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 vehicle, Poor Gas Mileage - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By Elijah Martin - February 8 - 10:00 am

  Great styling! Beautiful. I love it! I just wish it got better gas mileage. Many standard features that I wanted... great! Handles like a dream!

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  Dont buy the 4 Cylinder - 2012 Kia Sorento
  By barbieharley - February 7 - 9:26 am

  Just bought a 2012 Sorento LX with the 2.4L 4 cylinder engine. Took it home and it drove great. It was a little sluggish compared to my 2004 Hyundai Santa Fe with the 3.5L V6 but I thought it would save on gas. I took it to work the next day and didnt even get 20 miles and it wouldnt shift out of first gear. I will be returning it within the 5 day period. Will never buy another 4 Cylinder car.

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  I love my Sorento!! - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By Joan & Loren - February 7 - 2:00 am

  After renting a Sorento while on vacation, my husband and I feel in love with it! I have always had Explorers and my husband has a Tahoe. We felt that the ride and handling of the Kia surpassed that of both of our other vehicles, especially my Explorer. Driving through the mountains with another couple, the four of us could not believe how snappy the engine was and how well the vehicle handled the curves. Our friends in the back seat were so comfortable after riding there all day and one has back problems! Also, we noticed that the four of us could easily converse due to the quiet ride. We love SUVs and this is by far the best yet!

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  In Love! - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By Young Mother - February 4 - 11:43 pm

  This vehicle is awesome! I have one with the back up camera and heated seats. Love the bluetooth. This CUV drives like a car, is quiet and comfortable. I am only 52" and I am not intimidated by it at all. The dealership was awesome and game me more for my trade in than it is worth! My kids enjoy the reclining backseats and sound system. I just got it Sat. so I cant really review reliability.

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  2011 Sorento LX - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By srj1265 - February 3 - 5:36 pm

  I have owned my Sorento for about a month. Didnt notice a real rough ride on test drive (test model had different wheels/ tires), but the ride is horrible!!! This isnt as some describe as a stiff ride, think more like a vehicle having about 120,000 miles on it right out of the gate. Actually that may be better. The DFD shocks that are fitted in the SX (now on all models?) may help a little. I will be complaining to my dealer and Kia regarding this and if unresolved I guess I will take a "bath" and trade it in for a non Kia vehicle. This may have been my worse purchase I have ever made, depending on how kia handles the situation.

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  Sold on Sorento! - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By Sold on Sorento! - January 27 - 10:00 am

  This is one great SUV! I traded my Xterra in on one, and when my wife drove it, she decided to trade her Lexus to! Most everyone here has mentioned gas mileage. My Xterra only got 15, and the Lexus was 19. The Sorento is averaging 16 around town. Another review by "Kia 4 Me" summed it up nicely. The better gas milage of the Lexus "saved" us $282 a year over the Sorento (gas here averages $1.91). But at that rate it would take just under 50 years to make up the difference! Thanks for the perspective Kia 4 Me!!!!

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  KIA Sorento SX V6 AWD is fantastic - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By RNOVAK - January 26 - 10:00 am

  This is a $50,000 MDX for $32,000. I love this vehicle. I have had it about 7 weeks and put about 1000 miles on it. i love everything about it. the complete package and 10 years 100,000 mile bumper to bumper for an extra 1300 is amazing. How can I go wrong? Handles like a car. Absolutely flies and is quiet as any car I have ever been in. Everyone I show it to is amazed with Kia.

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  Had it for a week and LOVE it! - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By VegasGirl - January 26 - 10:00 am

  Just picked up my shiny black Sorento SX and cant say enough about it. What a sharp lookin ride! LOVE IT! My dealer experience at Findlay Kia in Las Vegas was fantastic! I averaged 25 MPG this week and am quite pleased with the smooth ride; especially compared the EX V6. This car had the most bang for the buck of any car I drove. I enjoy all of the convenience features and have made good use of the dual zone climate control, my mom can freeze on her side and I can stay unfrozen on my side! I love the voice activated features, the NAV, and the back-up camera. Stereo is good too. Even though its just been a week, I am impressed every time I go for a ride. Thanks Kia

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  No More searching - Buy this car! - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By Charlie - January 26 - 10:00 am

  Ladies and Gentlemen, Like me you have read every review in the small mid size SUV category and having trouble deciding. I am so glad I chose the new Sorento. I have owned BMW, lexus, GMC. Mercedes and a range rover and this is the best car I have owned. The engine is like a Lexus, effortless from stop or in traffic. I have driven 15K miles in 6 months and besides a bad shock which was replaced in 24 hrs at no charge the car has been perfect. MPG is about 21 average with mostly city driving. The handling is like a BMW, gripes the road with no roll felt. BUY THIS CAR! Got a basic V6 for 23K, very happy.

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  Lots of Car in an Affordable Package. - 2013 Kia Sorento
  By Stacey Hamilton - January 25 - 8:52 pm

  We bought this car for our 16 year old daughter and she loves it. We got the EX package with AWD and the 6 cylinder engine. It is just the right car for a teenage driver.