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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  Cold blooded comments - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By totief - December 24 - 4:53 pm

  I bought my Sorento in September, 2003. Before that, I owned a Vitara V6. Much less roomy but reliable. Sorento is what it looks: a fine SUV. Plenty of room for five adults, and its drive is very smooth and comfortable. Speaking of room, I travelled in the back seat of a Grand Cherokee Overland (costs 81,000 euros) and Im happy I own the Sorento (costs 40.000 euros in Greece). Cruising even with 100 mph is effortless and reassuring. Enough power to move approx. 2 tons. True off road capability, couldnt ask for more. Lets not forget, its a luxurious SUV, not a "tool". Everybody complains about gas mileage. What other cars with 3,5 L engines have SIGNIFICANTLY better mileage?

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  Second One Is Better - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By ggd71 - December 23 - 1:33 pm

  This is our second Sorento -- the first one did not last 1000 miles! The words they used were misbuilt and electrical nightmare! I called the dealer, and 16 hours later I had a brand new Kia! Hats off to the dealership -- the second one is great. No complaints yet. We looked at other SUVs. This one was in our price range and with three kids it is very roomy.

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  Kia got it right ... - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By Fish - December 23 - 2:00 am

  Ill have to admit, this vehicle had fit perfectly into what I had wanted in my new vehicle. Its fun and easy to drive. Its quiet on the highway, and the handling, accelleration, and braking are all excellent for a 2+ ton SUV. The ride is just a little stiffer than Id have liked, and the gas mileage leaves a lot to be desired, but bang for your buck, this thing is first rate.

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  Two at a Time - 2017 Kia Sorento
  By John Stumpf - December 21 - 4:31 am

  Love the new 2017 Sorento. We now own two Sorentos and have been thoroughly pleases. The 1st ones features and dependability is the reason we purchased the 2nd one. Would recommend this vehicle highly.

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  My sassy AWD SX Limited 2016 Kia Sorento - 2016 Kia Sorento
  By Dick - December 13 - 9:26 am

  I have never purchase a new vehicle so quickly. I have been driving a 2010 SRX Cadillac Premium Collection for five years. Who would have ever thought I would buy a KIA SUV?! I went to the dealership to drive the Volvo (which I literally hated) but I had done some internet research on the 2016 Sorento so when the salesman said you really need to drive the Sorento, I said ok. Thats all it took, I fell in love with this automobile. The quality of the interior with its Napa Leather and the ease of the instrument panel and the large viewing screen and the beauty of the drive won me over at once. Now all I had to do was decide just what I wanted and the trim package, the color Titanium was a given. Well I wanted it all ....a SX Limited. The dealership had to locate one in Missouri. It was exactly what I wanted color trim etc., and lo and behold when it arrived it had several other perks, like a tow package, gorgeous side steps, remote start, cross bars and several niceties. People said you are going from a Cadillac to a Kia and my reply is hell yes.....it truly is a much better car, much more comfortable, the seats are the most comfortable I have ever had and the black and white interior is stunning.....people cant get over the look and quality. The visibility out the front windshield is vast with very minimal blind spots. There are so many bells and whistles on this car I couldnt begin to comment on all. Lets just say, its right up there with the Lincoln MKX (much cheaper), BMW, and other luxery vehicles. I read this was Kias goal to put forth an SUV that would possibly attract these luxury car drivers to the new Sorento and yes thats exactly what is happening. I have been driving mine for two weeks and Im still so much in love with its gorgeous body stye and all its safety and wonderful amenities along with the quite, high quality interior. The ease of the voice activated navigation and the very simple bluetooth hands free telephone along with the Xeon lighting, the full panoramic sun roof, the roomy storage, the thrill of having an actual spare tire (Cadillac had a pump), the very peppy takeoff and getaway, the quietness of the ride on highway and the nifty red and blue lights on the interior at night make this very quick purchase of the 2016 Sorento one of the happiest and best decisions Ive ever made.

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  GREAT BUY ! - 2007 Kia Sorento
  By JCR - December 6 - 10:53 am

  Very nice car, its really fast and powerfull. Comfortable for long drives. Smooth ride. A little thirsty. Great audio system.

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  my new sorrento - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By CharlesK - December 6 - 10:00 am

  Comfortable fun to dive. I love it!!

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  Extreme Disappointment - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By R. Effingham - December 4 - 10:00 am

  Reading these reviews is like listening to myself complain about this car. I have paint peeling off the roof & mirros, my sunroof wont close properly, I have rust on the trunk, Ive replaced two back lights & one front, currently have coolant leaking so heater wont work, have had a/c recharged & again its not working, light on radio and clock go out, bent steering shaft, and many other little items. Very disappointed, and if I thought I could get what I owed Id walk away. But cant imagine anyone would pay what I owe for whats left of the car. After replacing the coolant reservoir my next expense will be to have the rust spots repaired. Fun. fun.

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  Kia Sorento Three Years Later - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By lad3 - December 3 - 6:44 pm

  I have had the Sorento for 3 years now and wanted to share my experience. It has been a great car. I have almost 50K now and I have not had any problems with the car. Very reliable. With the V6 the car has plenty of power for when you need it. The ride is very comfortable. After I bought it I immediately took it to a road trip from DC to Maine and back. I really had to use the cruise control because otherwise I would easily increase my speed to 80 MPH or more without even noticing it. I like the interior design and the controls. Overall, I am very happy that I purchased the Kia Sorento. Great car, great value.

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  The best 4wd SUV - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By Family Vehicle - November 23 - 2:00 am

  This is the best vehicle I have ever owned. I always have people coming up to me and asking how I like It. I tell them I dont like I love it. If you own this vehicle you would understand what I was saying....VERY VERY HAPPY..This vehicle is the same as the Lexux LS300, but $20.000 less..oops that doesnt make it the same it makes it better.I would definatly recomend this vehicle to anybody..............Don (Long Island)