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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  ME AND MY KIA....PERFECT TOGETHER!!!!!!! - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By mmglord - March 21 - 10:00 am

  The Kia Sorento is a wonderful car. I am so pleased with my Kia....I would buy another one in a heart-beat! It handles great, it looks wonderful, its great on gas, its sooooo big on the inside....its extremely comfortable for my passengers and for me......what else could you ask for.

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  500 Km to My First BREAK DOWN - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By jrid - March 18 - 2:16 am

  I will keep this short.......Bought the 2011 Sorento 2 weeks ago.....and still on the first tank of gas and just under 500 kms right off the dealer lot........my new car breaks down!!!! Its now been 5 days with the car still in the dealer garage.......WOW....thats really reliable (sarcasim). I am not pleased. Asked dealer for a loaner car and was refused....becuse I did not buy the extended warrenty. Excuse me! I have just paid over $32K for my car and it breaks down and the Kia dealer left me high and dry!!!! Never shall I sway from my American 3 choices,........this Canadian will only buy American from this day on......

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  Gotta get a Kia - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By 4wheelr - March 17 - 2:00 am

  I bought my new Kia EX loaded with leather package, moonroof, rear spoiler, ABS and Cargo tray after one test drive. My Nissan Pathfinder lease was up and I didnt want to lease again, but I wanted a reliable and fun SUV. The Kia has it all. I test drove a Saturn VUE and was not impressed at all. The Kia is an outstanding value for the money. I think we are going to see alot of Sorentos on the road very soon!

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  Annoying! - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By mariebee - March 11 - 8:13 am

  Bought my Sorento brand new in 2004. Did my homework before I purchased it and people seemed to like it - at that time. Ive had it for 6 years now and Ive had to buy a new battery every year for 5 years because the factory installed CD (which was replaced twice) was using up all the juice. Ive had to replace tail lights every year. The last 6 months, Ive shelled out over $500 because of coolant reservoir leaks, after I paid off the dang thing.

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  Got this for Christmas and Love It!!!! - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By Princess - March 11 - 12:13 am

  My husband gave this to me as a Christmas gift and it is the best gift ever! I had a 2004 Kia Optima and loved it and I wanted to stay with the Kia family. I love my Sorento even though I intially thought an SUV would be too big and awkward to drive but I needed something bigger - more room. The warranty is one of the best out there. It handles just like a car so I dont feel like I am driving this big piece of machinery. It looks far more $$$$ than it really is. Several people thought it was a Lexus or Acura! Looks way better than those to me!

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  A great compromise. - 2012 Kia Sorento
  By jdubbs19 - March 10 - 2:17 pm

  We bought the Sorento after looking at the CR-V and Rav4. The Sorento won out for the obvious: better warranty, features and more truckish styling (at least in our opinion). We got a killer deal (as does just about anybody) and read through the requirements to uphold the warranty to the T. Long story short, its a killer value and so far nothing has gone wrong. Weve put 10,000 miles in three months, taking long trips, moving and hauling lots of cargo. Its proven to be comfortable while averaging about 25-26 mpg on the highway and about 20 mpg in the city. Kias advertised 32 mpg can be achieved and has been, but only while driving 60-65 mph on a steady, flat highway. Id buy it again.

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  First Time Kia Owner - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By Ralph - March 8 - 6:40 am

  Find the L-4 engine very competent in this vehicle coupled with Kias 6 speed auto. Just completed first 800 miles (mostly hwy)averaging 25.8 mpg while pushing/testing vehicle during highway driving through mountains and expressway driving in TN and KY. Delighted with lack of engine noise and strain during shift down while going through mountains on cruise control at 70 mph. Pleased with my purchase price and overall quality and performance. This is the 7th SUV vehicle I have owned during the past 25 years and may be the best.

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  Love that truck... - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By HJS - March 8 - 2:56 am

  Its a really nice truck with great styling inside and out with good fit, finish and quality... also plenty of power... great offroader, too... had no issues except a split overflow canister which was replaced under warranty... and break shudder comes into the picture once the rotors wear down... but can be avoided by installing better grade after market replacement rotors which are actually cheaper than the original ones...... otherwise my six year old Sorrento is still rock solid and running smooth... it is quiet on the road and comfortable compared to other SUVs out there... will replace it with the same model if it ever falls apart... but so far its holding up very well...

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  gas tank problem - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By acea - March 8 - 1:33 am

  Hi! I Love my Kia. My problem is The last two times I filled the gas tank.. 1st time it didnt even registar that I put $40. of gas in it the 2nd time it took forever for it to register $30 of gas 3rd time filled fine but while sitting at an idle I went from 3/4 tank to 0 and slowly went back up to 3/4 dropped a little and back up again it is really strange. Has anyone any info one this problem?

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  2009 Kia Sorento - 2009 Kia Sorento
  By Teri Padgett - March 6 - 3:26 pm

  This is an easy handling SUV. It performs very well in snow and on ice. It helped pull bigger cars out of ditches during a blizzard. It has great power, accelerates easily. I love this car inside and out.