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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  Buy It - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By Bob - December 24 - 3:53 am

  After researching Lexus 330 and Arcura MDX the Sorento provided many of the same features for far less money.

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  One of my favorite vehicles - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By NC Owner - December 24 - 2:00 am

  My wife and I were skeptical at first before the test drive. We really liked the styling, comfort and standard features that cost a lot more on other similar SUVs. Safety was a big decision criteria too. We have put 14,000 miles on it and loved every mile. It is very quiet, powerful and no problems or issues - just smiles!

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  Great Mid size SUV - 2015 Kia Sorento
  By barlo1 - December 22 - 5:51 pm

  Im a loyal Toyota customer, but I wanted to see what other car makers had to offer. So I test drove a number or SUVs from Toyota, Mazda, Ford, Subaru & Nissan. And the 2015 Sorento impressed me so much that I stopped looking. Its the perfect size, it rides great (better than most other SUVs), very comfortable, great standard feature & options. Very good quality all around, great warranty and Im getting about 26mpg city & highway combined. When you compare the price and quality of the Sorento to other SUVs. Sorento wins.

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  jacks review - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By JACK - December 19 - 2:00 am

  we bought this car a year ago and have had a lot of fun with it. had a little trouble with the brake rotors - took it in and the dealer replaced the rotors at no charge, with a smile. it was a great experience.

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  love my new Sorento - 2006 Kia Sorento
  By pedro - December 18 - 6:26 am

  I drove the Sorento for the first time about two weeks ago. I loved it. The ride was excellent. Yesterday I went to the same dealer I purchased my new Kia Sportage in 1998, test drove the Sorento again and...drove it home. I purchased the LX with running board and flood lamps. I paid around $22K TOTAL. Did I say I love this car (suv)? If you are looking at the RAV4, Jeep Liberty, Suzuki Grand Vitara. the Kia Sorento has all them beat, HANDS DOWN. Same price or even cheaper. I wanted to buy the EX but was not crazy about the sunroof. The ride is very smooth. I LOVE IT.

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  After all these years...love my Sorento - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By Diane Babcock - December 16 - 9:53 am

  I saw my new Kia at the local dealer and was immediately impressed with the design. After hearing it was a KIA I was a bit concerned, I knew nothing about the brand. I test drove and did my research, took the plunge and have been very pleased. I now have nearly 50K miles on her and Im so impressed with the reliability. Not a thing has gone wrong in 3 years. My Sorento has been inexpensive to maintain as well. Overall this was a fantastic buy, especially at the $24K price tag.

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  Great Car For A Grandpa - 2015 Kia Sorento
  By joefire - December 16 - 6:46 am

  This is my 2nd Sorento (We had a 2012 also). I love this car! It was great when the grandkids visited . The 3rd seat is meant for them. We have the sx model with all the bells and whistles. The acceleration of the V6 is very good and the quality of the interior is nice.

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  Loving my new KIA Sorento!!!! - 2016 Kia Sorento
  By edward nankin - December 15 - 8:39 pm

  This car is just what we needed for our family of 4. We had a minivan and was looking for a reliable car that we could take on long trips that would hold our luggage and be priced for a family budget...The car is roomy and has plenty of cargo space. It looks great and rides comfortably. It is not too big or small just right in size.

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  For the money - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By skiboji - December 15 - 7:53 am

  Bought in March 2010 and have 16,000 miles on so far. Have no regrets with this car so far. Rides rough but is quiet. Best value for a vehicle that has Nav, leather, dvd and awd.

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  Good Kia - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By Guy1 - December 15 - 1:56 am

  Excellent SUV. Is a gas hog in my opinion. V6 maybe 20 miles a gallon. Quiet ride is exceptional. This vehicle is also built very good. Get the most for your money.