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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  Very Nice SUV - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By llvdrivers - July 18 - 2:00 am

  This is the best car I have owned in over 40 years of auto ownership. It is well equipted, well built, and fun to drive. We really like the all wheel drive in Northern Oregon both summer and winter. Will be back when this one wears out.

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  my car - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By tytu - July 18 - 2:00 am

  i have this kia sorento and its the perfect suv, it comes with an excellent warranty and there has been no problems with this suv since i had it. it so comfrotable and affordable, it looks sheek and is very rideable, had great pick up and very roomy,

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  A very impressive vehicle - 2014 Kia Sorento
  By rcf8000 - July 11 - 7:35 am

  Here is my report card for my SXL FWD after three weeks of ownership: Excellent: Power train refinement; nav/entertainment/climate controls and displays; blindspot alert; sunroof; rear view camera; build quality Very Good: Steering (NORMAL setting); braking; ride; handling; styling; drivers seat comfort; noise levels Good: Front passenger seat comfort; second row seat comfort; front seat access; instrument panel displays; gas mileage: 20.7 mpg (suburban driving, calculated; instrument panel display read 22.2 mpg) Fair: Third row seat comfort, for persons 5 ft 10 in tall or smaller, on short trips; third row access Unknown: reliability (no repairs have been needed so far)

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  2005 Kia Sorrento, Cant beat it - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By k carr - July 9 - 10:23 pm

  Great car. Interior design is sturdy and practical. Have 4 kids made to fit for my family. Exterior very nice looking and many extras for not much money. Rough ride on dirt and bumpy roads but good trade off for other comforts of car. Excellent warranty. I liked the 3 tone EX, leather seats make it even nicer. Has nice features that were well thought out, Enjoy driving this SUV; it does drive very smooth on the open road (maybe top smooth, received several tickets lately). Will stick with this SUV for a long time. Very satisfied.

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  NOT for long haul commuters! - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By sorefoot - July 9 - 8:40 am

  purchased this vehicle used in 8/2007 for a 3-day a week commute 40 miles each way (80 per day). after a month my foot started bothering me. after two months i was diagnosed with a stress fracture. laid up with no driving for a few months in a cast and get 80% better. back to work and within weeks am having same pain! have determined foot pain coincides with the purchase date of car. the gas pedal is in such an awkward position that my foot has to be at an unnatural angle. 2 hours a day at the angle and well, you have an injury!

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  Very very nice crossover SUV for money - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By harry - July 5 - 6:06 pm

  Ive had my sorento for about 1 month, so far so good. Its a very solid vehicle. I test drive cr-v, gmc, Chevy etc. before I bought. I am very happy that I did not buy any of others. It has very nice interior and fun to drive.

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  Nothing but problems - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By ndskimr - July 4 - 3:29 pm

  I have had to car for one year now and everything started out great. I loved the car but as the months went on problems started to arise. First, the car would not shut off. Even when you took the key out and walked away it still ran. Kia fixed the problem, said it was a faulty break relay switch. Now the car at times will reset everything electronic and other times will not start. Kia cannot figure out the problem. The cars transmission will slip at highway speeds causing a bit of a scare. I would not really recommend this car until Kia can get these problems resolved. The car is not the most reliable at times.

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  excellent suv - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By numnum - July 2 - 10:00 am

  i have owned this vehicle for only about 6 weeks and i love it. i am anxious to see how it handles in the winter weather. i compared the sorento to other suvs, mainly the hyundai sonata. the kia offered more options and quality for the price and it is easier to drive.

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  Great Car Except..the minor NON DEPLOYING AIR BAGS - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By Whitney Alt - June 28 - 1:09 am

  I love this car. Seriously I do. Which is why I am sickened about the safety issue I have learned about with Kias air bags. I read several reviews on here before I purchased it and am disappointed none where about the air bags. My air bag light came on suddenly. Vehicle was not involved in any sort of accident. Took it in and bottom line I had to have an entire new driver side air bag and assembly replaced. When I question how the heck an air bag needs to be replaced with out being in an accident or tampered with Dealer says, "It just happens, the air bag is defective." Well I wasnt going to drive around in a vehicle whos driver side air bag was not functioning. So I coughed up $1300 to get it fixed. Figured Id go after Kia after the fact. They have told me no, and no again. One of the reps tried telling me this isnt a safety issue. Seriously? Anyways, I will get my money out of them. In the mean time a little internet research reveals several, several stories of people who did not have an air bag light on and where in roll over or other serious collisions and NO air bags deployed. Scary. Wonder if the rest of my air bags will work in a collision...?

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  From Lexus RX to Kia Sorento - 2016 Kia Sorento
  By GRANITE, STEEL, CHISELED & RIPPED - June 27 - 5:46 am

  Purchased in Dec 2015. Road trip from S/Diego to S/Francisco. Two thumbs up. Quiet smooth and comfortable. Avg 28mpg. Have the LX , ,V 6. With 290 hp, it can get up and go. Raced a Porche Cayenne for 3 miles but for smart and backed off. I COULD HAVE DUSTED HIM, but my darling wife got nervous.