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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  Buyer beware - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By Jeremy B - April 16 - 2:00 am

  Ok..I got rid of a 03 Kia Sedona that was literaly falling apart as we drove down the road. We decided to buy a middle of the road 11 Kia Sorento since the price was 10k less than comparable SUV. SO, biting the bullet and thinking that KIA, after years of bad press and horrible customer satisfaction would IMPROVE quality when they built 11 Sorento in GA., we were shot point blank. Car has driven 250 miles and the car needs back rotors replaced, front realignment due to a hard right pull and an alternator recall service, this is after two recalls. To top it off, the airbag module box on the front passenger dash creates an outline through the dash covering. Warranty may fix but this is bad!

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  AMADOGON - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By AMADO V GONZALES - April 14 - 12:43 pm

  Bought this 2004 Sorento EX 4WD in 12/2004 with 19 miles on the odometer. Tested vehicles 4WD performance during the snow blizzard of Jan. 2005 here in Suffolk County (Long Island New York). Did the stop and go run about 15-20 mph on 10 inches snow on the road, went through like a bulldozer, no skidding, zigzagging (SUV equipped with disc brake/abs systems). I am giving a perfect 10 score for this vehicles performance. Also, tested vehicle performance on the highway; handles excellent.

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  Great vehicle all around - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By Packer fan - April 13 - 2:00 am

  Bought this vehicle after testdriving the Hyundai Sante Fe and Mazda Tribute. This has much more room. Excellent head room and room for 3 adults in back. Handles great.Looks great. Have 4500 miles already on this 2004 LX and have not had a single problem. We have highway mountains to climb and this has plenty of power.

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  Sorento review - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By Ricardo - April 12 - 10:10 am

  This car has outperformed any car I have had in the past including Hondas, GM, Ford, Chrysler, etc. Most comfortable car I have ever owned, also the power is unreal. Its got to have more than the 200 horses advertised. No problems with anything ...dealer is less than desirable though.

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  Disappointed - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By Disappointed - April 10 - 6:23 pm

  Its been 3 months since my unfortunate purchase. Vehicle shimmies on first morning start up. Burning smell in cabin -interior lighting shuts off by itself -Electrical problems in general. Bad customer service. I thought $45,000 would go further than 5000km. I guess not by Kia standards. Service manager said the shimmy on morning start up was "the natural characteristics of the vehicle" Like that was going to make me feel better. I havent even mansion the loud undercarriage noise when you hit small bumps. In short, I took my chance with Kia and lost miserably

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  Not bad - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By derf - April 10 - 2:03 pm

  I like the interior space, the handling and the filtered cabin air. We just did our first trip with the KIA sorento 4 cylinder FWD automatic. It is rough riding compared to our Chrysler town and country. I am really disappointed with the gas mileage. It claims to get 29 mpg (4 cylinder FWD) but I only averaged 25mpg on our trip. I used cruise control and was on 4 lane highways all the way (508 miles). With All my other cars I got 2 or 3 mpg more than the window sticker. Perhaps the EPA estimates have been "readjusted".

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  V6 verses 4cyl AWD - 2012 Kia Sorento
  By trippingman - April 3 - 8:20 pm

  We previously owned a 2011 Sorrento EX V6 AWD. I thought moving to the 2012 EX AWD with a 4 cylinder would help with gas mileage. However, it didnt turn out that way. While we did get some improvement (apprx. 3mpg for both city and highway) it was not significant enough to give up the 6 cylinder. Fortunately for us we got such a good trade in value on the previous Kia, that we actually lowered our payment. The cars were both EX AWD models. The 2011 had a sunroof but no navigation system or premium sound. The 2012 does not have a sunroof but does have the premium sound and navigation system. Overall, we prefer the 2012. We think it rides smoother with a less jarring ride over road bumps.

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  Love my Sorento - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By conazza - April 2 - 6:13 am

  Great SUV with lots of comfort and room. Got it for a low 19,000! Took it on a 400 mile trip and was thrilled to average 29.2 miles per gallon. Im getting about 25.5 in the city so Im very happy. I wanted a comfortable car for family trips that would get good gas mileage and Ive found it! I have the 4 cylinder and am fine with the amount of power it has.

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  Great SUV, HORRIBLE Gas Mileage!!! - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By jc3656 - March 28 - 10:00 am

  This is the perfect mid-sized SUV, with one exception...12MPG gas mileage. how can a Koren vehicle have every ammenity under the sun and still not be created with fuel efficiency in mind? I chose the beige colored EX model LOADED with everything except towing package. I traded in a 2002 loaded Suzuki XL-7 for this vehicle and was like going from a Yugo to Lexus. Not even close (in my eyes) as far as quality of interior and "feel". Again, great all around SUV...HORRIBLE MPG!

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  Liberated from a "Liberty" - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By Nancy Lavely - March 28 - 10:00 am

  After driving a Jeep Liberty for two years that I truly hated , I purchased a Kia Sorento that I now am extremely happy with. When my husband and I test drove it, we were like, "What is this? A joke?" All the features did not compute with the low price.