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 leap of faith to KIA - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By WJM - March 3 - 6:36 pm

  Owned Toyotas and Hondas, liked new design enough to try the KIA brand. Have had for 2 weeks, so far lots to like. Feels different than past cars owned, not quite as "refined" in spots, but makes up for it with overall design execution.

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  2005 Kia Sorento LX - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By danielle - March 1 - 10:50 pm

  I absolutely fell in love with my car the minute I drove it off the lot. I have told everyone I know to run right out and buy one. Unfortunately my car is horrible in the winter weather. There is absolutely no traction against snow and ice. The added traction button is a false hope as well. I recently had it in for new tires and even the mechanic said its not the tires, its the car itself. I hope that in the near future a 4x4 will handle the snow better because I would like to buy another one when my lease is up. But I am highly against anyone getting a 2wd unless you live in warm sunny weather 24-7.

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  love my kia - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By carol - March 1 - 7:33 am

  I love this suv, it is fun to drive and comfortable. Lots of value here, love the warranty!

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  debbieg - 2007 Kia Sorento
  By debbieg4 - March 1 - 12:50 am

  Am surprised ratings are as low as they are. We like our Kia.

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  Love my kia - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By chris - February 28 - 8:20 pm

  I traded my Kia Sportage for a Kia Sorento. It was the best choice that I made. The Sorento has more space and storage. Very comfortable. Its easy to handle on the road and has a lot of power. Everything you need while driving is easy to reach. It looks great and drives great!

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  Wish I had read the reviews - 2008 Kia Sorento
  By lsunburst - February 22 - 9:05 pm

  I bought a used Sorento with low miles a little less than a year ago. The car has been in the shop for a faulty transmission sensor 3 times without much of an explanation from the service department (the positive is all repairs have been covered under warranty). I wish I had read the reviews before purchasing, as the HARD shift and the passenger air bag comments would have alerted me I might not be happy with the choice. I have lost my faith in this car due to the transmission issues, and am looking at trading it in.

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  Loving My Kia - 2006 Kia Sorento
  By Becca - February 21 - 8:33 am

  We traded a F150 pickup for this Sorento for me to take care of "Mom" duty. I have come to love it. I use to have anxiety about driving, not now! I can fit so much stuff inside that suv. I put a basketball goal in back. We fit two households of shopping plus two adults and three kids. I have found that there is nothing standing in my way. It is sporty, fun, and NOT TOO big for me to park! Driving an automobile that was too large for me had really robbed me of the freedom of driving. I would come home with tension headaches. Now I love to drive and feel that makes driving safer. Thanks Kia, I feel like my Sorento was custom made for me and my life! And It isnt a minivan. GREAT!

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  Love IT - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By Boopy - February 19 - 8:23 pm

  I travel at least 100 miles per day and this SUV is comfortable and reliable and consumes less gas than most SUVs on the market.

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  very excellent car - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By sophielove - February 16 - 10:00 am

  car is really a great family car. low on gas usage and just a smooth driving vehicle that will be good for a family.

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  2006 Kia Sorento review - 2006 Kia Sorento
  By Ken - February 9 - 2:56 am

  My 06 Kia Sorento was the first NEW vehicle I had ever purchased. I figured with the used cars and trucks in the past, I had been spending too much in repairs. With the warranty of the Kia 10 yr/100,000 mile how could I go wrong? So far Ive driven 51,000 miles in my Sorento and other than regular oil changes and tire rotations Ive not had 1 problem. The gas mileage could be a little better, but I get 19-20 mpg in the city. I think most who claim poor mileage could be due to poor driving habits. Also my Sorento in a manual. I would suggest you check out the Kia Sorento if you are looking for a mid sized SUV!