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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  2004 Sorento Review - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By qpcwrap - May 14 - 10:00 am

  Although I have only had this vehicle 2 months, I absolutely love it!! It is the perfect size and so much fun to drive!! I love the way it looks (comparable to even lexus and bmw) even though obviously there is a HUGE difference between them I have even had people ask me what kind of car I am driving because people do notice it!!

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  excellant buy - 2013 Kia Sorento
  By CD - May 14 - 9:29 am

  a lot offered for the money, the ride is a little stiff

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  Switched back to Kia - 2013 Kia Sorento
  By pdm777 - May 9 - 12:48 pm

  I owned a 2004 Kia Amanti and traded it in for a 2010 Chevy Equinox...loved the gas milage, but gave up too many features I enjoyed in my Kia...so thanks to the special the dealer had I was able to trade in my Chevy for the 2013 Kia Sorento EX...love it...gained all the luxury I was missing and added the peace of mind of the Kia warranty. Gas milage has been great my first tank of gas I averaged 28 mpg which was a mixture of Highway and City miles. Love the bluetooth link to my iPhone and the UVO system is awesome. Lots of room for driver over 62" with plenty of room for back seat passengers....I am so glad I am no longer a Government Motors owner and back in a Kia made in America. :)

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  Time to ditch the past image! - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By Russell Ruffin - May 9 - 8:53 am

  I was at my wits end looking for a car and my last visit was to look at a Kia Sorento. Why did I need to look further? What a value and people think its a Lexus!

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  Best car Ive owned - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By skijump - May 8 - 10:00 am

  I couldnt be happier with my Sorento.

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  2004 KIA Sorento - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By iahawk - May 8 - 10:00 am

  Bought in first part of July. Have put over 2000 miles on vehicle and have had no problems. We have had several SUVs and feel the ride is as good or better than any we have had before. Lots of comments on the looks, some people hesitant of the KIA brand...but dont knock it until youve tried it. Gas mileage isnt the greatest but it is getting what it was suppose to..guess you dont buy a SUV for the gas mileage. Overall I have no complaints and highly recommend this vehicle. You get alot more vehicle for your money.

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  Love my Sorento - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By James - May 7 - 11:53 am

  We just bought our Sorento two weeks ago and we love it. Its so much more "car" than we thought we would get for the price. Gas mileage is not great, but that wasnt the reason we bought the Sorento. It is loaded with features, drives great (actually, more maneuverable than my old Honda Prelude), looks nice, and fits our budget. Friends and family all are very impressed with the car. We are having our first child later this year and feel like weve got a safe, reliable vehicle to serve as our flagship. Id highly recommend the Sorento to anyone in the market for a mini- or mid-size SUV.

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  Buy The V6 - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By Toad - May 5 - 8:56 pm

  We purchased the EX I4 FWD, Premium Pkg 1 with no third seat. We wanted high mpg and cargo space. I would have bought the V6 but the Prem Pkg also requires the Limited Pkg and DVD which are a waste of money IMO. You can get a Garmin for $200 and a portable DVD for $100 The I4 is currently delivering ~22 mpg on the highway and about 20 city. While the I4 has adequate power, the V6 appears to get equal and probably better MPG. Also, we have driven the V6 about 5 hours on the highway as a dealer loaner and the V6 ride is much smoother and less choppy than the I4 for some reason. The Sorento is a comfortable car, even for a 6 tall driver like me. The EX should have a radio upgrade available.

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  most comfortable !! reliable suv !! - 2016 Kia Sorento
  By TIEN (JOE) NGUYEN - May 4 - 6:24 pm

  Now i previously owned a KIA Sorento 2010 i bought this new one BIG IMPROVEMENTS !! ROOMIER !! comfortable !! most of all reliable !!

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  Not happy at all! - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By Connie - May 1 - 7:10 pm

  I purchased my Kia Sorento in March. Ive driven it 648 miles. So far, the car has at least 3 rattles that sound like the car is falling apart. I got the back up camera - a waste of time because it cuts down your view in the rear view mirror. The mirror dims at night so you cant see where cars are behind you - dangerous! It rides like a truck and the brakes make me pray every time I try to apply them -- never know if they will stop me! Fairly decent gas mileage. I traded in my Toyota Highlander for this vehicle, and as soon as I can save up enough money, Ill trade the Sorento in to get back to my Highlander. Ive driven Toyotas for 22 years -- never a rattle. Not so with Sorento!