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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  My KIA - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By Winddancer1 - October 12 - 2:00 am

  I love this SUV. It is a smooth, solid ride with no excessive outside noise. It has all the options I wanted, no fancy do-dads I really wouldnt use. It is the right size for hauling the grandkids around, and all their stuff; plus I can actually load it up with animal feed for our farm without it being an all day project moving the seats, etc. I do have a complaint about it however, and that is the hood has developed small spots on it that have eaten through the clear-coat. Everytime I see another Kia Sorento, I look at the hood, and theirs is that way too--same place. The dealer says I parked it under a tree--but I NEVER have.

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  Why Spend More When You Can Get More? - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By Kidfox - October 12 - 2:00 am

  If your reading this review than you must be considering on buying a Sorento. After seeing one, test driving one and also what it had to offer it made my decison alot easier. Looks like the Lexus suv but about $15k cheaper. I wanted something that my wife was comfortable driving but also the ability to do man things. We opted for the luxury package which I would suggest doing if it meets your budget. Its loaded. The ride is beautiful. Car like with a truck feel. But my biggest selling point was the Warranty. Another factor was the crash test reviews. 5 Stars. Bottom line is this. You get alot of bang for your buck. $25k with a $40K feel.

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  Best suv for the money - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By isaac boria - October 12 - 2:00 am

  The Kia Sorento EX model has turn heads. When I purchased the vehicle most people did not know much about the SUV. I have been stopped on the rode to see my Kia. Most people can not believe the Kia would make such a good looking SUV with all its features. Performance wise I give this Kia a ten. It is the most sturdy and reliable car I have ever own.

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  So far so good - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By ks_az - October 11 - 4:25 pm

  I have had my Sorento for almost a month now. I was trading in a 2004 Mitsu galant (v6), i was looking for a little bit more comfort, reliability, and functionality. I test drove many other models from both foreign and domestic makers. I am 61" and not a little guy so comfort and room were essential. I have taken a road trip that required about 6 hours of time behind the wheel and did not have an issue with the comfort. There is an odd rattle/grind when i start the v6 cold, after visiting the dealership having them inspect it the service technician told me it was normal and not to worry. The only issue is my grandparents recently bought a ford crossover, now they want trade cars.

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  Worth the wait - best non-luxury mid-size SUV value - 2012 Kia Sorento
  By mhamm - October 8 - 10:12 am

  Id been waiting for some of the updates in the 2012 Sorento specifically the 4-cyl GDI engine lifted from the Optima rated at 191 HP and 22/32mpg - I dont know of another mid-size SUV that comes close. The other feature was the availability of the DFD shocks that make a big difference in the ride, which were originally only available on the SX model. Had the SUV 24-hours now and we are very pleased.

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  very pleased KIA owner - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By wendy25 - October 7 - 10:00 am

  this is our first new and foreign vehicle ever. i was alittle skeptical but i got over that real quick when i had the vehicle for a couple of weeks. every problem i had was very minor and very well taken care of with no cost to me what so ever. would i recommend a KIA Sorento to somebody NO i would recommend one to everyone looking to buy an SUV.

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  Poor MPG - 2006 Kia Sorento
  By Judy - October 6 - 10:20 pm

  I have no problem with the car other than the MPG is really poor. I get around 16 in the City and around 21 on the Highway. With todays gas prices that hurts. It is comfortable, but wish there was more adjustment options in the driver and passenger front seats.

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  Kia Junk - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By m17921 - October 4 - 3:46 pm

  I have a 2011 Kia Sorento. It is getting the transmission replaced for the second time. It has less than 10,000 miles on it. Think twice before buying a Kia. The selling dealership fixed it the first and second time. It still wasnt right so I found another dealer to take over the warranty work. They are putting another transmission in right now. This dealer is wonderful since I didnt buy the car there. They have been better that the dealer that sold me the car. Kia looks good but, pay a little more and buy a Nissan or Toyota. Kia calls with a survey after you get an oil change to see how the service was. Once there is a bigger problem they stop calling because they dont want to hear that

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  2 questions - 2009 Kia Sorento
  By deb - October 1 - 1:03 pm

  1st question. On the window it states that the vehicle has satelite radio, i called the no on the window and it states it dosnt have it. and 2nd question. it states it has mp3 player, im not sure if this means you can only play burned discs from a mp3 player or is there a plug in for the mp3 player somewhere hidden i cant find. the book states nothing.

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  best bang for the buck - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By E.J. - October 1 - 10:00 am

  An unbelievable value. To get this many features for that price is amazing! Stylish, sporty, comfortable. Build quality and "fit and finish" are outstanding. The cargo area holds more than you think. With this warranty, how can you go wrong?