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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  HAD NO IDEA WHAT A KIA SORENTO WAS... - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By TJ6363 - March 25 - 2:00 am

  I WENT TO THE DEALERSHIP LOOKING FOR A RODEO, WHEN I FELL IN LOVE WITH THE SORENTO. FOR THE SIZE, STYLE AND PRICE IT IS A GREAT DEAL. I LOVE MY NEW VEHICLE, NOW ALL I NEED TO DO IS KEEP MY HUBBY OUT OF IT. BIG DIFFERENCE FROM MY LITTLE CORROLLA.

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  Kia will NOT fix the problem with our car. - 2008 Kia Sorento
  By bridget_allen - March 24 - 11:09 am

  At first everything was going fine, but then we started having trouble with our transmission. The SUV would stall and get stuck in 3rd gear. I took it to Kia several times and they could not find anything wrong, however, other places machines was showing a problem with the transmission. After several times of taking it to Kia..they finally found the problem and so called fixed it. They did not fix it...it is still doing the same thing and NOW they can not find ANYTHING wrong......

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  My love Affair with Sorento - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By ladyvet - March 20 - 10:53 am

  I love my Sorento. I will never buy any thing else!

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  Amazing ... Love this car - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By calhmmr - March 19 - 10:00 am

  I first saw and drove this car in Seoul Korea as a rental and fell in love with it as well as Korea. It felt like a safe and quality concious place and so did the vehicle. I absolutely love it. They have a really kool grille badge for the Korean Market. I am surprised it did not make it to the US with that badge. Mercedes and BMW watch out for this one...

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  Great SUV - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By Daniel - March 16 - 5:56 am

  I purchased one of these fully loaded and we have loved it! We have 47,000 miles on it now and its been just great. It pulled our two pwcs with no issues and goes everywhere (on or off- road).

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  Sorento - Buy It! - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By Mary Jo Howell - March 14 - 9:30 am

  This is the first SUV weve owned however many friends have owned one for years. The looks are great, ride is nice.Easy driving for teens is a plus. Still getting used to the gas consumption after driving toyotas (Celica & Camry) over the last several years however we are still pleased with 22-24 highway. Its been great thus far for traveling with ball players on the weekends for 1-3 hour trips. We wouldnt go back to taking a car on the weekend trips for anything.

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  Good SUV - 2008 Kia Sorento
  By Joanne - March 10 - 5:43 am

  Bought a sorento last Sept. having this SUV for a year we like it a lot; never owned a kia or SUV before but we are very happy driving it. It rides nice and it is very comfortable.

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  My review - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By jkossoy - March 8 - 2:00 am

  Ive had my Sorento since mid-June 2003, and have gotten anywhere from 16.5 mpg to 20 mpg with no problems after 6500 miles. In fact several people were impressed with the ride. My wife likes it (she hasnt driven it yet, but her only complaint is that its hard for her to get in (shes 52").

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  Sorento sets the new standard !! - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By Scotts Sorento - March 8 - 2:00 am

  I tested a total of 7 different SUVs in the "mid-sized" class, and the Sorento was victorious in ALL categories. It has a good ride, ample room, a very under rated STRONG engine, etc. I was a little leary about the 192 HP in a 4300lb SUV......... BUT, it was the quickest of the 7 I drove ! It even outperformed the Lexus RX300 & the 250HP Acura MDX ! This is a real SUV for a very low price. I have owned it for 4 months, and I am VERY satisfied.

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  Well-built - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By John D - March 5 - 2:00 am

  I was impressed with the way the car handled and the comfortable ride. Also it was very quiet compared to my Ford Escape. Im satisfied with everything about the car so far. Ive had it 5 months and driven 5000 miles. The rear sensors and rear camera are very convenient for people that may have a problem turning to check whats behind them. Very nice vehicle. Has it all over the Escape I had.