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 SORENTO - GREAT BUT NOT FILLING - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By DRJOHN - January 24 - 10:00 am

  JUST CAME OFF A 5000 MILE vacation trip THRU THE ROCKIES. NO OFF ROAD TRAvel. The KIA SUV handles like a dream, rides like a dream, and it is very quiet. I road in a Mercedes c320 wagon recently and it was noisy and it road very hard like a pick-up truck. I wouldnt trade even up. At $ 20,000, 10 year/100,000 mile warranty (best in the business) its a steal. We used to have a Suzuki SUV V6. Cute car, but it would have had to struggle up those mountains on this trip and it road much harder. The KIA SUV is truely a Luxury machine. Its quick too! BEST VALUE ON THE MARKET. BELONGS IN THE TOP 10 OF SUVs. I got 20 mpg, but IT weighs 4000#s.

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  Expensive replacement parts great car - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By gwynnat - January 17 - 12:56 pm

  Weve owned this car for over a year and have been pretty happy with it. Its got 104050 miles on it. The downside is the cost and availability of parts. The major parts (and some not so major like shocks) are only available through the factory or a dealer and are considerably more expensive than typical replacement parts. On this model year two different water pumps were produced and they are not interchangeable. We didnt find this out until it was at our mechanics to get the timing belt and water pump replaced. Just the parts cost about $500. Also, the coolant reservoir has a tendency to crack/split and costs about $150 to replace.

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  Best Valued SUV Sorento - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By MIKE M - January 17 - 10:00 am

  I researched SUVs for 6 months and test drove all of them: Sorento, Sante Fe, Suzuki, Trailblazer, Explorer, Montero, 4Runner, Durango. After overcoming the KIA concerns and test driving I was sold. This is a solidly built, excellent handling and riding SUV. It met my needs for a midsize with towing capabilities and all the amenities at a very affordable price. I drive both city and highway and it performs excellent in either situation. With the excellent warranty you cant go wrong.

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  Kia Sorento - 2014 Kia Sorento
  By brianv2 - January 16 - 5:57 pm

  My wife needed a new car and we wanted something that could haul 5 comfortably, and occasionally squeeze up to 2 more. Reliability was also very important. In addition, my wife loves all the little comfort features, so these were the main 2 criteria. After extensive research, I narrowed down the list to: Kia Sorento, Hyundai Santa Fe, and Toyota Highlander. Personally, I preferred the Santa Fe, but there are way fewer of these on the market (we were looking for a late model lightly used vehicle to not take the big depreciation hit). So, it was between the Santa Fe and Highlander. I like the Highlander, but I was able to get a newer Sorento with less miles and more features.

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  Great Car - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By Waylo - January 11 - 2:00 am

  I did much research on SUVs before going and trying out the Sorento, It is far and away the best deal on the market. When you drive it, the solidness is evident. I have recommended this car to my friends.

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  tuned by porsche - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By lillexus - January 11 - 2:00 am

  Look at some of the awards this guy has gotten and you get a feel for the content. KIA uses the same high quality components as the big boys. Borg Warner, Eaton, Bosch,etc. Suspension tuned by Porsche. Carbon fiber differential. One magazine has the 0-60 times at 8.23 seconds in their own tests. They think the stated horespower is artificially low. Plus the styling.

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  Its just ok - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By LoreB - January 10 - 1:00 pm

  I fell in love with the exterior look of the Kia Sorento, which clouded my ability to like any other SUV in its class. I like my Kia, but wish I had been more selective, and taken more time looking. It drives nice enough, has enough power, but, the back seat is cramped. I wish I could mention the dealership where I bought this SUV. I would not recommend it! Test drive the Mazda Tribute or the Hyundai Santa Fe. I should have considered one of these two.

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  awesome car!!! - 2016 Kia Sorento
  By Dan - January 8 - 11:18 am

  I must say, i own this car for over 1 year now and I have no complaints about it. I have a little over 12000 miles and no problems at all with the car. My wife and I like to take weekend trips all the time and we are always pleased with the smooth drive and the comfort. If you think to get one dont hesitate go for it. Is definitely worth the money!!!!

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  Sorento is the SUV to choose! - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By Graham, S.E. - January 5 - 2:00 am

  I researched the market before deciding on purchasing the Sorento. I was initially attracted by the sleek design and the fact that it looks like my dream vehicle the Lexus RX 300 (which by the way I can not afford). But the Sorento was a better value for the price anyway. It handles well, looks darn good (an eye-catcher), is very spacious, and is easy on the wallet. Overall, I love the vehicles sporty, but classy, look.

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  Sensational!! - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By MSJ - December 31 - 10:00 am

  This vehicle is the complete package. There is nothing about it I dont like. Fuel economy...Its an SUV, get over it! Interior appointments rival vehicles much more expensive. The 6 CD changer that is all fed into the dash is great! The turning radius is outstanding. The feel of the Sorento is one of confidence that begs you to test its limits. Nothing but acolades from everyone who has seen it or rode in it. I would recommend this SUV to anyone in the market for this style of vehicle. Hats off tho KIA, reliability will be the true test of this vehicles reputation and that will only come with putting on the miles.