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:

• 

  Love My Kia - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By pnekuda - September 24 - 10:00 am

  We traded from a Forrester to a Kia. I was looking at used thinking I couldnt afford a mid-sized SUV but I was wrong. I love the size and my family of 4 actually have room to move around now.

• 

  orlandospin - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By kiakat - September 19 - 10:00 am

  The Sorento is a great vehichle although the gas mileage could be better. My Sorento started out getting 13.5 mpg at first and now with 2000 miles its up to 17 around town. Great midsize SUV.

• 

  Horrible Mistake - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By Belen - September 17 - 10:00 am

  The worst mistake ever, we decide to give KIA a chance, and now we are full of regret. After only 5 months of having the car, the second row seat broke after pulling it down for the first time, it took 3 visits to the dealership to have it fixed, and now I was left stranded in a gas station at 10:00 pm with 3 small children by myself because the gas door would not open, I tried the "emergency" handle to open it unsuccessfully for 30 mins. By the way the "emergency" handle is a big joke, is just a very thin thread. Dont waste your money!

• 

  heaven - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By bob bowen - September 6 - 2:00 am

  This car (suv) is the best car I ever bought, I love the ride and comfort I am 6-4 230 and have lots of room handles well plenty of power get lots of looks about the style priced great loaded with lots of xtras that are standerd on this car ...I cant say enough about how much i enjoy driving this car.

• 

  KIA - 2006 Kia Sorento
  By Tank32 - September 4 - 7:20 pm

  Very pleased to have purchased this vehicle. Amazed how smooth and quite it is. Its very easy to get the kids in and out of since the door space is large as well as the overall inside space. Makes road trips fun and just plain happy about it.

• 

  KIA Mechanical Problems - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By mcdonald340 - September 4 - 6:09 pm

  2011 KIA Sorento - Transmission Problems/Pulls to the right/Sudden Acceleration/Cruise Control problems. Transmission broke on trip out of state. 6 Weeks to repair. Broke again. Accelerated on its own. Too dangerous to drive. To initiate a recall, file complaint with www.safecar.gov then go to vehicle owners then file a complaint. Stay away from 2011 KIA Sorento.

• 

  Love my Kia - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By MJ04 - September 1 - 10:00 am

  This is a wonderful vehicle! Plenty of room but still easy to park on a busy street. Even my tall family (all over 66") fit comfortably and have plenty of leg and head room. Always get lots of compliments on this car.

• 

  This is a Kia? Really? - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By newzie - August 31 - 5:26 pm

  We wanted a larger SUV (traded an 09 Ford Escape) with AWD. Looked at the Mitsubishi Outlander SE, Suzuki Grand Vitara, Chevy Equinox, and Ford Escape. Feature for dollar the Kia cant be beat. The ride is very good and comfortable. The vehicle is rather roomy and the design is very pleasing with some nice touches. But dont touch that plastic. While it looks expensive with is graining, its harder than a rock!

• 

  Great SUV - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By stockey - August 30 - 10:00 am

  The best SUV for the price.

• 

  Great So Far - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By cablerunner - August 30 - 10:00 am

  Overall great value, it hasnt snowed yet to test the 4WD, but it works well off road. Cant beat the price, warranty, or overall value in this class of SUVs. Get one and enjoy. Kia is going to win alot of people over with the Sorento!