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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  Kia... designed to fail at 61,000 miles - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By Skylar Sutton - March 6 - 10:59 am

  Were the second owners of this vehicle, purchased it 2 years old with about 20,000 miles on it. We had minor/insignificant issues during the 60k bumper-to-bumper warranty period (which DOES transfer to the second owner)... insignificant things like a backup camera that needed replaced and some minor vibrations on the interior that just needed tightening up. Let me tell you though, almost the MINUTE that warranty was up parts started falling off this thing like a cartoon. We just had to take it in for a $450 oil pressure sensor that caused us to lose the entire contents of our engine oil in less than an hour. Thats a MAJOR engine component and WOULD have been covered under the 100,000 mile powertrain warranty... EXCEPT it doesnt transfer to the second owners. Ive owned cars with 200,000 miles on them that never needed an oil pressure sensor replaced. That is a major engine component that should last the life of the vehicle. Im terribly disappointed in this vehicle and Kia service in general. If you absolutely have your heart set on one of these, intend to have it paid off and traded in by the end of your 60,000 mile warranty or its going to cost you thousands per year to keep it limping along.

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  Like a rock! - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By drblptq - March 5 - 2:33 am

  I owned this for three years, bought new, as a work vehicle. This has to be the the heaviest build small suv I have ever driven. Although there were numerous trips to the shop under warranty all was taken care of efficiently with little fuss. The gas mileage is abysmal, at 15 city and 20 highway, but built like a tank. I was rear ended at 50,000 miles and all I had was a cracked bumper cover! The honda that hit me was totalled. The car never let me down, and honestly I have been considering buying a used one as a second vehicle for my wife.

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  4 Month Update - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By Kansas - February 28 - 12:33 am

  Our Sorento has performed well these first 4 months. Like some others, it developed a jolt when starting. Our temporary resolution is to not use the parking break and make sure there is pressure on tranny after stop. The dealership has been responsive thus far, but because it only jolts after engine is hot and sat for 1-4 hours, difficult to diagnose. The car is improving on gas mileage (23 hwy). Except for the tran, performs great- there have been no other issues. I would be interested in others posting regarding transmission issue.

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  "Looks like a Lexus; its Affordable" - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By TahitiOnline - February 23 - 2:00 am

  Being the proud owner of another Kia, with well over 100,000 trouble-free miles on it, we knew this was our next SUV. It is a beautiful vehicle and has received rave reviews from our "jealous" friends who love the style and color. During the recent 6 day "Storm Watch" with terrible driving conditions in the Pacific NW USA, our Kia handled the road like a "Hummer"! Nothing stopped it and we felt very safe inside. Of course, driving with some good old common sense helped also!

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  Great Car - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By Mitohan - February 18 - 10:00 am

  My Sorento is fun to drive and very comfortable. I did a little research before purchasing one, and it ranks with some of the best out there.

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  Dont waste your cash! - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By nonadoss - February 15 - 6:13 pm

  We purchased this car because of the warranty and the fact of having good luck with Hyundais. Our test drive was a couple of blocks, our mistake, bought the car. This is the roughest riding car I have ever driven, acts like it doesnt even have shocks. The Kia Rep. was in town, took our car for a drive and we were told that the roughness was due to the 17" wheels which are on the LX models, paid over $22,000 less than three months ago, they offered $17,500 trade-in on he EX model. I called the Kia Factory and they said we would just have to live with if or put 18" wheels at our expense. My advice is. STAY AWAY FROM THE HYUNDAI AND KIA CARS, the warranty is not worth it.

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  Needs Improvement - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By Disappointed Owner - February 15 - 2:43 am

  Purchased vehicle in March 2010, Kia needs to address the issue with the noisy front end struts and the ride quality on bumpy roads asap. I had to the dealer twice for this issue and they said that Kia is aware of the issue but has no fix as of yet. This is unacceptable! If they know there is a problem then why dont they take care of it. I would not recommend this vehicle to anyone at this point because of this issue. Very annoying.

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  Sorrento SX is the best value - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By darfer19 - February 14 - 3:45 pm

  We were looking for a replacement for our Chrysler town and country and the Sorrento is perfect. It has the 3rd row seating which is good for kids, and all of the features are better than expected. We looked at the Traverse, Hyundas, Honda Pilot, and Ford Edge. The Traverse was nice but still had a lot of generic plastic interior parts and the price was high.. with features mid to high 30s .. With teh Sorrento we bought an SX which has everything GPS , Sirius., Bluetooth, Voice recognition commands, heated seats , and safety 5 stars... best deal by far

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  I Luv my Kia - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By Reeny - February 9 - 2:00 am

  I have had the chance to drive my Kia in the snow this weekend and it did an amazing job! I love the look and the feel of my new SUV...and people even say it looks like a Lexus!

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  Great Camping/Towing Vehicle - 2013 Kia Sorento
  By Jimmy C - February 8 - 3:38 am

  I was skeptical about KIAs history, but I did a ton of research and discovered their reviews and quality have greatly improved since the 2000s. Weve owned our 2013 Sorento for almost 2 years and 25,000 miles. The 2013 Sorento LX 3.5 has greatly exceeded my expectations. I own a 16 TrailLite camper (3,500 lbs loaded). The Sorento EASILY pulls it at idle. I was amazed how well the KIA pulled my camper with my 2 fishing kayaks on the roof-rack. Granted Fuel economy drops while towing from 25mpg (@75mph) to about 11mpg (@70), but that was still better than expected. Acceleration is a little jumpy and takes some getting used to. Breaks are great. Handling is smooth and comfortable. Changing the oil was a learning experience; the filter is on the top of the engine, which was new to me; I searched for it for about 5 minutes before I gave in and Googled its location. The filter is about 2x more expensive that typical filters. It takes nearly 6 quarts of oil. Seating - Front is comfortable, but I wouldnt mind the seats being a little wider. Im 60, 220, 40" waist. The second row seating is fairly comfortable, and they recline! The 3rd row is tight for me, but I could fit if I lost a bet. Ideal size for 3rd row would be < 5. In my opinion, none of the mid-size SUV competitors can compare to the Sorento when talking about towing capacity, economy, features and price.