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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  Warranty is just a Word - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By UnhappyOwner - February 15 - 10:03 am

  Beware of the warranty, Kia really does not cover much at all. 10-Year 100,000 mile warranty really means that anytime you have a problem the dealer will attempt to explain why it is not covered. The warranty is garbage. Do not let the warranty enter into your decision to purchase this vehicle because the warranty is a big joke.

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  Dont Waste Your Money - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By Gary Kelemen - February 14 - 11:10 am

  At 80000 miles, the ICV valve broke and damaged the engine. After 2 months of warranty work, there is a persistent oil leak that the only dealership within 30 miles cannot fix. I spent $600 on auto rental during warranty repair. It just isnt worth owning. Run away from KIA!!

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  shockingly good! - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By nocal kia convert - February 8 - 9:23 am

  EX 2WD I4 limited/premium & 3rd row I drove a TON of competitors, didnt even know about the new Sorento until I spotted one. It is not just a lot of car for the money, its simply a shockingly nice vehicle. It really shouldnt be compared against RAV4 or CRV - much nicer interior and exterior design, definitely larger, and a more refined ride than either. Size/features/ride slot it more against the Highlander, Murano, or MDX - but undercuts all of those by $10k or more comparably equipped. Interior design/features more tasteful than all save perhaps the MDX. Murano and MDX have a more sportier drive, but for the 10-15K premium they seem a stretch as neither is exactly a Cayenne.

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  Excellent MPG - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By Excellent MPG!!! - February 5 - 7:33 am

  I purchased my 2011 4 cyl Sorento in March 2010 (With Premium 1 and Limited) and normally experience 29-32 MPG on the highway. City driving is around 25- 27. I have 5,500 miles now and very pleased with the MPG. I have been a loyal Honda customer, but they were not willing to consider negotiating on the new Crosstour. Im very pleased with the Sorento thus far.

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  Sorento review - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By sorentofan - February 5 - 2:00 am

  We shopped for a small midsize suv for over 1 year. We first where turned on to the Kia Sorento at the los angeles auto show in 2003. We looked at all suvs in this class, after test driving several different suvs, we found ourselves comparing all others to the sorento. Kias 100,000 mile warranty and luxury options convinced us that the Sorento was the car for us.

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  Unreliable KIA Sorento - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By subalulf - January 30 - 7:02 am

  Our Kia Sorento (EX V6) had to have the transmission replaced at 15,000 miles (not the recalled version). The electrical panels replaced at 25k miles. Mysterious popping noise in axel went un-repaired because they couldnt figure out the issue. Interior component broke prior to 36k. It was supposed to be covered under warranty but local dealer network refused to repair. Claiming it was "broken" and not a factory defect. We did not "break" the part but customers have little recourse if the dealer network performs the evaluation (and damaged the part further during evaluation). In general, Kia corporate and the Kia dealers appear unreliable and unresponsive to multiple mechanical flaws.

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  KIA Sorento - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By verygreenmom - January 24 - 10:00 am

  Better than we imagined it could ever be! Love all the features and the wonderful warranty KIA offers. We will make KIA our future car purchases also.

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  FUN TO OWN AND DRIVE - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By BIG - January 24 - 10:00 am

  ALMOST IMMEDIATELY AFTER PURCHASING OUR KIA SORENTO WE WERE HIT WITH HEAVY SNOWS (11-13").THE FULL TIME 4WD ENABLED US TO TRAVEL EASILY ON UNPLOWED SIDE STREETS AND GET IN AND OUT OF PLOWED-IN DRIVEWAYS. ENJOYED DEEP SNOW FOR THE FIRST TIME IN YEARS. FROM THE DAY WE TOOK DELIVERY (O1-2003) EVERYTHING WORKED EXACTLY AS SUPPOSED TO.IN MY OPINION THE KIA IS ONE OF THE BEST KEPT SECRETS AROUND.

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  Great car!! - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By Howie K - January 24 - 10:00 am

  Bought new in April 04, gas milage is better than what the window sticker says 21+mpg highway 18+mpg city! No problems at all! has about 5000 miles on it. Compare it to a Lexus, It looks the same, but its $20,000 LESS

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  Love my Sorento - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By Gillscolly - January 24 - 10:00 am

  After many years of having unreliable minivans, its great to have a reliable and groovy car. I never thought I could be in love with a car, but I am my "Ruby". Awesome ride and excellent quality and value!!