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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  My New Car - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By mee2hue - August 23 - 10:00 am

  I just bought my new Kia Sorento about a month ago now. The car is fine as it comes but Ive found that a few safety things are missing. EX: tail gate is not always locked, even though the sticker says it has daytime running lights the car does not. Also I believe that the sticker price was way out of reach for most people. I thought I got a good deal but didnt so I would caution those contemplating a Kia Sorento purchase that Buyer Beware. Know that you are getting all you expect to get. Would I buy another that remains to be seen but right now NO.

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  A real Value - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By jnmip - August 21 - 3:20 pm

  I bought the Sorento to replace a Subaru Forrester and it beats it in every way. More power, better seating position (very Comfortable), better build quality, better handling and a much more handsome vehicle. The Subaru seemed tinny and cheap by comparison. The Sorento is packed with standard features making it a great buy for the buck.

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  So glad I listened to mom!! I love it! - 2006 Kia Sorento
  By jennjan68 - August 21 - 7:23 am

  So glad I listened to my mom!! I love it! I am the second owner of this KIA. I just bought it 5 days ago from a local dealership here in AZ. with 32,500 miles on it...And it looks, drives and handles like its brand new. I AM IMPRESSED! I know that Ive only my KIA for under a week, but I feel very confident in saying that I would highly recommend this vehicle to anyone looking for a mid size SUV. I work in the rental car industry, so Im able to drive all sorts of vehicles. And with our fleet changing every few months, Ive gotten the full experience of each and every SUV out there sm. to lg. & affordable to expensive. The KIA Sorento gets an A+ in my opinion!

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  Like it but dont love it - 2012 Kia Sorento
  By jaime22 - August 18 - 5:01 pm

  Purchased a Sorento 3 months ago: was impressed with mpg promises and warranty. Handles nice and looks sharp, but its no where near perfection. We have the GDI engine, seems almost sluggish at times. 22-32 mpg promised, the best we can do, even on long trips, is 25, so disappointed in that. One of my biggest complaints is lack of a few basic features: no compass or outdoor temperature reading. (didnt notice on the test drive!) Really? Heated seats, bluetooth, backup camera, and no temp or compass? I miss them more than I thought I would. Also needs more storage. Be thorough and know what youre getting-big variety in pkgs. Like my title says: like it but dont love it. (yet?)

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  What Value! - 2007 Kia Sorento
  By Darlene - August 17 - 11:03 am

  We shopped around and reviewed all similar SUVs and the Sorento is the best value bar none. It looks sporty and has 262 hp to get you moving if you need it. There is also peace of mind with the best bumper to bumper warranty out there. We have only had the SUV for a few weeks. In time we will see why the mfr. is so generous and confident here. Thats backing your product, which is something the others are starting to consider or do.

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  Horrible gas mileage - 2012 Kia Sorento
  By b99munson - August 17 - 12:23 am

  I enjoy owning this car, and Im satisfied with it in every way, except for the giant gas mileage ripoff. I paid an extra $1700 to buy the "Convenience Package" with the 22 city/32 highway sticker. Now those numbers have been readjusted down to 21/30, which is a big laugh. I drive like an old lady (actually I AM an old lady) and the ECO light is on almost all the time, supposedly reflecting the fact that I dont do any jackrabbit starts, stomp the brakes, etc. My normal driving is a mix of city and highway, and I dont get 21 mpg. I took it on the highway, completely unloaded, with the A/C turned off, and got up to 28 mpg going 65mph on cruise. Big woop. Kia should be closed down!

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  Nice Job Kia - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By bk pots - August 12 - 2:00 am

  Overall very nice ride. Some simple improvements from Amer. counterparts would be nice. Very solid and high performing 6 cyl.

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  GREAT SUV POOR MPG - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By CARROW - August 12 - 2:00 am

  THe ride is smooth as aluxury car. The moon roof. am/fm, cass. cd sterero sytem are a great investment. The navigation system is another added plus. The electric drivers seat, tilt stearing wheel and cruise control make a long drive an enjoyable experience.

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  best bang for all bucks - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By laid back bill - August 12 - 2:00 am

  I just bought my new kia. I love the way it looks and the way it handles.It has everything i was looking for in an suv. I am a first time suv owner. I love the warranty the best around, and also the creature comfortes that my kia gives me. There are so many suvs on the market today. I am very happy today that i did the research on owning one, and the new kia serento gives me the best of it all, an suv with all the high marks, and the best for my bucks.

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  Sorry Sorento - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By MrFixit - August 9 - 4:13 am

  I bought the car 9 months ago and since then had a new transmission put in (2 months), new steering wheel (crooked) and a few shimmers and creaks fixed as well as dash rattling. Now the one that kills me is having the harmonic balancer (main pulley) bolt break off while doing 70mph down the freeway and losing power steering and a few other important driving features. Keep in mind that the bolt is connected directly to the crank shaft which is now going to be replaced because KIA doesnt ship complete motors and this after owning it 9 months with only 8000 miles.