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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  Would not recomend - 2006 Kia Sorento
  By maddogsmama - June 16 - 2:47 am

  I bought a 2006 Kia Sorento LX in 2010 and since then Ive had nothing but problems! I replaced the crank shaft sensor, cam shaft sensor and the AC. With labor and parts that cost me about 1,600. I have only put 20,000mi on it since I bought it! Therefore, I would NOT recommend a Kia to anyone!! My first experience as a Kia owner was nothing but a headache!

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  So far so good - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By tol - June 16 - 2:00 am

  Had the Sorento for almost 4 months. Everything has been great so far. It drives very well, handles well and the interior is very well designed. No complaints or problems.

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  COMFORTABLE - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By DRIVER - June 12 - 2:00 am

  THIS IS A VERY COMFORTABLE SUV. MY HUSBAND IS 63" AND LOVES THE "ROOMYNESS" ABOUT IT. IM ABOUT 54" AND I LIKE THAT IT DOESNT FEEL BULKY. I CAN SEE VERY WELL AND HAVE NO BLIND SPOTS. THE HOOD IS EASY TO SEE OVER AND BACKING UP IS GREAT. THE REAR SEATING IS COMFORTABLE ALSO. IF NEEDED, I AM ABLE TO SIT IN THE REAR IN BETWEEN THE 2 CAR SEATS.

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  sorento - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By Lorial10992 - June 8 - 10:00 am

  So far no problems, nice looks, solid, great value

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  Never in a million years - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By mandalea - June 2 - 8:46 pm

  I never imagined driving a Kia until I saw the new Sorento. We owned an 07 Yukon Denali, but were looking to downsize since we only have one child and moved back to our home state. The extra huge truck just wasnt a practical car for our family anymore. I loved everything about the Sorento online and couldnt believe the price or safety features, plus the warranty is awesome. I was sold the moment the test drive began! The ride is so smooth and the interior quality is unbelievable for a car that costs less than 30K. The Sorento has almost every option the Denali had and the gas mileage is already making me proud before the engine is even broken in!

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  Hard to find more for the money! - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By David D - June 2 - 10:00 am

  We were considering the Hyundai Santa Fe and although we liked the ride, the styling left quite a bit to be desired. We saw a Sorento on the road and loved the exterior so we went to a dealership to take a closer look. When considering performance, safety, comfort and price we couldnt find anything out there that even came close.

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  No more Government Motors - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By bmwcyle - June 2 - 1:40 am

  I was looking to replace my 12 year old Jeep. I looked and drove about everything on the market in the crossover class. I liked the loaded standards and the seats for seven people. The AWD goes were you point it. It is quick and fun to drive. The layout is good and the fit and finish is nice. I had the passenger roof light switch is bad but I have had no other problems. I love the back up camera and it really helps. It turns in a small space. The tires seem alright but I cant wait to try better tires. The car is just a joy to drive.

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  The power of suprise - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By ConvertedtoKIA - May 30 - 11:03 pm

  I always said I would never buy a KIA and thought they were just crappy cars. I saw the commercial for the Sorento during the Super Bowl. I looked into it and when Edmunds.com says a vehicle has very little need for improvement my interest piqued. I was blown away by the car when I saw it in person. Ive been in all kinds of vehicles up a Porsche and I have ridden in very few cars that are this quiet on the road. The gas mileage and power are great. Little known features also got me like Air Ionization in the cabin. Getting the guy from Audi was the best thing KIA couldve done. "Ive got to put my foot in my mouth" I hear that everyday when people see this car.

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  Love my Sorento - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By MJT7 - May 25 - 2:00 am

  After test driving the Sorento I left the dealership with a huge smile on my face. Thinking it was too good to be true, I test drove every other SUV in its class. I kept going back to the Sorento so I bought one! I love it! You cant and wont find a better vehicle with all the bells and whistles at this price! I even liked it over the Honda Pilot!!! A test drive is all you will need!

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  I love my Sorento! - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By Lisa B. - May 25 - 2:00 am

  Im a very new Sorento owner, but so far a very happy owner! I researched all types of SUVs before choosing the Sorento. For the low cost and looks of this vehicle, there is nothing on the market comparable! Im sad to admit that I actually look forward to waking up and driving to work, just so I can drive it! Now thats sad!! What a fun and beautiful SUV!!