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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Dutch Review - 2003 Kia Sorento
By erm59 - May 25 - 2:00 amHello everybody, this is a review from the Netherlands. I drove 2 Nissan Patrols for the last years and looked for something more comfortable with a nice price. This car has everything in it and i am very happy with it! It is fun to drive and people like the car because it looks good.
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Defective part that can cause catastrophic failure - 2006 Kia Sorento
By Kathy - May 24 - 4:43 amModel years 2002-09 contain a defective engine crank sprocket that when the bolt breaks, causes you to loss your power steering and the engine is JUNK. The bolt broke while I was on the highway doing 65 MPH. When I went to steer on to the on ramp, I had NO power steering and almost went off the road. I had the car towed to the dealer and they told me the crank shaft bolt broke and I needed a new engine to the tune of $5000.00 I purchased the car used 6 months before for $8900.00 and there was less than 91,000 miles on it. I ended up losing my shirt on this piece of junk that Kia KNEW was defective. They dont seem to care that someone can get killed when this happens.
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Great SUV - 2006 Kia Sorento
By Stephanie - May 15 - 2:00 pmWeve owned our Sorento for 3-1/2 years and have been pleasantly surprised. We had never owned a Kia or knew anyone who owned one and were worried about the quality as a result. It has over 30k miles on it and weve never had a single problem, issue, or bug with it. We mostly use it for short trips around town, but it has performed well in all sorts of conditions (snowy mountain, rural desert roads, regular big city driving with constant breaking and fast accelerating). Weve gotten the oil changed regularly and done the recommended maintenance, but other than that, its required no trips to the dealer or shop.
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wow - 2003 Kia Sorento
By TGuess - May 13 - 10:00 amWhen I first looked at the Sorento I was impressed. After two months of looking around, Icould not find anything better. But a KIA? After owning the Sorento now for almost two months. All I can say is: If you want a GREAT SUV get to KIA and buy one!!
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Great SUV - 2005 Kia Sorento
By krysta - May 13 - 3:06 amMu husband bought this for me when I was 6 months pregnant. This was the only car that I was comfortable in and still am . I really love this SUV. I would definitely buy another one in the future
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Post Purchase Hitch & Runing Lights - 2011 Kia Sorento
By Johnnie - May 11 - 10:00 amPurchased the 2011 Sorento new about six (6) weeks ago. Absolutely no problems to report thus far. Positive reports on interior, exterior, performance and gas mileage. Yes, I had to scotch-guard the seats to prevent water spotting. One question on installing a trailer hitch and running lights. It looks like the lights/electrical connections are already installed even though it didnt come with a trailer hitch. Is that right? Also, how much work/expense to install the running lights? This unit didnt come with that package but Id like to install the running lights. Thanks.
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Second Kia bought in less than 3 months - 2004 Kia Sorento
By RB2003 - May 7 - 2:00 amThis is my second Kia. I bought a Kia Sedonna Ex 3 months ago and so far I have nothing bad to say about it. I had a Dodge Caravan which I traded in for the Sedonna, and I had a Dodge Dakota which I leased 5 years ago. The Sorento took its place. My wife loves to drive the Sorento and I must admit I am a little jealous because I drive the van. I am hoping that the Kias dont disappoint me because right now I like both of them very much. I did a lot of internet research on both and found that they both received pretty good reviews. All in all I am very pleased with my selection.
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i love my car - 2004 Kia Sorento
By o2style - May 7 - 2:00 amI have had my Kia for a few months now. I love it. The engine is a little noisey when you really get it your all. I love that i can fit into tight parking spots with no problems. So far i love it am glad in made the purchase.
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The best from Kia - 2004 Kia Sorento
By Rody - May 7 - 2:00 amThe ride is smooth. the warranty is the best in the market 10 years 100000 miles. My wife is very impress, My kids loves it. The engine is running so quietly
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Surprisingly Good! - 2004 Kia Sorento
By Reggie Beas - May 7 - 2:00 amAfter all the bad things Ive heard about Kia, I cant believe the Sorento is this good! I show off my Kia as much as I can, because this is a solid truck, as good as anything Honda, Toyota or any of the other market leaders can muster up! My truck is loaded, but I tell my friends get the base Sorento Great truck for short money! Of course, the money you save goes towards gas, but you cant have it all
