fail even in the GM garbage of the 70s and 80s), heater blend door actuator, and crankshaft angle sensor ($900 repair to replace shitty magnetic pick up, but buried in engine). The sunroof plastic guide rail broke at 5 years with little use, so roof will slide but wont tilt. Temperature gauge has never worked reliably, even after 3 trips to dealer when new. I finally gave up as it wasnt important. Factory replacement windshield wiper blades last only 18 mos! Most of the problems are just annoying, but the crankshaft sensor problem is way too frequent...should have been a recall. Also, seat belt retraction springs are going bad. The build quality on the new models looks worse, so it will be a Honda, Nissan, or Toyota next time. I also have an 18 year old Infiniti with 70,000 miles, and have had less than one- fourth the problems! Update 8-22-16: Valve lifter (tappet) now ticks if the car sits more than a day or two without being driven. Not burning any appreciable amount of oil. Gas mileage down to 15 mpg using the E10 fuel now sold here (was 16 mpg with 0-5% ethanol). Have had to replace another failed electrical part, the A/C & heat temperature door actuator. Got the Kia brand part on the internet for about $70, replaced myself so no labor cost. Still driving the vehicle because it is much more comfortable to sit in (excellent leg room) than most others, and property tax is very low. Overall impression of an average quality SUV remains the same.

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  Great vehicle for low price - 2009 Kia Sorento
  By schun - June 28 - 11:46 pm

  I bought this SUV to haul stuff that wont fit in my Accord. Love the roomy back seats that my 62" son-in-law can fit it comfortably. The back seats can fold down flat so I can put a large flat screen TV in the back. Great that Im seating high so I can spot pot holes before I hit them. The 10-speaker MP3/CD player sounds great(although I cant spot where all of them are). Its a fun vehicle to drive, plenty of zip when I want it. The cruise control on/off switch on steering took a little while to figure out, but work great for longer rides.

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  Base Model Bargain - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By Gizzron - June 22 - 1:16 am

  I printed out a coupon for 25 dollar gift card if you test drove a new Sorento. I drove one and bought it on the spot. With the owner loyalty and cash back rebates, along with another 2 grand off from the dealer, I walked out of the door for 18,500. That price included sales tax, plates, doc fees, and accessory floor mats.

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  What the Heck???? - 2016 Kia Sorento
  By Lea Beghtol - June 19 - 6:44 pm

  Love my 2016 KIA Sorento but, a tree branch went through our windshield our first winter storm. It has been almost 7 weeks now and our body shop has been unable to get parts. We have also been told that our local dealer does not have the proper equipment to test the electronics on the 2016 models! We havent even had our first oil change!

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  Happy - 2016 Kia Sorento
  By JENNIFER CANNON - June 18 - 6:05 am

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  pleasantly surprised. - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By lhasadaddy - June 16 - 7:53 pm

  This Sorrento was a replacement for my previous vehicle. It was used and abused. Previous owner did no maintenance on it. Spent a couple of hours under the hood cleaning MAF sensor, throttle body. Had my buddy replace the oil and all the tires. Not to mention complete brake fluid change( no charge for any of it. For which I am eternally grateful) it now runs like a champ. Roomy , comfortable, fun, and a pleasure to drive. Still needs to have a few little things done. The fact it ran as good as it did considering what wasnt done in it 255,000 miles of service is testament to its build quality. Called KIA about recalls. Booked in same day.

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  Sorento ex - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By Linda - June 15 - 10:20 pm

  I really love this car. I was very hesitant to even consider a foreign made auto, but I was stopped next to a sorento Ex at a red light and couldnt take my eyes off. So I immediatly rushed to the nearest dealer to test drive. It is very smooth to drive, and exceptionally roomy. The exterior is aero dynamically designed. I purchased the 2-tone ex model. It is just amazing how many options are standard equipment. Kia has done a superb job. The gas mileage could be better, but it is a small price to pay when safety is involved. Wheel base is short,makes for a slight uncomfortable bump over speed bumps, etc, but overall, this is a fabulous car. All I need now are arm rests

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  Kia review - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By joseph d. proctor - June 15 - 5:23 am

  I chose this vehicle for the following reasons: 1. The price 2. It doesnt have a whole lot of road noise 3. It has a standard V-6 engine. 4. It has a great standard warranty. 5. And most importantly my wife liked the way it looked.

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  Perfect Car - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By miket02130 - June 14 - 3:53 am

  My car now has 87,000 miles and I cannot say enough about how WELL this works. The only things with KIA is do not let the tank go below 1/4 in the cold of winter. The line will freeze.

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  Liked it so much I bought another - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By onephatgrl - June 7 - 8:26 pm

  Very well designed and laid out. Build quality is very nice and not cheap looking. Have an Ex and LX both 4WD wich perform well in the snow. Ride is smooth but sometimes choppy at low speds otherwise a good alternative to honda crv and the ever so ugly rav 4