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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  from toyota to kia - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By carl & mary - October 19 - 2:00 am

  We needed a larger 4x4 than our 2003 toyota RAV4. WE looked at every larger model including Ford, Chevy., Dodge and Toyota. After driving all of the others we settled for the Kia. It drives very well and is most comfortable. The features for the price makes it a very good buy. We have two friends that already own the Sorento, and they are very happy with theirs.

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  MANY SUVS - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By R FARRELL - October 19 - 2:00 am

  I HAVE OWNED ALMOST EVERY SUV AND FOUND THAT FOR THE DOLLAR AGAINST THE RETURN IT WILL BE HARD TO BEAT THIS VEHICLE. EXCELLENT WARRANTY. COMPARED AGAINST 3 OTHER SUVS BEFORE I BOUGHT.

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  KIA = GARBAGE - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By efw904 - October 12 - 10:43 am

  This vehicle has had more issues than I know what to do with. Mostly electrical problems. It has been to the dealer for A/C issues 3 times. Eventually having the entire dashboard ripped out and a new harness put in. I have to buy headlights and taillights all the time. So bad that I keep a spare set in the car at all times. It experiences loss of power all the time and the transmission does not engage when in reverse sometimes. The car has had all maintenance done on or before its due. Factory radio also died right after buying it. Service departments are are the worst. Above all the resale value is absolutely horrible. If you buy one, enjoy it b/c you will be stuck with it. Absolute garbage

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  In love! - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By JSTARK - October 12 - 5:43 am

  My husband & I are madly in love w/ this vehicle! We looked for 6 mths before we were ready to purchase & it was between the sorento, equinox & hyundi tuscon(santa fe is actually same sz as sorento but starting price much higher)The standard features w/ the sorento are bar none. And safty features sold me. I was really worried about going from a v6 to a 4, but it wasnt as big a change as i thought it would be. a couple minor negatives: mp3 transmitter is almost worthless, (it worked fine in my escape), Bluetooth chic rarely understands call- name requests, & we are pretty disappointed in the gas milage, which is entire reason we downgraded to a 4 cylinder.

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  What A Buy and Great Car!! - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By Tom - October 8 - 7:06 pm

  We just purchased out Kia Sorento and WOW!, do you we love it. We traded in our 2002 Honda Accord EX and dont miss it at all. The ride to us is equal to the Honda and no rattles, etc. yet to be heard. Great warranty and we hope to keep this one a few years.

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  Excellent Investment - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By TRULYDOROTHY - October 5 - 1:23 pm

  Great performance. Reasonable gas mileage. A lot of vehicle for the money. Good secure feeling brakes. Hugs curves well. Excellently designed with passengers in mind.

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  I would never buy another new car... - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By TParker602 - October 4 - 7:06 pm

  I work around some of the most exotic automobiles in the industry, and I can honestly say I get excited every time I climb in my 06 Kia Sorento. With a value package which includes more standard features than any of the competition, quality ratings handed down from Kias parent company - up and coming Hyundai, an unheard of 60K mile bumper-to-bumper warranty, industry leading 100K mile powertrain warranty, unique styling dubbing the Sorento as the "baby Lexus RX 300", and a price that will turn your head ... buyers remorse is a thing of the past. I love the fact that you dont see too many Sorentos on the road. Everyone keeps asking me what it is, or thinks Im driving an exotic!

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  Nearly Perfect!! Great SUV witha few minor flaws. - 2016 Kia Sorento
  By b.urban@outlook.com - October 4 - 12:36 am

  The value the Sorento offers is amazing. You really get a lot for the money when buying. However the biggest problem with KIA is the resale. We bought ours one year old with 20 thousand miles on it. It already took the big deprecation hit. A new highlander or pilot will be much better if you buy new and plan on selling in a few years. They also cost more out of the box. We have no intention on selling so resale isnt a big concern to us. First Ill start with the engine. It is plenty powerful. We live in the south so we got the front wheel drive model. It really is overpowered for the front wheels. If it kicks down a few gears it will torque steer. Fuel mileage has been as expected. We average 23mpg between a mix of city and highway. One of my biggest gripes are the brakes. When I am doing a lot of city driving the brakes do start to fade in stop and go situations. I can noticeably feel the pedal travel get further. Kia should have gave it a little bigger brakes from the factory. The other gripe I have it the seat material. Ours has cloth seats and the material just isnt great. I do not believe it will hold up great over the next 5 or so years. Time will tell. Other than those gripes which are minor to me the Sorento is a great SUV. I tow a trailer which weighs about 2500 pounds and it takes it just fine. It is comfortable and easy to drive for extended periods. The third row is usable. The highlander and pilot had more third row room but the Sorentos third row is fine and usable for children or small adults. Im 58 and I can sit back there fine. Anything over 510 or so is going to run out of head room. With the third row up there is very little room for storage. Overall I am very happy and my wife and I love it. Very glad we chose the Sorento.

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  Me in a KIA? - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By Rob C - September 30 - 10:00 am

  After having several SUVs in the past, like the Jeep Grand Cherokee, Ford Explorer, and Suburu Forester, I thought it was unlikely that I would have a Kia Sorento. The impressive styling led me to the test drive... GOOD LOOKS, FEATURES, FUN TO DRIVE AND VALUE! Needless to say, it is parked in my driveway.

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  Luxury w/out payment - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By Luxury w/out payment - September 28 - 2:56 pm

  Why pay for a luxury vehicle when the 2011 Sorento EX provides the same. We love this vehicle. Looked at many SUVs and wanted an Audi Q7 until we drove the Sorento. So its not a luxury vehicle, but paying half the price to get most of the same features...SOLD. Best warranty out there too. Fully loaded with Nav, Bluetooth, leather, satelite radio, IPOD, USB, hands free, voice recognition, keyless start, V6, 3rd row, double moon roofs, roof rack and comfort beyond most vehicles. All for $3K under dealer invoice.