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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  Im Happy - 2006 Kia Sorento
  By cajun - June 5 - 8:50 pm

  So far after 3 weeks the wife is still happy so Im happy. Comfort and accessing the controls is easy, all within reach. The ride is better than the Taurus it replaced. The steering is something I had to get used to. It seems a little sluggish, not as responsive as other cars Ive owned.

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  Great value if you can get a deal - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By JerryO - June 5 - 2:30 am

  Handles well, very solid feel. You can feel the higher weight in the ride and when you hit potholes, just absorbs it. Interior hip room is great, especially in the back seat with a carseat in the middle(mid-seat 3 pt. belt great for kids to see road too). Looks like a Lexus, very similar features in general, but at 19K, well worth the investment. Smooth acceleration and fun with the 5-auto w/shifter. Looks as strong as it drives.

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  ILUVMYSORENTO - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By JayneM - June 3 - 2:00 am

  A good buying experience ended in a good purchase. Good quality SUV. I did all the research possible before buying. I would finish the salespersons sentences, I could probably sell them myself. I was very confident going into this buy with all the knowledge possible. It is a great looking SUV. I get a lot of looks driving it. I love all the special features. Mine is semi-loaded, with leather interiors and the wood-grain package. Window visors and bug- deflector finish off the look.

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  2013 SX - 2013 Kia Sorento
  By CD - June 1 - 11:59 am

  SX model. Nice car, comfortable front seats. tight second and third row leather seating. Road noise is more than other comparably equipped SUVs thru windows and doors. Ride is a little stiff, but very nice overall. nice handling, turns tight One iratating flaw, backup camer is offset 4 inches to left of center, makes parking or hooking up to a trailer is difficult. I traded the car in sept after 5 years owning it for a new Jeep that could tow more. somebody got a great family car.

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  Nice vehicle, but! - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By Windjam - May 30 - 9:43 am

  Excellent purchase price, as well as cooperative dealership. This vehicle is a real head turner. Purchased on 2/22/10 and have had many positive comments. Lives up to its hype re: high seating w/good view of road etc. and fuel mileage is OK, not great, but ok. Ride is a bit hard as are the seats. I went w/heated leather. Not real quiet on road and mine sounds like I may have a loose shock up front. (Will be checked by dealer) Front doors need to be a bit larger, for access. Im 6 and must be careful not to bump my head when getting in. Have all the options, Nav, Satellite Infinity radio, bluetooth, homelink, 18" chrome wheels. So far, am happy w/the vehicle.

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  My Kia experiance - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By hciaffa - May 29 - 10:00 am

  Looking for a replacement for my wifes Subaru Forester which turned out to be a disappointment for us, it never dawned on us to seek out a Korean brand automobile. I had started to notice some write ups on the Sorento and I thought this looks interesting. The experiance with this car has been great to wonderfull. It is pleasent to drive, the response is very good and it runs like a bear in the snow that we had this past winter in New England. Our model is the EX with the luxury package having the AWD with 4 wd low.

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  Decent car overall - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By Clya - May 26 - 11:33 am

  This SUV has great features but there were a few significant issues for me. The windshield seemed very small and the A pillars very wide reducing visibility and causing a claustrophobic effect. Also, the back up camera image being in the rear view mirror was extremely distracting and made it more difficult to have full visibility to safely back up. Additionally, the steering was so tight it almost felt as if there was no power steering. I thought at first it was just a problem with the first Sorento I drove, but after driving several, it seems to be normal for that vehicle. Its generally a nice car, spacious, I just didnt feel safe driving it.

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  Just Purchased - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By queenstim - May 24 - 10:00 am

  The Dealership was great, and the vehicle feels much more expensive then it is.

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  Kia Sorento - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By Bruening - May 24 - 10:00 am

  Love this suv! The only thing Im unhappy with is the fuel economy being subpar. Tons of standards! Excellect warranty!

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  My first KIA - 2014 Kia Sorento
  By tig2002 - May 23 - 4:44 pm

  This is my first KIA out of 14 other cars I owned in the past and I am very impressed. My 4-cylinder AWD Sorento LX gets the best gas mileage in area with altitude of 4,300 feet out of any SUV I owned in the past – 24.3MPG in mixed 50% city/50% highway driving without even breaking the 5K barrier. I am also impressed with is the built quality and quality of materials, both interior and exterior. The ride is a little stiff but soft (no rattles or squeaks), which makes this SUV let you feel it and handle better. The interior is designed very well. I am not so much impressed with looks of the exterior but I don’t really care whether I get compliments. Test drive it and you will be thrilled.