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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  Yes, buy a Kia - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By BretAndStaci - December 30 - 5:56 am

  We really enjoy our new Kia Sorento. It is very comfortable, lots of room, drives great. We needed to have the digital clock fixed within a week other then that no problems as of yet. For the money, you get what you pay for and more with the Kia Sorento.

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  I Love this S.U.V. - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By rcirig - December 30 - 2:00 am

  Very happy with the Sorento and would recomend to everyone!!Great options for a great value.

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  My First SUV - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By ktoken - December 30 - 2:00 am

  I just bought my Sorento EX a couple of days ago but I am already very familar with the vehicle. It is very "user friendly". This is my first SUV so I am rather enjoying the view from up high. I went from a car with 260 hp to my Kia and I dont really miss the power. The Kias engine is very responsive. It rides like a good sturdy car. You dont get beat to death going over bumps, etc. The turning radius is excellent. Very easy to turn, park, etc.

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  I love it! - 2007 Kia Sorento
  By lovemykia - December 29 - 10:30 am

  My husband and I just recently purchased our 2007 Kia Sorento and we love it. The ride is smooth and you cant beat all that vehicle for a great low price. The warranty that Kia provides also gives us peace of mind should anything happen. I highly recommend this vehicle to anyone looking for a great mid-sized SUV!

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  Great value, overacheving car - 2012 Kia Sorento
  By pmfarmer - December 23 - 4:30 pm

  Purchased a 2012 Kia Sorento. I couldn’t be happier with the purchase. I currently have 8,000 miles on it. Drives great in any weather, has all the extras(heated seats, auto dimming mirror, back up camera) without paying the luxury car prices. Don’t waste your time with the 4-cylinder. I have the v6 AWD, it has excellent power when you need it, even when weighed down with luggage ect, for a week long trip for 4 adults. I have expierienced 23-24 mpg for the city and 25-26 mpg on the highway. Our times at the kia service center for oil changes has been great. I’ve had great luck with asian vehicles and the 2012 kia sorento has only set my standards higher.

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  A Kia??? - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By rocketpop - December 19 - 10:00 am

  I traded my BMW for a Kia! WHAT? Thats right a Kia. It still hard for me to say but I am very impressed with the Sorento. When my wife first said "Kia", I said NO WAY! but after the test drive I was sold. Just try to find another fully loaded mid-size SUV for what you will pay for you Sorento. If you have any doubts about buying a Kia, just test drive the Sorento. We bought a EX 4x2 loaded! for less then $25k We havent had it very long but so far so good, We love it! You cant beat 10/100000 warranty.

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  review - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By misty g - December 19 - 10:00 am

  Are overall experience has been awesome. We are first time buyers and are satisfied with are final choice in vehicle.

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  KIA not ready for prime time - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By Rickj - December 14 - 12:03 pm

  While we DO like our Sorento, we have had nothing but bad luck with the Kia dealership. Every time something goes wrong it has to be ordered from Korea! They didnt even have brake pads at the dealership and had to check at Kragen. The following things have failed already: Front differential leaked, CD player, front struts, cruise control. Rear springs are shot, but they claim vehicle abuse and wont replace. We have only had the truck out to desert for very light off-roading once, but we do have a 270 foot rough dirt driveway. (The 3 Series BMW seems to be able to handle it though). The truck is a nice for grocery shopping, but suspension not suitable for real 4X4 activity.

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  Fun little SUV - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By Lori - December 13 - 4:30 pm

  This is a fun SUV to drive. It turns tightly and maneuvers easily. Gas mileage is ok but much better than the Suburban I used to drive. The seats are comfortable and roomy as well as lots of head room. The Sorento has a quick acceleration and does well in the mountains. At times it rides like a truck when you go over bumps. The interior is noisy. Overall, I could not have gotten a better quality SUV with all the bells and whistles at such a reasonable price.

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  i saved thousands and got what i want! - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By EricB - December 13 - 10:00 am

  I never expected to purchase a Kia but I am very glad I have. The dealer was very informative, showed me the benefits and instead of talking down the competition, showed me the value of owning a Kia. The Sorento is great, much less than the Grand Cherokee I owned before and has more features and I saved almost $10,000. Ill most likely be trading my Lexus GS300 on the new sedan that Kia is coming out with...