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 SUV - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By Dennis DAgosta - July 18 - 10:56 am

  This a real good SUV. Looks smart, runs even better. 3 critisims... 1)Gas mileage is not the best. 2)left front wheel well mud flap interferes with tight turns. 3) Michelin tires are worn at 30,000 inspite of several rotations. This could be a tire issue or suspension problem..Im not sure which. Overall I like the Sorento vey much. I bought the LX. Next time I will buy the EX for more options.

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  Small and thirsty - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By Dayna - July 16 - 1:00 pm

  I let the style cloud my judgment. This LITTLE SUV is a BIG gas guzzler! I average 12-13 miles per gallon. Most of my driving is city but its not much better on the highway, 18 mpg at best. Does this little SUV need such a big engine? My 2004 KIA Sorento has been very reliable for the 2-plus years Ive owned it, except for the battery and stereo/CD player that have been replaced under warranty. It took nearly 3 months to get the stereo/CD player but the battery was replaced in one visit. I havent had any non-operation problems.

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  a lotta SUV for the $ - 2017 Kia Sorento
  By tim Marzofka - July 14 - 5:29 pm

  We compared several mid sized SUVs by test driving and pricing them out with similar features/packages and the Kia was the best value that we found. We were also very impressed with the ride and the safety features (autonomous braking, lane monitoring, blind spot monitoring and a great back up camera). The basics of the vehicle are great as well - a smooth and surprisingly quiet ride and solid acceleration with the 3.3 V6.

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  Great car for the price. - 2006 Kia Sorento
  By Brenda - July 14 - 11:16 am

  I just bought this car earlier this week and have to say that so far so good. I got out of driving a gas guzzling V-8 and I have been driving the Sorento all week and gas gauge has hardly moved down at all. Easy to get in and out of with two toddlers and easy to find a parking spot. You get a lot of car for the money. Fun and easy to drive. Handles great in town and on the freeway.

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  Great price,geat ride - 2009 Kia Sorento
  By Jeff - July 9 - 4:30 pm

  Bought the 09 Serreno new, Vehicle go 400 miles or more every tank, runs great and has good power. Rear seat leg room is better than other suvs this size. only thing I would add is a foot operated emergency brake and do away with the hand operated one this would add a little more room. Also would add a compass and outside temp. feature to all models.

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  I would do it again.... - 2006 Kia Sorento
  By TeeBrock - July 8 - 6:47 am

  Great all around vehicle. Low maintenance other than routine stuff. Great in the snowy midwest. Lacks a bit in the fuel mileage, but its a trade off.

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  Traded in Expedition - 2008 Kia Sorento
  By Jay Gillette - July 6 - 8:00 am

  I traded in a Ford Expedition Eddie Bauer with all the toys so please keep this in mind when I compare to my new Sorento EX with leather, sunroof, 6 cd, etc. Gas: The Expedition was getting an average of about 16-17 mpg. Thus far the Kia is getting 21-22 mpg for the same daily route taken to home/work. Space: It is lacking with comparison to the Expedition however is very consistent with a mid size SUV. They could have added about 4-6 inches in length to the cargo area to better round out the car, (I think the test should be to fit an average baby stroller in straight with having to put it sideways.) The front has plenty of room for me and I am above average in size, same for the passenger.

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  My 2011 Kia Sorento EXV6 AWD vehicle - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By judy cadorette - July 3 - 2:00 am

  I am really enjoying my new Kia, I love driving it and love the looks of it.The rear camera is a wonderful feature to have and I also enjoy the bluetooth, and we all enjoy the double moonroofs! We went out for dinner the other night and all 7 of us went in my car!(smaller people need to sit in the 3rd row seating)My husband enjoys driving it so much,he is thinking of getting one also! I would definitely recommend this car. Judy Cadorette

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  Luvn my KIA - 2012 Kia Sorento
  By patpittsd - July 2 - 9:13 pm

  I bought my KIA Sorento on Jul 26, 2011. I was not to sure about it at first, but now I love my KIA. I love the fact that now all the kids get to rid. The third row setting really sold me. I get better gas milage with my Sorento than I do in my Acura...didnt think that would be possible. I average 40.00 a week in gas, and thats in stop and go traffic...20.00 dollars more when we take the car...all and all I am happy with "MY KIA..."

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  Great SUV without going for broke! - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By Steve D - June 29 - 9:13 pm

  I was a little nervous in the beginning when deciding what SUV to purchase. The Sorento was the last on my list but impressed me the most. A SUV for $26K fully loaded with leather? I thought it was unheard of, but the Sorento was all that and more. If you are looking for a reliable, spacious, comfortable, classy looking SUV, the Sorento EX should be on the top of your list. People think its either a Lexus or Mercedes; when I tell them its a KIA they are shocked! Its great for lugging our newborn around or just a night out on the town for the two of us.