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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  Never Buying Kia Again! Terrible Engine, Terrible - 2013 Kia Sorento
  By Allen B. L. - September 18 - 3:23 pm

  Buyers beware - I bought a lightly used 2013 Kia Sorento LX 4cyl from a Houston, TX dealership in March, 2013. Just 2 years later, at 64,645 miles the engine unexpected seized up without any warning. The vehicle was regularly maintained and always got oil changes early or on time. I had no mechanical problems from March 2013 to June 2015 (which is laudable), but then the engine catastrophically failed. Kia Service wouldnt do anything whatsoever to help me, nor would insurance. I paid $18,000 (sticker price) for a crap car that lasted 2 years and a few months then totally failed, leaving me stranded in the middle of west Texas. They found metal shavings in my oil and indicated that a bearing in the lower engine came apart. Look this up online - MANY people have experienced just such a mishap, and a lot of them had it happen under 100,000 miles. DO NOT PUT YOUR SAFETY AND TRUST IN THIS COMPANY.

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  Problems, problems, problems - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By billg - September 18 - 3:20 am

  Let me start by saying this vehicle looks and drives nice and comes with a great warranty. The bad news is that every oil change around 3k miles it needs major repair and stays at the dealer for about a week. Leaks, 2 blown rear ends, exhaust head gasket, drive shaft, oil filter housing have all been replaced with less than 28k. It doesnt cost anything but you lose the vehicle until they can get the parts, and find time to repair it will all the others broken down.

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  1st SUV...best decision ever made - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By shawn1972 - September 16 - 2:00 am

  This is the 1st SUV I have ever owned, test drove many, but settled for the KIA becuase of all the great features for the price.

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  Sweet Ride - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By wfahey - September 16 - 2:00 am

  Without a doubt this is the smoothest riding SUV I have ever been in. I have owned a Mercedes ML320 and the Sorento is smoother. It takes rough pavement very well. The interior is well appointed and quite comfortable. This vehicle is still too new to make a comment on reliability but with a 10yr/100K mile warranty, Im not expecting any trouble. I did not opt for the Luxury package as I couldnt justify $1500 for a leather interior a 6cd changer. Is the EX worth $3000 over the LX? I think so.

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  I Love My Sorento - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By Kristine Glidden - September 16 - 2:00 am

  EX model with leather and climate control. The vehicle exceded my expectations. Fun to drive, comfortable on long trips, quiet ride, excellent sound system with a six CD changer and gas mileage on the highway came in around 30 miles to a gallon. PLUS you cant beat the warrenty, 10year/100,000miles on the vehicle itself, and the factory installed Michelins are guarenteed (for the entire time you own the vehicle, if purchased new) as well. Purchsed my second Sorento 1/2004, same EX model,simply because I wanted to add the option of heated front seats. The 2004 model seems to have a tighter suspension and rides a bit firmer which is good.

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  Bulb issues constantly - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By spiegel - September 7 - 5:03 am

  I have had my Sorento for less than 3 years now and I have had to replace 11 bulbs between the low beam, high beam, tail lights, and brake lights. Each bulb averages $35 at the dealership to replace. If it is within 1 year, they replace at no cost. Of the 11 bulbs, 9 have lasted 14 months, which is not covered by the dealership. Something has got to be wrong, and they claim nothing. BULBS DO NOT GO OUT LIKE THIS!

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  great suv - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By jrodri - September 5 - 10:00 am

  great to drive,smooth,very stable,comfortable,stylish,good over all lenth,nice height,and a very good pick up on acceleration

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  Cant say enough on how far Kias come! - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By nickelhorse221 - September 5 - 6:03 am

  Just bought my 2011 Sorento after almost 3 weeks of dealers trying to locate exactly what i wanted. (dark cherry with black interior). Absolutely love the styling and performance of the V6 engine. Quick to get up to speed and fun to drive! Go for the limited package. Its worth the extra if you ask me. Lots of fun and cool things to use! The navigation is excellent and have had no problem with the bluetooth as reported by other users. Did find that the volume control has a lot to do with the problems reported. The suspension is VERY stiff and hoping it does break in as Im reading other owners have had this problem as well. I was told to check the tire pressure!

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  2005 Kia Sorento EX - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By Chris - September 2 - 7:36 pm

  We have had our Sorento for a year and are very pleased. Considered 4-Runner, Pathfinder, Pilot, RX 330 and others. This vehicle is a very competent off roader and is very civilized on the road. I pulled a 4000-4500 pound trailer across the country with NO problems, including over the Rockies, Sierra Nevadas and the Coastal Range. Gas mileage isnt great, little things like the clock and passenger airbag sensor are also not great but the overall build quality is exceptional. Well see how the car holds up over the long run but when price is a factor this has to be the best mid-sized SUV on the market. If price isnt a factor it is still one of the best. If you are on the fence, test drive it.

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  the best suv ever - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By still luv my kia - September 1 - 6:10 pm

  I purchased my Sorento almost three years ago, and it is the best SUV I have ever bought. I get more compliments on the styling of the outside and inside. I have over 50,000 miles on it, and have not had any major problems of any kind. I am now in the process of purchasing a 2006. I have sold many Sorentos in my neighborhood. Keep up the excellent work.