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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  Love my Kia! - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By Crescendo - May 24 - 2:00 am

  I cant believe what a great value this vehicle is. It is an absolute pleasure to drive, and looks great as well. In fact, it looks and drives as good or better than many higher-priced SUVs. It was "love at first drive" for me!

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  Very poor gas mileage - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By Mr. Minnesota - May 23 - 12:00 am

  If youre looking for an 4cyl SUV with good gas mileage, this isnt the vehicle for you. I know it will get a little better, maybe 2mpg, but at an average of 22mpg for mostly highway, best I can get is 26mpg at 55mph, not close enough. However, great price, lots of room, well designed but it lacks comfortable seats. Kia, Im very dissapointed you couldnt get an engine in your vehicle that gets at least 30mpg. I should have gone with something else.

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  long drive & snow it still gets me there - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By i love my kia - May 20 - 3:00 am

  I got my kia sorento just this November. It had 70,000 miles on it but with good history. It was well maintained. I drove it from Indiana to upstate NY. With all 6 luggage I cant say anything bad against this car. Now am testing it on snow so far so good. What I have to agree on kia said they will void my warranty because, Im the second owner. What a reason! 100,000 miles of warranty is still 100,000 miles of warranty.

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  Kia did this one right - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By jasonc - May 18 - 10:00 am

  Drive one of these before you buy another SUV. I researched cars (including this one) for 5 months before buying, and I fell in love with this one as soon as I drove it. Its affordable price and warranty makes it even more attractive. Jeep Liberty and Ford Escape dont even come close to this vehicle. It has good power but Id like to see future versions add some h/p and improve the fuel economy. The bumps in the road are more noticable in this car but its really not that bad. Great SUV for a great price.

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  Love it - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By hawaii_bubba - May 17 - 2:33 pm

  I looked at several different Mid Size SUVs including Ford, Mazda and Nissan. Of all the models I looked at the Sorento was the only one that had all the features I was looking for.

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  Test it at highway speeds - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By RC of NC - May 10 - 2:00 am

  I really love "most" everything about my Sorento, except one issue the dealership has yet to have corrected. It has a vibration at highway speeds. I first noticed this right after I bought it. The dealerships response: 1) Its too new, we dont know what to do about it. 2) It has 16" wheels that are difficult to balance. 3) It is a truck, we dont feel anything out of the ordinary. 4) The drive shaft is out 180 degrees. I go to have the oil changed at a different KIA dealership and they notice the vibration right away, and are contacing the factory for assistance, thinking it is the rearend.

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  Promising not perfect - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By Scotlad - May 7 - 11:26 pm

  Overall a great value and exceptional follow up service from the company. We had an initial vibration problem that was solved and corrected. Our biggest complaint is gas mileage which is pathetic for a 4-Cyl. Were we to do it over we would opt for the V-6.

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  Shaky over 70 mph - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By Kia Family - May 4 - 10:00 am

  When driving around town, it is very comfortable and performs well. However, I noticed since the night we brought it home, that if you go anywhere over 70 mph, the truck actually begins to shake. However, after reading some articles on the truck, Ive seen similiar complaints. The Sorento is a very nice looking SUV, that is so similiar in looks to the Lexus 300, it makes you want to park next to them and laugh at how much more they paid for their vehicle. Ive had my Kia Sedona for almost a year, and I absolutely love it!

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  2013 LX GDI AWD - 2013 Kia Sorento
  By ucinn35 - April 30 - 7:35 pm

  We bought a 2012 SX AWD for the wife last year. We love that car so much we bought another one for me. I use it for work everyday so I went with the GDI for better gas mileage. Im getting between 24 and 25 combined with a couple hundred pounds of tools and parts in it. The acceleration is peppy and more than adequate. The 6 speed shifts smoothly and effortlessly. Handling is great, a very good turning radius so it handles like a smaller car. The SX has 25000 miles on it and mine has 1000 and weve had no problems out of either of them. I am probably a Kia customer for life now.

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  Excellent Choice - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By Erich - April 29 - 10:00 am

  I was looking for a 4WD vehicle to deal with the past New England winter. After going through about (5) vehicles I caught a look at the KIA at my friends dealership. Everything about it appealed to me. The contents of the book complimentes the cover. One thing that really appeals to me is that the gas tank fill is on the passenger side. Good for all the Jersey natives.