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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  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.

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  Unhappy - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By firerep1 - April 27 - 12:46 am

  Driving is great, purchased because of the factory warranty. When engine failed Kia failed to honor the warranty.

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  Fun SUV - 2007 Kia Sorento
  By 01traildriver - April 25 - 9:39 am

  I have driven my Sorento for 80,000 miles and the only things that have been repaired or replaced are the brake rotors and a wheel bearing. The power of the engine is sweet, and I average 18mpg in the city and 21-24 on the highway. The ride is smooth and the vehicle feels very solid. I chose it because of its off-road ability also. I have driven it on numerous 4wd trails and forest service roads with no problems. I just wish that there were more off-road modifications available for them.

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  i love my sorento - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By amber rose - April 23 - 10:53 pm

  I have not had my suv very long, but so far I LOVE IT! I get so many compliments on it, how well it handles, looks etc.. For the money it is a really GREAT buy! I would reccomend Kia to anyone!

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  Chose it over a Honda CR-V - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By Rupert - April 23 - 11:23 am

  Traded my 2008 Honda S2000 for KIA Ex V6 with Navigation, leather and sunroof. We also own a 2007 KIA V6 Sportage. In 2.5 years this car has never had maintenance issues. The 2011 Kia Sorento drives REALLY good, nice pep, corners well, and a really good sound system. The Navigation works well, better then the portable ones. The blue-tooth I dont know how I have lived without it. 3rd row seats I can do without. Nice leather on the seats but the quality of the plastics on the Interior could get better but is better then the CR_V. Dont know much about the gas mileage yet, I have only put 120 miles on it. My only complaints is that it tends to turn when the road is not level.

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  Just 2 weeks - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By June Sheehan - April 23 - 10:00 am

  I went in to decide between a Kia Sorento and the Hyundai Santa FE. I had owned each one so I assumed it would not be hard. Recently owning a C-class Benz an suffering from premium gas and mileage. I had wanted to see what Kia had to offer on the 2011 Sorento and was immediately sold after test drive. The gas and the design in and out satisfied my need. It has been two weeks and heads are still turning. I have never had a 4 cyl and was surprised at the pick up. I am on the highway everyday averaging 55 miles round trip and DC has the worst roads. Will keep consumers updated. So far I am very pleased.

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  Hot wheels for a 77 yr. old man---!!! - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By Robert Conner - April 22 - 7:00 pm

  My wife and I just love the SUV. Would not be without the all wheel drive. Ive driven a lot of vehicles and this is my first foreign one and we just love it. Its better than my daughters Lexus, at a lot less money. I bought it with every listed option, including trailer hitch and autoload leveling,leather,moon roof, 6 cd player etc. for less than 26k new. Wish gas mileage was better, but I get about 15mpg around town and 18mpg+ on trips to Vt. and the Cape. I always was a llwheel drive van man,but we had 2 vehicles then. Now down to one the Sorento fills both my wifes and my needs with plenty of hauling and towing capacity. This SUV is a eye turner.Will buy again.

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  Sorento, trade your old Sportage in . - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By HD Harris - April 20 - 5:26 pm

  It has been an excellent upgrade from my 1998 Sportage. It has adequate room for five. It has been excellent for my two young boys. The 3.5l v6 has plenty of power and the with the auto-stick option, it can be definitely fun going stoplight to stoplight. The styling is more upscale than you would expect from Kia. I feel its more along the lines of the ML series or Lexus and Acura. I always have people asking me about it and complimenting it.

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  Sorento - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By Cornelia - April 19 - 2:00 am

  I drive my Kia to and from work. I drive about 100 miles per day. I like the fuel economy in the Kia. It consumes less gas than most SUVs. The engine is not as quiet as my Ford Taurus was (not that it is overtly noisy). The ride is smoother than riding in a car. I like the Sorentos design and overall performance. The nexr vehicle I purchase will be a Kia.

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  csm sorento lx 2004 - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By junioreinstein - April 19 - 2:00 am

  we find it to be a very stable and solid vehicle. when compared to other suvs it far superior for the price. after buying the vehicle we discovered unique consumer friendly conveinces and overall engineering quality. great car!!!!!!!!!