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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  Hard vehicle to love. - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By Unhappy - June 3 - 2:43 am

  Electrical problems from the start that still arent addressed. Now we are into the drive train(driveshaft replacement that didnt stop the shaking). Oh boy, cant wait to try out the new rear end parts that will be going in tomorrow. Maybe not, because they may not have them by tomorrow. The paint is looking like it may go the route of blister and pop- the little rusty starbursts give this white vehicle the look of measles without previous vaccination. How can I forget the brakes all the way around at 19,000 miles. Another 10,000 miles and it was tires. All this and a disappointing 14MPG. Oh, this baby is a Lexus in disguise all right. Stay away if you want a really good car.

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  Landcruiser to Kia? 1000 mile update. - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By Gvolpe - June 1 - 10:00 am

  Went in to test drive the Sorrento, two hours later traded in my gas guzzling Landcruiser for my ex luxury package loaded silver Sorento. its been 1000 miles and so far no problems except the usual new car paranoia...parking lots, crazy drivers, etc. (dreading that first door ding) truck handles like a car, looks much nicer than the $41,000 lexus, has features that rival a Mercedes suv One note: tire pressure was 50 p.s.i. went I first bought the truck, very stiff ride. Lowered it to 30 and it rides very smooth now.

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  My Sorenta EX - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By Dixie English - June 1 - 10:00 am

  After test driving a Lexus 330 I decided to test drive the Kia Sorenta 4WD. I got all the new features plus a tow package and gold trim, side step bars heated mirrors. It looks comparative to the Lexus and it cost half as much. We LOVE it! The ride is smooth and the look is sleek. Ride is very important to me because I have had back surgery and at first was not even considering an SUV. Couldnt ask for more with the great warranty.

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  Gotta love the warranty - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By NL - May 30 - 10:50 am

  I have driven 42.000 miles in my Kia and have enjoyed most of them. The engine literally died in December and the dealer replaced it completely, zero cost to me, other than the lack of the vehicle for a month. I tow a camper with it.

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  My old Sorento! - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By Brian - May 26 - 6:33 pm

  Great SUV for the money. In its 2nd year, I did have a problem with my heater not putting out hot air, with my leather wrapped steering wheel coming unraveled, and a prong on my fuse box breaking. The dealer has been no help getting these fixed--I took it to Cartown, got a rental car, and when I came back they said it was ready to go and everything was fixed. I got home and discovered NOTHING was fixed. :( The vehicle itself has been great--you can have little problems like this with any model of vehicle. The dealership has been pretty bad.

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  Kia Sorento - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By NPierce628 - May 26 - 10:00 am

  I love my Kia Sorento. I get lots of compliments and everyone says it looks like a Lexus L300 without the high cost. I just took it on a trip up into the mountains of Tennessee and had no problems at all. It handled very well and was fun to drive up and down the mountains. There were three of us and everyone was comfortable. The Luxury Leather package is well worth the extra money.

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  A winner for the money - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By JoeD - May 23 - 12:53 am

  Rides and handles well for a medium size SUV. I disagree with those who say the 4 cyl is slow. We have no problems either in town or the mountains although mileage could be better. Lots of standard features for the money. More room than a Subaru Forester and those bring a premium price here in the NE.

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  It needs a new what??????? - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By hhbah - May 20 - 10:00 am

  At 2200 miles the engine started clicking. Took it to the dealer who said the Kia rep would need to see the car. It needed a new engine, which Kia did put in under the warranty, and provided a loaner. Never did get an answer as to what specifically was the problem or why the engine warning light did not light up. Thank god for the 5 year warranty, I think I may need it.

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  i love it - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By reiss - May 20 - 10:00 am

  i love this suv and when the time comes to purchase another, i will get another Sorento. It looks and drives like a Lexus SUV for 1/3 the price...everyone compliments me on this car. i love it.

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  Kia - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By Dave Hennion - May 20 - 10:00 am

  This is got to be one of the best suvs that i have ever bought its a blast to drive,