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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  Saying Goodbye to my Kia - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By Michelle - March 24 - 1:43 pm

  I have had my Kia for almost 5 years now. I really loved my Kia, it was a lot of car for such a reasonable price. I replaced my headlights and tail lights twice a year. A/C has never worked right (which can isnt good when you live in AZ). Dealership always tells me that its running fine, so I have given up. The last two years I have put in a lot of money into the vehicle (I cant even remember all the things I have had done and of course not covered by warranty any longer).I am afraid that I will only be putting more into it the near future, so it is time to say goodbye. Dealing with the dealership was a joke and the overall cost to own this vehicle was much more than I had expected.

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  love my sorento - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By SUSAN CLOPPER - March 24 - 2:00 am

  This is the most comfortable vehicle i have ever owned. I switched from being a long time Chrysler owner and I believe the Kia Sorento to be far superior in quality. The interior is well thought out (everything is easy to get to for the driver) It is solidly built. I love the sound system and cruise control in the steering wheel. Myonly complaint is the mediocre fuel economy. I get around 16 mpg. I understand the weight is a factor.

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  One great SUV - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By Byron Erickson - March 24 - 2:00 am

  If you are interested in a true SUV look at the Kia Sorento. This is not a "crossover" but a vehicle capable of real off-road fun. I have had mine for a year now and have never had a problem with it. It is a good looking SUV and often mistaken for one that costs much more.

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  Rear sunroof Problem! - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By cmgf - March 23 - 12:03 pm

  Leaving the lot in new sorento and realized the rear sunroof cover wouldnt open. Salesman couldnt open it either but assured me Service could take care of it with no problem. 5 weeks later I am still dealing with this. It is a Kia problem that the dealership has never seen before although apparently there are several cars on lot with this problem. They had to take the entire interior roof lining out and redo the whole sunroof. Two days to fix. Never drive it off the lot with a problem, even if they tell you its an easy fix.

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  Great Value, but you get what you pay for. - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By sorentofamily - March 23 - 1:54 am

  We have a 2005 Sorento with a 158,000 relatively trouble free miles. So when we went car shopping, looking at a new Kia seemed logical. We have had this 2011 Sorento for 2 weeks and 749 miles. We get about 22.5 mpg due to the hilly commute to work. We chose the Sorento after test driving a 2009 Cadillac CTS, Optima Turbo S, and a cool white tiger Soul. We sat in a Forte but deemed it too small for our comfort. We couldnt help but compare all the different ride qualities to the Cadillac CTS. Surprisingly the Sorentos ride quality is comparable to the Cadillac, although somewhat noisier. The Kumo tires are good but occasionally sound like over inflated balloons when driving over rough road.

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  loved it but bad gas mileage - 2006 Kia Sorento
  By krista57 - March 21 - 9:10 pm

  I did absolutly love my Kia but the gas mileage was un beleivable. I checked it twice on the gas mileage to see what I was getting and both times it said 15.5 mpg. I could not believe it. I just traded it in on a Pontiac g6. But if it werent for the gas I would never have traded it in.

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  Follow-up - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By skiboji - March 17 - 5:54 pm

  I currently have 45,000 miles on the Sorento and interior plastic is starting to crack in the door panels. The car is more hesitant in acceleration than it was previously and the original Kuhmo tires are by far the worse tires that I have ever driven in snow. The summer performance tires that I have had on rear wheel drive cars got around better than this awd vehicle. Got new Michelins this winter, but no snow to test them yet.

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  Great car ...I bought 2 in a week - 2006 Kia Sorento
  By TnBulRdr - March 15 - 11:00 pm

  I like to drive the vehicle and it is smooth and fun. I think it should have better gas mileage due to its size, but oh well. I liked my wifes so much, I bought a second one a week later, so we have 2 in the garage. They are great cars and worth the price.

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  Hard to beat for the money - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By sskrzysik - March 10 - 2:00 am

  My wife and I searched far and long for a mid sized SUV that could take us up the mountains for skiing. After looking at just about every competitor we found the Sorento the best in every category. Our Sorento is loaded with every option except load leveling. After two months of driving, we truly are happy with our purchase. Being built on a truck frame makes you feel like you own the road without being the biggest out there. The interior quality is superb. Tons of read passenger space!!! Only problem has been a few minor rattles. Haggle with the dealers like we did, dont pay over invoice!! Everyone in the market for a SUV should look at the Sorento.

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  Some likes and dislikes - 2017 Kia Sorento
  By Jack Sorders - March 4 - 12:22 am

  Bought the 2017 EX with Tech and Touring packages two months ago. Didnt get navigation, since Apple navigation Maps will show on display if Iphone plugged in. (But Waze is not compatable). I like that I can use Bluetooth, so I can use Siri for calls, emails etc. without picking up the Iphone. Car verbal commands will play AM and FM stations, but will not recognize commands for XM stations -- instead it goes to FM station (strange). Good handling in twisting roads; I like power, acceleration and downshifting for Colorado mountains. DONT like the electronic steering! Im used to hydraulic steering where once you get it "on tract" it stays there even if you touch the wheel either way. With the KIA on highway at 60+ mph, you have to constantly make micro adjustments to the wheel to get it back to neutral. No its not alignment. 3 dealers have done alignments and its perfect. One dealer said thats just the way electronic steering and other new cars are to save weight and for fuel economy. KIA: Thanks for making those saving and the expense of easy driving. (I wonder if Audi and BMW steer this way). So drive it on straight highway at 60+ and see if it bothers you before buying.