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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  Great car for the price - 2007 Kia Sorento
  By Frank Estrada - December 13 - 1:36 pm

  We bought our Kia as an alternative to a minivan and could not be happier. Its plenty large for a family of 5 comfortably. If you try to open the rear door in your garage you might find it a bit interesting. Living in the mid-west, winters get cold and the wiper defroster is awesome. Spring for the 4WD if in snow climates. Engine has lots of torque and even with enhancement features you might find yourself gripping the wheel with all your might.

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  2012 KIA Sorento LX AWD - 2012 Kia Sorento
  By lamplighter30 - December 3 - 5:25 am

  Due to a blown headgasket in my 02 Liberty I had to move up my plans to buy a new car. I had been looking at the 12 Sorento for a few months. I am a very tall person, no way I can fit in a sedan, I have more than enough leg and head room, seats are very comfortable, excellent visibility front and back, 2.4 GDI engine, more than enough pickup to be able to merge into highway traffic. Have to wait for the winter to be able to evaluate the AWD system. Already took a 150 mile trip, estimated 26 mpg city/highway driving. Still too early to do a detailed evaluation, Ill do another post if anything changes.

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  Our Sorento - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By Robert - December 2 - 2:23 am

  We like our Sorento. It is a beautiful SUV. It has handled the little off highway excursions flawlessly. The warranty experience has been good except we have no dealerships close by and the front brake rotors need to be turned again at 37K. We love the quiet ride. We would like to see the gas mileage improved (it is an SUV) and to have a true FlexFuel (gasoline, alcohol, diesel, biodiesel) capability combined with hybrid technology (electric). We would also like some accommodation made for HAM radio installations (but that is one of our things). The farthest weve taken it is from CA to UT during a hot summer & it kept us cool. So far one of the better vehicles, but 37K isnt many miles.

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  Nice Car!!!! - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By edubb - December 1 - 5:03 pm

  We bought the Sorento on Feb 13th for a good price. The financing options were very favorable. This is our first KIA. My wife and I are die hard honda owners but KIA has changed that. Since the vehicle is new, I cant really comment on maintenance issues. However, we bought the LX+ conv pkg and we love it. It has heated fabric seats and all the little techno stuff. Most we tested costed a lot for these features. Best Value I think for the price!!!

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  2004 Sorento Marginal at Best - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By ablebaker - December 1 - 8:30 am

  Rust and reliability issues, dealer maintenance costs are exorbitant and warranty issues are always issues. 23,000 miles and a plastic bushing from a defective intake manifold gets sucked into the #6 piston which it destroys. Gas mileage is abysmal - 12mpg in town 17mpg highway going downhill with a tailwind. Next time itll be a Honda.

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  Satisfied So Far - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By rach13 - November 30 - 9:06 pm

  We purchased our 2011 Sorento a few weeks ago. Driving conservatively, getting around 25 mpg in town. Spacious interior...husband is 64 and fits comfortably with adequate head room. Appealing looking interior & exterior. Ride not as smooth over rougher roads. Occasional rattling in rear area...not able to identify. Click sound from dashboard, behind radio when slowing down & hitting 5 mph. Dealership stated that the click noise is due to a "relay" which allows a driver to move from Drive to Reverse. The sound is a little frustrating/irritating to me but may not bother other drivers. Overall, the vehicle appears to be a great purchase.

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  Kia at its best - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By govenor - November 28 - 1:13 am

  Vehicle is great! I traded a GMC Jimmy for the Sorento and have not been sorry. Vehicle is fun to drive and performs better than my GMC in the snow. It is very comfortable on long trips.

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  Sorento with 7 people - 2016 Kia Sorento
  By Peter - November 25 - 11:00 am

  No storage with third seat. Everything else great.

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  First Time Kia Owner - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By BBallDad - November 24 - 10:00 am

  After looking at many SUVs on the market the Sorrento is by far the best buy for your buck. So far (knock wood) we have had no problems and the gas mileage is improving (albeit still slightly under 20 mpg on the highway). The wife and kids love the car especially the sunroof and I love the payments!

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  Kia - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By Nadine - November 24 - 10:00 am

  I really wasnt going to buy this car, but when I took it for a test drive I really likes it. It is quiet, has lots of room and storage. My sons loves riding in this car because it is high up. The gas mileage is alright but I did not expect it to be great as it is a truck.