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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  love my sorento - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By alice ann - April 5 - 10:00 am

  very comfortable ride, fun to drive, love the interior, the stereo has a great sound...good gas mileage, 19 in town..21 on highway

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  My KIA - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By Kevin Bostwick - April 5 - 10:00 am

  It has the best look of all Mid-size SUVs. I believe the engine is well matched to the vehicle. Great vehicle for the money

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  SOLID SUV - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By nick777 - April 5 - 10:00 am

  A VERY SOLID CAR TO DRIVE. I FEEL VERY SAFE INSIDE THIS SUV. IT LOOKS GREAT ON THE INSIDE AND OUTSIDE. IM STILL FINDING FEATURES I DIDNT KNOW IT HAD. LOTS OF PLACES TO STORE STUFF. POWERFUL 6 CYLINDER ENGIN THAT CAN KEEP PACE WITH TRAFFIC ON THE INTERSTATE..TERIFFIC FIELD OF VISION FROM THE DRIVERS SEAT...

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  DAMN GOOD - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By DHULL - April 5 - 10:00 am

  THIS SUV IS RUN TO DRIVE AND PLENTY OF ROOM. THE LX MODEL IS A BETTER VALUE THEN THE EX MODEL. WE ARE QUITE PLEASED WITH THSUV

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  Fun and Safe - 2006 Kia Sorento
  By Louis - April 2 - 10:46 am

  I have had my Sorento EX for 5 months with no problems. Great for mountains or anywhere but I do not off road. High winds and big trucks passing, no problems. Gas mileage 20 in town and up to 25 on the highway. Comfort great, looks great, rides great. Placement of cup holders just right. No complaints.

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  Very Nice SUV - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By mememe - March 28 - 2:00 am

  Great suv, fun to drive and loaded. This compares to the Lexus and Acura at a much smaller sticker price.

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  Very Nice SUV - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By Stringmusic - March 28 - 2:00 am

  Great suv, fun to drive and loaded. This compares to the Lexus and Acura at a much smaller sticker price.

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  100,000 miles in and alls well - 2008 Kia Sorento
  By kudosk9 - March 25 - 3:44 pm

  Now that Ive written this review everythings probably going to go the heck. I purchased this brand new, off the lot, with less than 100 miles on the clock. It now has over 100K. This car has been a solid work horse for me. Ive had to have it in for just one service that I wouldnt be considered wear and tear, and that was when a sensor went out at about 4mon and essentially meant the gas pedal wouldnt work. Apart from that, its been the usual things that happen to a 6 year old car that has 100k on the clock.

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  My charcoal love - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By silkyt673 - March 14 - 6:06 pm

  I love this car. I have had it for two years and have not had one problem with it. Its versatile. I take it camping and sleep in the back. My father whos 62" and 340 fits comfortably in the back seat. There is nothing bad about this vehicle. I had a Toyota for 10 years prior to this vehicle and so far this one is just as reliable and comfortable.

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  Garbage - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By Joe - March 10 - 8:53 pm

  I own a 2003 Kia sorento and it is garbage. I cant count how many times I have had to replace a headlamp. The clock resets constantly on its own. I have blown fuses galore. Changing the rotors is impossible unless you own or can get your hands on a impact wrench. And most of all, their Service dept. has been horrible, rude and deceiving. Dont waste you money. I get 17mpg gallon highway at 65mph if I am lucky. And yes, I have completed all their recommended, bogus service schedules. I hate it. Hope I save somebody the headache of owning a pile of junk like this. 100,000 mile warranty is a joke. Be careful