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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  2006 KIA Sorento - 2006 Kia Sorento
  By Claudia - May 19 - 12:46 pm

  Thanks for such a great SUV. I love to drive my KIA. It handles very well on curves. I like the room it has inside for my family, yet it feels like a smaller SUV. I has a good ride and is comfortable on long trips.

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  2 years - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By jc - May 14 - 10:23 am

  I have had this vehicle for over 2 years and could not be more satisfied with its quality. It has a great towing capacity for its size, its rear wheel drive, and the interior is holding up great. The only down size is the gas mileage, but its worth the extra fuel cost to have such a great sturdy vehicle.

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  One year follow up - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By cgladdue - May 12 - 11:33 am

  It has been a year,14k miles, since buying the Sorento. The car was amazing up until 6,000 miles and 5 service notifications later. We have had service letters for everything from electrical wiring to replacing every light bulb from bumper to bumper. Granted KIA has been great about fixing everything but a new car should never need a new transmission at 7k miles. Even with the new transmission we still have issues with putting the car into reverse and some random rpm surges while driving. We are also experiencing excessive raddeling in the interior and wearing of plastic components. We are chalking this up to the fact that this was one of the first Sorentos off the line, growing pains.

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  First time Kia owner - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By Charles Xikes - May 12 - 9:53 am

  I was a little unsure when I bought my Sorento but it has turned out to be a very good vehicle. Since purchase we have only had a headlight adjusted, nothing else. Value, features, styling, fit. quality materials are all there for thousands less than most other comparable SUVs. I would not hesitate to buy another.

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  I Love my Sorento! - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By tysmommy030502 - May 11 - 12:03 am

  I cant believe how impressed I am with my Kia Sorento. Its low priced, and I thought surely we were getting suckered, but after 6 months of driving it, and 3 long trips later, I am so pleased. You can fit 3 full-sized car seats in the backseat and theres room for all 3 to be hooked up to LATCH. And you can lock the windows, so 3 year olds cant throw stuff out while youre not looking. Side impact beams and side curtain airbags help my peace of mind as well, and when you really need to cram stuff in for a trip, this car (SUV, whatever) sure can take it. It will also hold 3 diaper bags, I double stroller and a regular umbrella stroller with no problem. AND theres a luggage rack too.

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  Best bang for the buck - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By Spazzo - May 10 - 9:26 am

  I tried nearly all of the top 10 cross- over vehicles before purchasing the 2011 Sorento. I felt that the Sorento was by far the best overall value for the money and I still feel the same way after driving it for 3 months. I got the V6 EX AWD pretty much loaded, (NAV, voice activated controls, premium sound system, leather, ambient lighting, panoramic sunroof, 3rd row seating) and to make a similarly equipped purchase from any other maker would have cost me nearly $10K more. Plenty of power, nice ride, comfortable interior, responsive handling, and very respectable mileage for a V6 AWD. Only time will test out the reliability but the best-in-class warranty should help with that

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  Kia? Thats right. - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By cheeks - May 4 - 1:36 pm

  Just purcahsed this vehicle this week and I have to say I never thought about Kia. I wanted a new 4Runner, but I could not get any kind of deal, but sticker plus. I was on the way home when I remembered that the Sorento redisgn for 2011 was to be released so I stop in and took one for a test drive. I am on the road about 40k miles a year for work and need a functional vehicle which will allow me to carry some samples and equipment. The one thing I love about this CUV is that it is large. I opted for the stogage in the back and no third row seating option. I have the 4 cylinder and will average about 24-25 in mixed driving. There are a lot of options for your money, great value. 0%/48.2.9%/60

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  auto critic - 2016 Kia Sorento
  By Richard Kalinowski - April 25 - 2:19 pm

  i purchased a 2014 Sorento v6, and drove it for over a year, and really enjoyed the vehicle. Then i saw the lines on the 2016, and thought it was a big improvement on style, so I traded up. First time I used the GPS it took me to the wrong location. I also found that the font size could not be changed on the Navigation, and a lot of the street names did not appear, so it was a big mistake paying for that feature. I also liked the blind spot lights on the mirrors, but in 2016 they are smaller, and dimmer, and in sunlight almost useless. I could not believe that something that worked so well was changed drastically on the 2016. I mentioned this to Kia by phone, and the attitude was very poor. I did get the 4 with turbo, which is ample for me, but like someone else mentioned, the mileage is not that much better then the 6. The only other problem that has happen twice, is after starting the car, radio would not work, until you stopped the engine, and restarted. I have not had time to check with the dealer on that issue yet, but will on next visit. Yes on a long trip this summer, it was a pleasure to drive across the country.

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  I love my Kia, BUT it has its problems - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By Gayle W. - April 21 - 2:03 am

  Ive had very little problems with my Kia, minor things at first which were fixed under warranty. My complaint is the rotors went out at 27,K miles, I dont think this is NORMAL. I had them turned, but it didnt help, so I had to get new ones, cost me almost $500.00 to get this fixed. The old ones are all rusty looking and Im upset. Im going to contact Kia and complain.I also have terrible paint chips which seem to happen over night, my fenders look bad.Its as though the paint is "soft". I think Ill complain about that too. My Dad was a mechanic so, I do understand the general workings of a auto.

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  Love My Sorrento - 2006 Kia Sorento
  By Steve - April 19 - 9:16 am

  I bought this as a demo, with 12000m. I love it and only a few minor problems the dealer dealt with. Fun factor of 12 out of 10. Front brakes will need to be turned at 15000m. Keep that in mind.