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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  Kia Has Set The Standard - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By donbowler - November 7 - 10:00 am

  Ive only had my Sorento one month, 1200 miles, but I love this vehicle. My wife drives a 2001 Montero Sport fully loaded. I have everything on my Kia she has on her Montero for $6000 less. Gas mileage is my only complaint; but, I knew this going in. I figured if it cost me $500 a year more to drive the vehicle I wanted, I could live with that. Pus, look at what Ive saved on price!

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  fun with the kia - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By wendy - November 6 - 6:03 pm

  the kia is very fun to drive; very stylish, alot of compliments on how nice an suv it is. when i tell them the price they it looks a lot more expensive. very nice for the price.

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  EXCELLENT - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By HHEIKEINCOLO - October 31 - 10:00 am

  WE TRULY THINK FOR THE $$$--OUR SORENTO IS AN EXCELLENT BUY! VERY GOOD LOOKING SUV BUILT ON A TRUCK FRAME. 4WHEEL-HI & LO--4WHEEL-16INCH ALLOY RIMS--245 70R16 TIRES. STANDARD SUN ROOF, HEAVY DUTY EXTENTION. QUIET RIDE, OURS IS FULLY LOADED. WE THINK OUR SORENTO LOOKS BETTER THEN THE LEXUS, ACURA & BMW SUV, WHICH COSTS 10K TO 20K MORE!! WE ARE VERY HAPPY WITH OUR SUV, IT HAS FRONT AND SIDE AIR BAGS. OUR CAR INSURANCE WENT DOWN AS IT HAS MANY SAFETY FEATURES. THANKS KIA!!!!

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  2004 Sorento - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By Corky1 - October 31 - 10:00 am

  Looked at others. Lots of features for the price.

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  Very Decent But - 2006 Kia Sorento
  By michelej898 - October 31 - 3:10 am

  I have had this vehicle 11 months. I bought it with 37,000 and only have 41,000 on it now. I drive mostly small town, light traffic but lots of lights. Speed limits of 30-35 mph. Gas mileage is about 15.5. I am also having problems with headlights, brake lights, etc. Have replaced both headlights, a marker light, and one brake light twice. Luckily hubby is a mechanic but there must be something going on if lights keep burning out. On the other hand, lights are easily changed and cheap! But still.

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  POOREST MPG - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By POOREST MPG - October 29 - 5:26 pm

  I regret trading in our 02 Venture van that averaged 22 city. This vehicle is only getting an awful 16. My 5.3l V8 Silverado gets that! I was told it would get better after 1000 miles of break in, but that was a big fat lie! Now the turn signals will not cancel after turning. After 2 months still havent received paperwork for title and registration, Hyundai motor credit lost it! Cant wait to get rid of this one. Ive never said that about any car before.

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  Solid car for the money - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By floucka - October 29 - 10:00 am

  We purchased our Sorento new and have since put 110,000+ miles on it. It has held up well. Overall it has been very reliable and a good car to drive. We chose it based primarily on its styling as at the time it did not look like other SUVs. It still stands out in a sea of sameness. Fuel economy is not great but I consistently average 20 mpg per fill up. I have experience some of the electrical gremlins shared by others including multiple head light changes. I had to replace a diode to get the interior light to go on in the "Door" position. The A/C died recently.

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  I just love my new Sorento! - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By LoveMySorento - October 27 - 2:50 pm

  Ive had the 2011 Sorento for about a month, and I absolutely love it. Its great looking, fun to drive, and everything we were looking for. I also really like the keyless feature. I never have to waste time looking for lost keys. I just leave the key in my purse (luckily, I never lose my purse). If you dont know how this works, you just need your key remote in your pocket or purse and it detects when you are about a foot away from your car so you can unlock and lock your car without having to pull it out. Also convenient when returning to the car with grocery bags - no fumbling with keys - just press the button and open the car. :)

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  Kia Problem - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By LazerJ - October 19 - 2:00 am

  Bought the KIA Sorento two weeks ago. Have less than 700 miles on it. It is in service to have the whole rear axle, differential and housing replaced. The rear differential was half full of old fluid and metal fragments. This produced a h*ll of a vibration. The axle housing is going to KIA for analysis. No problems with the dealer. They have been very nice, but problems definitely with the vehicle. Hope this is not a prediction of things to come.

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  Great SUV - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By MEGOTONE - October 19 - 2:00 am

  Great looks, value and SUV for money. Must be the best in the market. Compares to SUVs 10K more yet sturdy and well styled and equiped. VERY QUIT AND COMFORTABLE. WATCH OUT EVERYONE!