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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  Kia2013 Sorento - 2013 Kia Sorento
  By fasteddy201 - November 17 - 6:58 am

  This model with the smaller 4 cy engine is SERIOUSLY UNDERPOWERED. I took my first long trip with it last weekend and it got scary a couple of times. When I needed get up and go it wasnt there. Get the larger 4 cy or a .6 Also it doesnt take the bumps very well..very rough ride on moderately bumpy roads. Im already thinking of getting rid of it and I dont have 3000 miles on it yet.

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  sorento - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By bob43 - November 17 - 2:00 am

  love the sorento. It has alot for the money. would not buy anything else shopped and looked at tahoes and trailblazers, explorers and expeditions no comparison to the ride and drive.

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  BEST RIDE FOR THE DOLLAR - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By Eddie - November 16 - 2:40 am

  Fantastic looks, and quality, purchased mine after rebates for under 20 grand, LX auto with lots of accessories. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a midsize SUB and on a budget. Decent gas mileage; I get 21 on highway drives and about 15.5 in city.

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  Traded my AUDI for this KIA... & NOT LOOKING BACK! - 2016 Kia Sorento
  By Kent Johnson - November 14 - 8:22 pm

  Bought this Sorento 8 months ago, and weve driven it every day around town and taken it on cross-country touring. Were very, very pleased. This is no 1990s Kia. My previous car was an Audi A8L - a very premium car - and Im actually more comfortable in the Sorento. I know these two cars are not really comparable, but for what its worth, the Sorento is a quieter, smoother and more enjoyable vehicle. (OK, so its not as fast, and it doesnt take corners the same; but it does what I need it to do, flawlessly). A non-quantifiable assessment thats perhaps most germane: This car makes me smile. (And not just because it cost half of what I paid for the Audi). It is a really nice piece of machinery. The little engine has ample power for an SUV; and I saw 27 mpg overall in our cross-country trip, including short stop and go forays in several cities. (Around 22 in town; averaging almost 24). The huge panoramic sunroof is fun. The longer we drive it, the more unexpected positives we discover. The active speed control is fantastic; keeps distance from car ahead and slows to a full stop if necessary, then starts again without touching accelerator (unless youre stopped more than 20 seconds). Blind spot warning is flawless. The lane keep assist warning is helpful. Automatic opening hatch has been a real help when carrying groceries, etc. The downloadable apps are useful. The voice recognition actually recognizes words (a lot better than my Audi). The sound system with the tech package is pretty good. Especially down here in Dallas, the cooled front seats are a happy surprise. Obviously, Im not swayed by those who insist on a luxury brand. I deeply appreciate quality, regardless of its author. Give me the genuine experience of excellence over a label any day.

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  Love it too much - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By Lee - November 12 - 3:50 pm

  I have a dilemma.I love my manual transmission Sorento too much and it is aging. I bought it new in Feb 05 and have about 200000km on it. It pulls the 15 boat and loaded double snowmobile trailer.The guys are impressed that I am always right behind them on any trips.I have had a few of the problems others mentioned (coolant bottle leak, head lights burn out, fuel gauge fluctuates, occasionally speedo and cruise cut out) but nothing major.It is manual and as with other manuals I have had 2nd is getting stiff to shift into especially when the engine is not well warmed up.I am considering replacing it due to age/mileage and cant find another manual SUV with all the features I want. Ieeee!

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  2005 KIA Sorento - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By nb25 - November 11 - 3:30 pm

  My vehicle has been in the shop almost 10 times in the last year and a half. Fun vehicle to drive but I am really tired of taking it into the shop for problems. The Kia service center at my dealership is also AWFUL! I left a message last Monday with the service manager in regards to some carpet that he had ordered for me in June (yes I have a nice hole in my carpet in my brand new car!) and I still have not received a return call. Not to mention that I have been waiting almost 4 months for them to replace the carpet.

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  Still happy after a year and a half - 2007 Kia Sorento
  By Mcubed - November 10 - 10:10 am

  I bought my 07 Sorento as a "demo/leftover" in 09 - I have a gut feeling it was originally a lemon- law vehicle (a leftover almost 2 years after model year end?) BUT I now have just shy of 35,000 and its had 2 problems; an o2 sensor failed and a goofy hesitation issue @ 1500 RPM. Just about to do the brakes. Other than the 2 minor (fixed under warranty) issues - GREAT VEHICLE

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  Bad Bad Bad - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By Allison - November 8 - 5:20 pm

  Looks great, love all the options, but would never buy again! Too many major mechanical problems! 40,000 miles I have almost a whole brand new engine. The radio display went, new radio. New power steering rack, new driveshaft. And now the recall of the part that I have already replaced once. The paint is also peeling is some spots!

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  BEST SUV EVER! - 2007 Kia Sorento
  By Ryan W. - November 8 - 4:26 am

  You cant buy any SUV for this price with all of the options and performance it offers! The 4WD system is a "true" off-road system unlike the AWD systems found on the CR-V and Pilot. The engine has tons of power and is perfect for towing my boat. The 4WD has been great for the Michigan winters and great gas mileage for an SUV. I am very impressed with my first Kia and it certainly wont be my last!

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  Satisfaction guaranteed. - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By Stuart - November 7 - 10:00 am

  After a test drive and a very comfortable experience at the dealership we were sold. They even arranged for a test drive of a competitors vehicle for us, pretty gutsy. If we were looking for good gas mileage it would not have been a good pick, but we wanted a safe vehicle for out of town travel in all kinds of weather. The Sorento is a beautiful vehicle to drive, very quiet with large comfortable seats, enough power for my needs so far and works well in bad road conditions. We drove several SUVs and found the Sorento as good as any,it has excellent standard equipment that are options on most other SUVs.