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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  Great Kia Sorento - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By Joncab5 - March 11 - 1:50 pm

  I cant believe I own a Kia Sorento, but I do. It is Made in the USA (Georgia) in a brand new plant. It has good fuel economy and nice features. 3rd row seating in the event you need it. I did not want to buy a minivan and I did not want a huge American SUV. The Kia Sorento is the perfect solution, especially the price is great too. I am not a snob, but I have only owned MBZ, Porsche, Lexus, and Toyota in the past. Kia is very new for me, but so far, so good. Great value for the money. Just go buy one, dont be shy, gets better gas mileage than most vehicles in its class.

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  My Baby Sorento - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By Norma Keys - March 11 - 5:03 am

  when i purchased my Sorento Lx w/ sports package,also keyless starting ,I was overwhelmed how it drove, the comfort and the looks.I drove up to my sons high school one day and the kids said you must be rich your mom has a Lexus...My son laughed and said no Lexus -- same quality but reasonably priced!! We took it on vacation, most comfortable drive ever.also when stopping at stop lights I enjoy watching people look at it and then they will say nice vehicle. Of course the running boards and all sports options really help.. I love my lil Black Beauty

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  Dont make a mistake - 2006 Kia Sorento
  By pmjudianne - March 9 - 2:08 pm

  Had to replace headlights frequently and out of nowhere it started clicking in the motor. We called the local Kia dealer in Lufkin and they told us that sometimes a lifter gets stuck and just to put in "SeaFoam" oil. We did and the sound just got louder, we called again, the car had only 73000 miles and they repeated that there was nothing to worry about and just to "rev" the motor and it would work its way loose. One week later the car was still clicking and we called again, the mechanic said we would have to just give the oil time to work. We did just what they said and the motor froze up. Then we found out they would not honor the warranty because we were not the original owners.

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  Very pleased - 2012 Kia Sorento
  By par18 - March 4 - 6:36 pm

  Just purchased my Sorento two weeks ago and although new, Im very pleased with my purchase. The most common complaints that Ive read are ride firmness and mileage. While I agree that the ride is a bit firmer than I like, the trade-off is better handling...less sway, roll and pitch. I got the six cylinder because I wanted more power (I live in Colorado and glad I did). While people complain about the poor mileage, Ive owned a number of six cylinder vehicles in the past and the Sorento mileage is about the same - 300+ miles per tank of city driving. Beyond that, this KIA drives, looks and handles like CUVs for thousands more! Im VERY happy with the looks and feel - a great value!!!

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  Happy with Mine - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By devilchick - March 3 - 2:16 am

  Im VERY happy with my Sorento. It has all the features I was looking for including my creature comforts and I am a picky person. It has great pick up, cruises nicely & handles well. "On the fly 4WD" is easy to use. Back seat is roomy & comfortable. I have had no problems with it at all in 17 months of ownership. Wish the gas mileage was a bit better. Im getting about 19 highway which is where they rated it. I have long legs; when I position the seat back I feel too far from the steering wheel. Would like more adjustment there. Due to the many passenger air bags they didnt leave room to get your hand behind the sunvisor easily to bring it down. Surprised I dont see more of these on the road!

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  well worth the money - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By justjim - March 2 - 6:36 am

  A lot of extras on a highly capable 4x4 for a very good price. A Lexus 330 for at least $10,000 less. And a great warranty.

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  Will never buy another Kia - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By Artouchette - February 28 - 1:16 pm

  Bought my 2004 Kia Sorento used in July 09. Had the bolt drop off three times, since. First two, it was under warranty. Shortly after the second fix by Sports Auto World in Bourne, it developed a new symptom, a burning smell. Took the car to the dealer, he was gone. (along with $1500 for an extended warranty that he never bought) Executive Kia, in New Bedford, MA took it in, and now, it was the Main Gasket?? I asked about the bolt issue, they assured me it was "fine." It died 3 days later. They claim they didnt touch it. Not under warranty. Too bad. I havent even had the car a full year! Replacing Bolt repeatedly is not reasonable expense.

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  My wife and I are in love... with our Kia Sorento SX! - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By vara411 - February 28 - 3:29 am

  My wife and I are extremely happy with our white pearl 2011 Kia Sorento SX. The V6 engine is best in class and doesnt chug gas so long as you drive conservatively mixed city/hwy. We had looked at the Mazda CX-9 but it was too large, expensive, and thirsty on the gas. The Sorento on the other hand is the perfect size for many families and a great value, even in its top-of-the-line SX trim. The dual flow damper shocks on the SX give the car a sporty ride thats only occasionally jittery on rough roads. This car is seriously one of the best buys we have made in a long while. I would highly, highly recommend it.

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  Never dreamed Id own a Kia! - 2014 Kia Sorento
  By ffc27 - February 20 - 6:41 pm

  Pros: I wanted an SUV with leg room (Im 511) and enough room for my 4 year old in her car seat to have enough leg room. The Sorento does not disappoint!! Its rare when I have to move my seat forward to drive comfortably, and in the Sorento, I have to do just that! I also wanted decent MPG and AWD. Hard to find in the same vehicle. Ive gotten as good as 26.9 MPG on the freeway pushing 80 MPH through a whole tank. I average 20-21 MPG in town. Cons: -The 4cyl is gutless -Third row is not an aftermarket option - I got this car with hopes of adding because AWD and 3rd row are hard to find. -headlights could afford to be brighter. The line where the light ends is frustrating.

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  Two Warnings - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By D McClure - February 18 - 12:00 am

  I bought my 2011 Sorento with 18k on it in 2013. It has been a great car for the past three years. This year it was at just over 90k. I have always done everything I am supposed to. Plus I am a slow accelerator, typically I cruise at 2000 RPM in the city and 2500 on the highway not passing 3000 during acceleration. Then last month I heard a god awful metal sheering sound and the car skidded to a halt. Had it towed to the mechanic and was told the cylinder tubes had corroded and the cylinder heads were shifting and scraping the sides and that the engine could no longer be started. Cost for a used engine with the same amount of miles is right around $4500. If I want a re-manufactured one it is even more. Warranty is not an option because it cancels at 5/60 on used purchases. What is worse to me is a I still owe $14k. I did some research and it looks like this is a common problem in 2011 and 2012 Sorentos. I had planned on buying a Kia again in the future but I think I will stick to brands I have had good experiences with. I dont know if I will repair it at some point or turn it into a $14k paper weight. I would steer clear!