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:
Showing 1081 through 1090 of 1,822.00-
Best Lil SUV in America - 2007 Kia Sorento
By Delta Don - January 18 - 1:33 amWe test drove the Kia after driving the Highlander, Pilot, Acadia, Outlook, Veracruz and 4Runner. In terms of the features we were looking for, overall performance and value, the Sorento beat the others hands down. My wife especially likes the turning radius which allows her to make a full U-turn on our neighborhood street when she forgets her cell phone in the morning.
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Best of the rest - 2011 Kia Sorento
By Jack - January 17 - 6:40 amWe shopped several SUVs, crossovers and vans. Was a big fan of Toyota. This vehicle has us "converted". I am a big man and I have plenty of room behind the wheel/passenger. We opted for the 4 cyl as this gives us plenty of pep and decent mileage for our driving style. Just roamed the WV mountains and had no lack of power up & down hills. Is a treat to drive esp when compared with our Sienna. Plenty of storage space and room for our dogs to roam. Comfortable! Keep up the good work Kia, we will be back!!
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Sorento Review 2005 - 2005 Kia Sorento
By Skaggs - January 14 - 5:03 pmThis suv is a very good value and the ride is a bit hard, more truck like and the radio is poor and could use an up grade. With the gas price the way it is now, Iwould like to see the next years model get something better than 20-22 mpg
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Sorento - 2005 Kia Sorento
By ric - January 13 - 11:03 pmI am on my 4th Kia and have never been happier with a car, My Sorento is the best SUV I have ever owned. All my friends comment on how little I paid for it and how well it is built and the standard features are the best on the market.
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my kia after 4 months - 2004 Kia Sorento
By bob spath - January 13 - 10:00 ama very good buy for the overall performance and appearance at a very fair price.
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True Confessions - 2004 Kia Sorento
By kiaconvert - January 13 - 10:00 amMy biggest hangup with the Sorento was admittedly the Kia name and presumed poor qulality. However, my first test drive was a shocker...plenty of power, buttery smooth shifting(5 spd)and a very comfortable interior. The looks arent bad either, borrowing lines from the Acura MDX, Lexus and Mercedes. Kia has taken a giant leap from the punky Sportage to the Sorento, and with the newly available sports package, it comes well trimmed and off-road ready. Its priced with the CRV and RAV4 but compares well with the 4Runner and other mid sized SUVs. Dont buy in this category without honestly testing the Kia first.
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Rain, ice, and snow - 2005 Kia Sorento
By fully loaded - January 10 - 2:30 pmMy fully loaded Sorento that I purchased last week was very impressive through a major northeast storm. During a 40 mile commute that lasted 5 hours, I was never uncomfortable. Since I know every road between work and home I left the highway several times to look for a better way, and witnessed people not able to navigate the smallest of inclines, I was tempted to pass the expensive cars known to Greenwhich CT as they fish tailed back and forth but the on coming traffic proved to be a bad idea for passing.The Sorento kept up with every inch with no slipping. Very impressed with handling and comfort.
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heck of a buy - 2003 Kia Sorento
By kert - January 4 - 2:00 amI am extremely pleased and impressed with our sorento ex luxury package. For 10 to 12k less than similiar looking vehicles I can give up the independent suspension. The construction is extremely good. Only problem at time of delievery was a light out in the ash tray. Its a great buy and your must drive it.
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the perfect car - 2004 Kia Sorento
By bubuhu - January 2 - 10:00 amThe kia sorento is a wonderful car to own and drive. It is big enough to haul things in, yet small enough so you do not feel like you are driving a tank. The ride is smooth. It handles excellent. My overall rating is a 10! I drove a lot of other vehicles before choosing the Kia Sorento. I have owned over the years, a volkswagen, 2 chevys, a dodge, a ford, a mazda and 2 other kias. The warranty itself is a plus. I chose the Sorento because I believe it was the best overall value.
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driver - 2004 Kia Sorento
By christinepires - January 2 - 10:00 ami love my kia suv
