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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  wow! - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By KAREN - August 30 - 2:00 am

  You get so much for your money! It is really amazing.

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  Best Midsize SUV on the Market - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By rphlegar - August 30 - 2:00 am

  I have owned my Sorento for three months now, and the only bad thing I have to say about it is that it doesnt get good gas mileage. The ride is excellent and the design is very good. Add to that the warranty that comes with it and the amount you pay for it, and I think you will find that this is the best Midsize SUV on the market.

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  pleased - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By mouse3458 - August 30 - 2:00 am

  I totally love my Kia Sorento! Its comfortable and easy to drive. I love how high up it sits, shifts smoothly, and the room inside for us long legged people!!

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  My first Kia - 2006 Kia Sorento
  By L - August 28 - 4:50 pm

  This is my first Kia and I really like the Sorento EX. I heard pros and cons about the Kia Sorento when I was shopping around, but after comparing several SUVs, I like the interior and exterior design of the Sorento the best. We travel a lot and the ride is very comfortable and its fun to drive!

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  My Kia - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By bobtutton - August 27 - 6:56 pm

  If only the fuel economy was a bit better, but it is still the best vehicle Ive owned. Lots of bells and whistles, great off road ability and just plain fun to drive. The great warranty, free oil changes for life, [only in Canada you say, O Canada] and a dealership that is great has made this the best I have ever experianced in the buying and owning of any auto.

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  My Kia - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By Lore - August 17 - 7:23 am

  I like my Kia, but I do not love my Kia. I went from an Expedition to a Sorento, so it was quite the shocker. It drives nice, but has an extremely uncomfortable back seat. Hard to get in and out of the back seat. The front seat isnt so roomy either. It drives nicely, and has plenty of power, but next time Id opt for a larger SUV. Gas mileage is mediocre.

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  Kia Sorento - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By Sunshine State - August 13 - 6:20 am

  We got one of the first LX 6s, it has much more power than the 4 banger. It handles great and comes with rear A/C. It comes with third row seats which are too small and if used there is almost no rear cargo room. However, when not used there is plenty of cargo space. Quality and build are excellent & power train seems flawless. Drives a bit choppy on rough roads but very smooth and quiet otherwise (has 18 inch tires). So far gas mileage is close to sticker and we use A/C most all the time. You get a great deal of standard features for the price and its made in the USA. Got it for my wife but after my first drive I wanted to keep it for myself. Our last SUV was a gas guzzler.

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  20,000 miles and loving it more - 2012 Kia Sorento
  By flyboy80 - August 7 - 5:36 pm

  Been trouble free, fun to drive, extremely agile in traffic. Meets or exceeds advertised performance numbers. Acceleration and braking awesome. Fuel mileage 30 to 35 MPG (Imperial) in county/town, and 35 to 40 on freeway at 62 to 65 mph, depending on wind. One days travel actually 625 miles on tank (15 IMP). We know there have been economy problems with some models, but not this one. Ride is firm, but offset by great control in turns and winding roads. V6 is the way to go. Best weve owned.

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  For the price, cant beat it - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By ROLOH - August 6 - 10:00 am

  Well folks I read all the reviews here when I went to look at it and was very impressed. Most everyone loved it! Test drove a second time and was sold. Plenty of power, great ride, looks great, drives great, and saves me $100 bucks a month over my previous car the grand cherokee, with a fantastic waranty. I have never had so many people stop me to ask about the car I was driving.

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  Great SUV Except Serious Steering Issue - 2017 Kia Sorento
  By JAL - August 4 - 3:48 pm

  Love the car except for one important issue - the new electric steering system is lousy. We had a 2016 Sorento SXL for only 5 mos. before that was totaled when a driver ran a stop sign. We replaced with 2017 Sorento SXL ONe of the key decisions on the 2016 KIA was the great steering system. Unfortunately, the steering in the 2017 vehicle is a major disappointment. KIA changed the steering in the 2017 vehicle (upper level models) to an electric steering system. The new system lacks any "road feel". Furthermore, one is constantly making minor steering adjustments which is annoying at a minimum, but is dangerous if you look away for an quick look at something as the car immediately starts to wander. The dealer confirmed today that they are aware of the problem but there is no fix available to date. Hopefully there will be an updated software package in the future to correct the problem; however, until a fix is available, I do not recommend purchasing the SX or SXL!