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:

• 

  Warning Dont buy this vehicle - 2017 Kia Sorento
  By Terri Q - October 31 - 6:00 am

  This Sedona did not come with your safety and comfort in mind. First of all you cannot have the recirculated air on at the same time as your fan. So you have to endure car exhaust fumes if you take any trip. Second which is even worse, the seats are uncomfortable for traveling and there is no remedy for that because you cannot use a cushion or seat cover. If you use a seat cover or a thin pad, no matter how much you weigh it turns off your airbags making your safety at risk. This was not a smart deal. I called Kia to find out how to turn the airbag on at all times. They said you will just have to live with it.

• 

  Lexus? - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By ken10 - October 30 - 10:00 am

  No its a Kia Sorento! for the Past 3 years I have drove a 1999 Lexus Rx300, decided in stead of trading it in for another Lexus RX330 at 41000, I opted for the Kia Sorento 4x4 ex luxury Package for 27,500 fully loaded! It rides if good or not better than my Lexus RX300. With the money I saved I am driving my Kia Downtown!

• 

  Electronics a problem - 2017 Kia Sorento
  By Thomas Ewell - October 25 - 11:45 pm

  The BSD console has a problem and it does not register in the cars computer. The manufacturer is reluctant to repair it. We will return the car under the Lemon law after 3 months if they refuse to repair it.

• 

  Great Bargain - 2009 Kia Sorento
  By Judy - October 24 - 4:33 pm

  I purchased my 2009 Kia Sorento just one week ago. What a great SUV for the price. I really thought that I would not be able to afford another SUV, but the pricing on this vehicle was great. Fun to drive, easy handling, and great look. I cant say enough about this vehicle. For under $20,000 you get a lot of truck.

• 

  Love my KIA - 2017 Kia Sorento
  By Joseph Mitchell - October 23 - 10:20 pm

  This 2017 KIA replaces my 2012 KIA and is much improved over the 2012. The 2012 is the very first 4 cylinder that I had ever purchased and it exceeded my expectations for performance particularly speed increase. The 2017 is every bit as good if not better.

• 

  Problems after purchase - 2007 Kia Sorento
  By SANDY - October 23 - 7:03 am

  The looks of my Kia attract a lot of comments from people. Its black-two tone & sharp. All in all I will never buy a Kia again, looks are not everything. I have had numerous probs from transmission to the smell of antifreeze in the cab. I had to have the rotors replaced after 27K miles. The transmission was shifting incorrectly 3 months after purchase, I purchased it with 11 miles on the odometer, brand new.The smell of antifreeze was so strong it was making me sick. The serv dept told me there was nothing wrong with the car but the last time I took it in for this smell they finally did something, I have not smelled it since.

• 

  Never again - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By Cricket - October 22 - 5:03 am

  Every month has been problems & when you try to trade it - be sitting down because you wont get offered much. The last time I handed the dealership the keys & said just pay it out & Ill leave - THEY didnt want it - what does that tell you! I bought it fully loaded with all the bells & spent a lot in add ones - which as long as it doesnt move it looks really pretty. At 32,000 km the tranny started on fire while pulling my new trailer that was rated 8000 pounds less then what the Kia is to be able to haul. This was the 1st new vehicle Ive every bought & I kick myself every day for doing it.

• 

  Love my Kia - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By sandy littiken - October 18 - 2:00 am

  I purchased my Kia a year ago and have loved it ever since, it is a great car and handles great on the road, I have never has one problem with it. I have 4 kids and they were all with me when I bought it and they love it too. The all fit in it and are comfortable. Some times I let my husband drive it.

• 

  Buy one while theyre still cheap - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By TL - October 17 - 9:40 pm

  Best highway mileage 22.5 from RI to PA. Average mixed highway/city 18mpg. Worst mileage 15 - I drove it hard off every light, ramp etc. I have averaged as high as 60,000 miles per year, driving mostly GM vehicles. You cant compare this to a Trailblazer, its twice as nice at half the price. The $20,000 I saved buys a lot of gas. Mines a fully loaded EX with almost every aftermarket option Kia offers. Plenty of torque, power to spare. This car wants to run. Baby the pedal on take-offs, let the transmission do the work. Back off on the gas pedal just before it shifts for a little for a smoother shift and watch the gas mileage climb too.

• 

  Good product for the money. - 2007 Kia Sorento
  By Not what I expected - October 13 - 3:00 am

  I am an automotive officer for a credit company. Ill tell you, I dont believe I could have purchased a better SUV for the money. Price! Value! Appeal!