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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  Best kept secret in value and style. - 2007 Kia Sorento
  By JAMES - February 23 - 9:20 am

  I never tire of driving this suv. Its power and smooth ride make it fun every trip out. My wife and I cant get over the features of this vehicle for the price we paid! It is truly the best purchase we have ever made on a new vehicle.

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  I LOVE MY SORENTO - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By Mike Powell - February 22 - 6:40 am

  I love my Sorento.Many people mistake it for a Lexus.The only complaint that I have is the position of the parking brake mechanism.It hits just above the knee.The only problem that I have had is the clock doesnt keep time,however that will be taken care of at my first oil change(not a major problem).Overall I am completely satisfied and would recommend this vehicle to anyone looking for a new SUV.

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  Cant believe I bought a Kia - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By Domestic Engineer - February 16 - 2:00 am

  My hubby is 62" and Im 5. This is to be my vehicle but we needed something my hubby could drive comfortably and also have leg room in the back seat. We were so surprised by the roominess in the cabin. The drive is great and the price was fantastic. Love the exterior also. It drives really smoothly and has plenty of power for both of us. After we purchased it my mocho husband said "I cant believe I bought a Kia". We thought it would be cheaply designed but were very pleasantly surprised by the ammenities included. Sales experience was also great.

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  I love it! - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By Sargento Sorento - February 16 - 2:00 am

  I love this truck! It is a true truck employing rear-wheel drive with on- demand 4WD. It is much more capable than a Honda CR-V or Toyota RAV4.

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  Sorento Shocker? - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By nickelhorse221 - February 15 - 2:53 am

  Well love the styling. cant beat all the options for the price. But could there be a downfall to all this value? Ive had my sorento just over 2 weeks. I have rattles and all kinds of noises for one. Now, my transmission is acting up. Has 1000 miles on it. Put it in drive and it acts like it doesnt want to go forward, then JUMPS forward and goes. Floor mats are completely falling apart for no reason, and the ride is very stiff. NOT what I expect from a 30,000.00 SUV.. I thought Kia came a long way, but man, I wish i would have bought something else. Never Never Never will I buy a Kia again. Im sticking to VWs from here on out!

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  Fun Car to Drive and Easy to Maintain. - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By mikesay22 - February 11 - 1:02 pm

  I bought this car as a third owner in 2011 with 138000 miles. The car was poorly maintained. Thats what I got for the price I bought it for. But I am so glad I bought this car. I had to change the brakes and tires, some bulbs, oil change, and I had to change the spark plugs. The car started running like new. I had no major problems with the car, just maintenance. I had my check engine light on for a couple of months but later on I found out it was because of a faulty throttle position sensor which was easy to change. After that, the check engine light went away till this day. I had a A/C leak but I managed to find the leak and fixed it myself.

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  Going to buy another one, new 2008? - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By Charles - February 10 - 7:43 am

  We are presently considering buying another Sorento. A new 2008. There is nothing wrong with our 2004 that we bought new. It has been a trouble free vehicle. It has far exceeded our expectations compared to many other SUVs we have owned. It is my wifes vehicle. Biggest problem I have trying to convince her to get a new one is that she is in love with this one. Every time Kia sends me the big discount offer and owner loyalty offer, and I start talking to her about getting a new one, she tears up. "But I like this one!"

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  ABOUT TIME - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By BOBERTSSORENTO - February 10 - 2:00 am

  WOW IT WAS A LONG WAIT, BUT FINALLY A WELL MADE VEHICLE AND A LONG WARRANTY, AND A GREAT PRICE.... AND THE DEALERSHIP WAS SUPER GREAT, ESPECIALLY AFTER THE SALE... THANKS KIA AND PHIL LONG KIA OF CHAPEL HILLSSSSS

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  The V-6 is the way to go - 2012 Kia Sorento
  By andrewm1 - February 9 - 10:07 pm

  I actually bought a 2011 4 cylinder Kia Sorento back in March 2011.The engine was to slugglish and was somewhat dissapointing.I traded it in a bought a 2012 6 cylinder this past December and am much happier now.The V6 276 horses are fantastic and it does not strain the engine.The ride is quiet and smooth.Absolutely NO body lean in sharper turns,unlike the old school SUVs from the 1990s where every turn felt like a potential rollover.Leg and headroom are great.Climate control is superb.Gas mileage takes a hit from the AWD but on the highway,I still get over 20 MPG,less in city driving.(NYC is tough on MPG for all cars period)

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  Disappointed with Vehicle & Kia Service - 2007 Kia Sorento
  By SCLI - February 9 - 6:40 pm

  Purchase W/ 16,300 miles & Kia 2nd owner warranty. (60,000 mis) Within weeks the Sorento begins to hesitate & lose power while maintaining 70 mph on the interstate. Later while night driving I the headlights Dim & nearly going out, plus ALL the Idiot lights on the dash come on. Car nearly stalls. Problems were intermittent at 1st but became common in coming months. I took the SUV to the local Kia dealership where they examined it for 4 days. They told me the Lights Dimming was normal and to downshift with the Semi Manual shifter when the car hesitates. If dash boards lighting up, headlights going out and losing power is normal for a 07 Kia Sorento, with low miles then I want no part of it.