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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  Pull back problems - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By syracusepro - August 8 - 2:00 am

  I love the satellite radio, the Bluetooth so I can answer my phone or make calls by name or number, speaking to the car. Manual 6 speed or auto is fine. Up and down hill support is good too. Seat heaters and sunglasses holder is a great thing to have too.

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  GOOD DEAL - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By gary strong - July 31 - 10:00 am

  I HAVE 700 MILES ON IT AND THE MILAGE IS ABOUT 18.5. BETTER THAN THE 2001 FORD ESCAPE I HAD.BUT THE ESCAPE WAS A FINE CAR ALSO THE 17000 MI. I DROVE IT. BUT I HAD TO TRADE EVERY 3 YEARS TO HAVE A WARRANTY. NOW I HAVE 1000.OOO OR 10 YRS.THATS WHAT SOLD ME.

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  I love my KIA - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By Crystal Love - July 31 - 10:00 am

  Had my KIA about a year and love it. Gives a smooth ride and gas milage isnt that bad. Looks great and I get a lot of compliments. Lots of room.

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  Kia Sorento - Great Value For The Price - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By kiaboy - July 31 - 10:00 am

  A little heavy on the MPG -- about 20 on the highway and 18 in town. Overall its a 10 compared to other SUVs Ive owned.

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  A car that gives you peace of mind! - 2016 Kia Sorento
  By Rachel - July 31 - 5:23 am

  If I told you about the past three cars I had before my Sorento, you wouldnt believe my bad luck. I still walk out of the store and thank god "Black Betty" is there to greet me. We bought this car less than two weeks before moving across country. We went with two rows. Just my husband and myself, and a bunch of fur babies. We looked at every car out there. New/used. We stayed away from anything 45k and above. We had about 10k-12k to put down. Our options were open. Initially my husband test drove the Sorento. While I was impressed/size with the appearance I was favoring the sleek and sexy body/look of the Nissan Altima. Obviously the two cars arent a like at all. We did need space. I went over the Pros and cons. Ill share them with you now. Pro: Space, the large trunk offers much more space than most SUVs without removing seats. The body is sexy, it looks nice. People are always caught off guard by the brand. The interior is really detailed. I love the two tone. Black and tan with tan seats and black carpets. Even the 4cl has some kick when you want it to move. It rides so smooth. Not as great as my Lincoln, but come on it was a Lincoln! Interface has many options to choose from Mode for gas: eco, sport, regular Ease of getting in and out. My grandmother loved how you could just slip in and out. Many options for power, you can all have your devices plugged in at once. The seats are comfortable, you dont feel stiff and unable to move freely. The backup camera, something I never thought I would use, is very useful. Leg room for passengers is always a pro. The movement of the second row allows people in the backseat to relax and not feel stuck. Gas is pretty good. We drove over 4000 miles from South Carolina to Washington State, making stops in both Arkansas, and Illinois. Thats not an easy drive in any car. With 6 animals. I wouldnt have chosen any other vehicle to have done it in. we got 27.8 miles per gallon. Ill take it. --- Cons The wind with knock you over, no really if its windy let off the gas. I feel like for a brand new car the headlights lack in visualizations. The speed on the windshield wipers is not up to par, in fact I consider them almost dangerously slow. The sound system could be better. I will have to have it replaced with a better system at some point. Its lacking in every way. (The Sounds system for years it seems on Kia models has come with issues, you have to reset it with a pin (pointed object, being inserted into a tiny hole) Or there will be no sound, from ipods cds ect.. Front grill isnt east to clean. Took many car washes to get the bugs off of the grill. I spent almost $30.00 just trying to removed them. There is still residue. If you have pets HUGE annoyance "You cant leave your keys in the car and lock the door, thus leaving the air on." If your keys are in the car your doors will not lock. Auto lock doors. Great for when you run in a store and forgot to lock your doors, not great for when you run back into the house to grab your purse. Mostly the cons are dumb things that are more annoyances that come with learning more about your car. The first three are my only real gripes. Over all. I think we went with the best choice. The price was worth it. Not over priced, not over sized. I like the kia community. We have had a really great experience with out service provider. Our car is nice enough to feel luxurious, but not well known enough to be targeted. As silly as that sounds. When youre from Chicago you learn the little things are important. Its great that it can fit into small spaces, tow a camper, lug 25 2x4s. Or just move a family across the continental United States. It handles nicely, it rides better and smoother than most SUVs Ive ever been in. Mostly I feel safe when I take her out everyday. Nothing feels better then knowing not only am I in a car with great crash test ratings, but if she breaks down Kia has my back. Take a chance, invest in a Kia.

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  wish I would have checked prices first - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By jesse spurlock - July 29 - 5:43 pm

  Just purchased vehicle hard to judge quality and reliability at this time. Bought mostly for warranty.

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  Lovin Kia - 2008 Kia Sorento
  By E.Blake - July 25 - 7:36 pm

  I live in Cleveland, Ohio and wanted a 4x4 vehicle. The Sorento has been a dream in the snow. Ive never felt so safe (will do 55 mph on snow covered highway no problem). The 3.3L engine is amazing. After turning the ignition the engine has a great rumbling sound to it, but when its idling you might think the car is off. When you floor it the drivers youre blowing by get startled (LOL). The price, warranty, and quality are unbeatable. I have experienced the passenger air bag sensor light issue, but only once. Overall, the vehicle is a joy to drive.

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  Beyond all expectations... - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By allie2386 - July 25 - 10:00 am

  As the mother to 2 small children, I was in the market for a midsize SUV that was safe and stylish. As a lifelong car snob,I cant believe how favorably the Kia compares to the high- end SUVs (which I really cant afford even if I sold a kidney). The exterior is great-looking, and the interior is thoughtfully designed, luxurious, and beautiful. The truck feels solid and well-built when you close the doors-- nothing flimsy here. The engine is whisper-quiet and driving is a pleasure. The acceleration is more than adequate, though not spectacular. I handles well and has a very tight turning radius.

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  My First SUV - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By Frenchie - July 25 - 10:00 am

  If you are looking for an SUV that handles smooth and not like a jeep, truck, etc. this is your vehicle. Smoothest ride I have ever had.

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  Way more than I expected!! - 2016 Kia Sorento
  By Drive767@aol.com - July 24 - 8:35 am

  I bought the best KIA available and I have not been disappointed. I drove nearly every similarly sized SUV in existence and nothing compares in terms of value. I definitely recommend the V-6 version, its much more fun to drive and, I believe, much safer. As an added bonus, I was treated like a human being at the dealership and it was a pleasurable experience compared to some to which I have been exposed. If there is a downside ...it will probably take quite a while to master all of the technology in this car.