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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  New 2017 Sorrento - 2017 Kia Sorento
  By Heather Winslow - August 25 - 9:38 am

  Third row carpet seam is easily visible and staples show even around the carpet mat. 2nd row would be better with captain chairs. There is not a lot of space to get into the back row seats.

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  Gas Mileage - 2012 Kia Sorento
  By chupacabra1 - August 23 - 12:22 pm

  Got my Sorento 4 cyl GDI eng 4 months ago and I have around 3800 miles on it. I purchase the vehicle for fuel effeciency. Well after driving almost 4000 miles I can see that what Kia advertise is not really true.. most of my driving is on highway I keep the speed from 65 to 70 on flat road and the best I can get is 24 to 25 MPG on the hwy... First time trusting KIA and last... Im going back to Totoya after I drive this vehicle for another 12 months. I went to the dealer and I was told that "I will get this kind of miliage after the engine get some more additional miles".... What 30,000 miles????

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  Really Enjoying it - 2012 Kia Sorento
  By carconnoisseur - August 18 - 3:57 pm

  We have now had our 2012 Sorento for 2 months/3800mi and we are loving it. We sold our CRV and upgraded to the Kia. The Kia seems much better made and the interior is vastly more comfortable. Most notable is the interior is much quieter. The MPG for us has been very good, with mostly highway I calculated 31.5 mpg, almost exactly what it should be. Also over the CRV you get a direct injection engine and a six-speed transmission. And do not forget the Stellar Warranty!

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  Surprised!! - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By NowaKiaman - August 18 - 2:00 am

  We test drove several different SUVs and honestly were not giving KIA any thought. My wife saw the KIA SUV on the road when we were test driving the MDX. She wanted to drive it. I of course was hesitant, but allowed (quite honestly just to amuse her). Imagine our, especialy my, surprise when the salesman started talking about the SUV. The smooth ride floored me. I did not know what to say, or do; the best SUV I had driven was a KIA? Though it did not have all the pleasantries of life (ie automatic windshield wipers)we decided to buy the Sorento, and still very much love the SUV. Highly recommended to any one in the mid-size SUV market.

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  Awesome value! - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By airtexaco - August 17 - 10:49 pm

  I was attracted to this vehicle by the front end, it reminds me of a European CUV. The drivers area is well laid out and it comes with a ton of standard features. I really enjoy the Sirius radio. Mine is the V6 and if anything, it is over powered for its size =) It is not blazing fast, it just has a high power to weight ratio.

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  My 1st SUV - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By Jill - August 17 - 4:33 pm

  I would highly recommend a Sorento to anyone looking for a "smallish SUV." After driving a 2-door sports car for 9 years, the jump to an SUV was a dramatic change for me, but I couldnt be happier! The Sorento is such a smooth ride, and the base model has all of the bells & whistles I could possibly need. Just took it on its 1st road trip (600 miles), and it handled beautifully. Around town I average 26- 27 mpg, and easily get 30-31 mpg on the interstate. The mpg sweet spot seems to be between 55-60 mph, and on my road trip I actually bumped the mpg average all the way up to 38.3 mpg at one point!! Obviously fuel economy was the selling point for me, and I honestly couldnt be more satisfied.

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  Excellent Buy & Very Pleasant SUV!! - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By kandeemann2001 - August 16 - 7:05 am

  I purchased used in Dec 10 w/ 50,000 miles. 2 months and 5,000 miles later, not a single problem and absolutely a pleasure to drive! I upgraded from an 00 Sportage, so Im LOVING all the extra space, extra comfort and extra POWER from the Sorento. Seats are unquestionably the most comfortable ive ever sat in, power is MORE than enough than ill probably ever need, and theres a ton of space, both for passengers and cargo. I park next to plenty of the newer mid-sizers at work (Highlanders, Pilots, XC90s, etc.) and it looks just as stylish. Mine is white with the beige interior and gold cladding - VERY NICE! Steering is light and easy to handle. Super comfy ride to work and school everyday.

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  2011 Sorento 6 cyl AWD - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By Tim - August 13 - 6:40 pm

  I had this car for about a month now and have been very satisfied so far. It is fully loaded with Nav, premium sound, leather seats, sun roof, etc. I would have paid easily another $2-3K with any other competitor. Anyone who is picky about road and engine noise should stick to 6 cyl with this model. I test drove 4 cyl models, there was a BIG difference. It is worth paying the additional $1500-$2000. After driving an 02 Ford Explorer, this vehicle feels like a luxury car made from high quality materials. I liked the fact the KIA offers standard 10yr/100K mile warranty. I would have paid easily another $1500 with the competition for the extended warranty.

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  Grandma Mobile - 2016 Kia Sorento
  By S Johnson - August 9 - 5:29 pm

  The Kia Sorento SUV, V6, is my kind of car. It is what I traded in to get another one. It has get up and go when you need it. It handles well and has amazing safety features. I really love the blind spot sensors. The car rides well and is very comfortable. It will hold all 5 of my grandkids with plenty of room for their stuff. Cowboy Kia in Conroe, Texas, has a wonderful Customer Service Department. They listened to me and helped me find the car I wanted. It took awhile to find light colored interior, but I got it. I look forward to having this car for a long time and getting my moneys worth out of it for sure. I test drove both the V6 and Turbo. The V6 had the power I wanted and thats what I got. I am very excited about my new car!

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  New Ride - 2016 Kia Sorento
  By Harry Callier - August 6 - 4:57 pm

  If considering the premium package, definitely consider the touring package. You get a much better screen (Nav/multimedia) and the glass roof (panoramic sunroof) is unbelievable. In our case the cost difference was only $44 / month payment wise. So, we got the touring and have not regretted the purchase.