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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  excellent 4x4 - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By ron siegel - March 19 - 2:00 am

  We really like this suv very much. more car than we had anticipated. this car should do well

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  Best Purchase To-Date - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By sdolan - March 17 - 8:02 am

  Recently bought the 2011 Kia Sorento LX (AWD, 6 speed automatic) and it has been the BEST purchase to-date. It has a truck chassis and so, if you like the feel/ride of a truck youll enjoy this one. Smooth shift of gears helps enjoy the ride, though you have to watch your speed; 100 kms feels the same as 60 kms and I noticed I speed a little more (accidentally) in this vehicle.

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  Bargain Luxury and Style - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By noelsboyce - March 16 - 3:10 am

  What began as a search for a luxury vehicle including such names as Lexus and Acura, quickly led us to a little known bargain of the Kia Sorento. The looks are comparable to the big two aforementioned, while the price wasnt half of equally aged vehicles. The 2003 Sorento EX is the "upscale" model. Our includes leather, tow, Harman Kardon sound, power everything, sunroof, etc. We got ours with slightly higher mileage for just under $12K. We did however opt for the additional extended warranty. The vehicle rides extremely smooth compared to the Jeep Grand Cherokee we traded in. The luxury appointments are very well suited for a small suv class vehicle. All in all a bargain for the price and year

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  Kia Sorento - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By Fun Cars - February 28 - 1:36 am

  This is a fun SUV - so comfortable to drive. Went from a small Neon to the Sorento - absolutely love it.

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  Kia Sorento - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By Mike - February 26 - 11:10 pm

  Not as smooth as I would like on bumps. But very roomy, very comfortable.

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  I used to be a "Chevy Man"... - 2006 Kia Sorento
  By Frizzer - February 25 - 5:53 pm

  ...until I bought my 2006 Kia Sorento! I have owned my Sorento for 7 weeks and have put over 4,000 miles on it, mostly commuting. This vehicle is comfortable, powerful and fun to drive. It is good for lugging the kids to practice and it looks good when I take my wife out. My wife and I have always bought Chevy trucks before and after test driving the Kia Sorento and experiencing quality again, we were sold. The Kia Sorento is the perfect all around family car.

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  Great value compared to most other mini suvs - 2016 Kia Sorento
  By Galen - February 23 - 3:42 am

  Great value for the money. Attractive interior, very roomy and handles well. I love the 3rd row seating that folds flat.

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  Not Enough Bang For The Buck - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By nojoke1 - February 21 - 6:14 pm

  We purchased a 2011 SX AWD with 42,000 miles recently. This being my first Kia and first SUV I was excited to say the least. However, after a few weeks of driving I started noticing little things such as rattles, rough ride, touchy steering, road noise, acceleration issues (barely touch the pedal and expect a whiplash), cheap plastic interior, uncomfortably flat seat cushions, and seat warmers with one setting (scalding or off). It has already been in the shop for shift lock cam being loose and within a month is going back for the same problem. I believe the Sorento has potential as being a quality vehicle but has several issues to improve on. I find it substandard for the price!

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  nice surprise - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By john1 - February 17 - 10:00 am

  I have had the Sorento for 7 mos and have put 12,100 miles on it, Have taken to long trips, first was 1000 miles r/t the second was 3,900 miles r/t this was from Florida to Canada and many places inbetween. The ride was great and very comfortable, gas milage varied from 19 MPG to 24 MPG (this was at 60 miles per hour in Canada. 2 Adults and 2 children with luggage for a 2 wk vacation and still had enough room, neaver got tired driving and have had no problems whatsoever. The dealer service dept has been excellent with the 2 oil chng and servicing I have had.

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  RUN AWAY FROM KIA! - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By acraite - February 16 - 5:05 pm

  I am so mad with myself to buying this car. It was so cute and nice. It was nice to drive. It look great! Then, my satalite radio subscibion ran out. So I was listening to fm. Its all staticy and crackley. I called kia service multple times that is how it is suppose to be. okay. Great a 30,000 $ car and the radio is crap. A few weeks later the backup camera comes on, in DRIVE! Okay, call the Kia service, they tell me that there is nothing wrong. I am so mad, that I cant be helped. I have a video of my camera coming on and the stupid people in the service tell me there is nothing to be fixed. Dont be stupid and buy a kia. Damn I should have bought a Toyata or a freaking honda