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 buy - 2009 Kia Sorento
  By FRANK MCARTHUR - June 27 - 6:53 pm

  Had this SUV for one year now and have had ZERO problems. The 6 under the hood gives me passing power when its needed. Inside is very well made. Gets about what I thought I would get on fuel. About 20 HWY and 17 city. I drive this SUV to work and round trip is 120 miles a day, five days a week.

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  Sorento Rocks - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By Shadownin - June 26 - 10:00 am

  Let me just start by saying I love my Sorento! Not only did it come with EVERYTHING standard, but it was way less than the other car companies. Plus, it has the best warranty ever. Its fun to drive, way stylish, and dont tell Kia, but I think they could get away with pricing it $5000 more and still be way ahead of everyone else.

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  Great SUV - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By Darda - June 20 - 11:46 am

  I just purchased my 2011 LX 4cy with remote start, awd, back up camera, sunroof... First Kia product and very impressed. The ride is a bit stiff but very fun to drive. I only have 80 miles on it so will repost soon.

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  Awesome Ride - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By TigCam - June 19 - 10:00 am

  Nice space. Good safety for kids and adults. Ample comfort room to stretch ones legs. Love sitting up so high and really handles the turns well.

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  Pleasantly suprised - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By emsteachr1 - June 19 - 10:00 am

  I searched many manufactures for a quality built and reasonable SUV. When I was about to give up someone mentioned try a KIA. I drove the vehicle and was immediately taken by the quality as well as all the options for the low price. It is smooth riding, quiet and powerful. Considering the 10/100,000 warranty they offer I figured they have to be positive their vehicle will withstand time. The dealer was awesome and I was pleasantly suprised at the lack of pressure and great trade in for my 1998 Explorer. Mileage is decent to, so far I am averaging 20-21 mpg combined city/hwy. At this point I would highly recommend this vehicle.

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  What I did before I purchased the KIA - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By abbottisretired - June 17 - 2:00 am

  I spent many hours on the internet checking out all the SUVs in this segment. What I found was that you would have to spend 10 to 20 thousand more to get the same features. I have had mine for two weeks and in snow. The Sorento performed as expected and with KIAs drive it and forget it 10 year 100000 mile warrenty there is nothing to loose. The buying experience with HART MOTORS in Salem VA was so good and fast that it took longer to get the Sorento out of the showroom than it did to the paper work. I am very happy with my purchase.

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  the car is OK - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By felix15 - June 17 - 2:00 am

  i have a 2500 ccm CRDI diesel with 140 hp only in Germany .. its OK :-))

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  sorento - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By ulbrich - June 14 - 10:00 am

  great performance from the V6. very nice interior, and roomy seating.

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  I love this SUV! - 2012 Kia Sorento
  By swtjen01 - June 10 - 5:49 pm

  I rent cars frequently and had driven my family 7 hours to Orlando on vacation. I was shocked by the performance and comfort because up until then I thought Kia was a cheap automobile maker. It had ipod and sirius radio and other features I expected from a high end suv. I then rented other suvs such as the: GMC acadia, chevy traverse, hyaundai, ford explorer and etc.. and missed the KIA. I finally decided I had to buy one and I have not regretted it. My other car is a Lexus so my friends joked that they couldnt believe I was going to buy something that wasnt considered "high end" but they are amazed at how nice the suv is especially when they drive it and see what im talking about.

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  Goodbye Toyota, Hello KIA! - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By rocknronnie - June 10 - 8:26 am

  I could not believe I was signing a contract at KIA for my new Sorento. After owning several Toyotas, I would never had thought a KIA would sway my emotions so much. I love this vehicle. Great performance, awesome fuel economy (averaging 22mpg without being broken in), looks great. I have had people ask me is that the new MDX! No other vehicle I looked at matched the feature content and driving excitement. Dealer was fantastic and seemed just as exciting for me with my new Sorento. KIA is living up to its moto....the power to surprise!