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:

• 

  Its Okay - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By carlos - January 23 - 5:23 am

  Great price, very reliable, good warranty.

• 

  2011 Sorento SX - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By edthecop - January 20 - 4:09 pm

  I purchased my Sorento SX in June, 2011, I am extremely satisfied with all aspects of the vehicle. Initially I was apprehensive about how the ride would be. as many of the reviews I read had the complaint of a rough ride. I would describe the ride as firm, not as cushy as the Envoy I owned for 10 years. However the vehicle maneuvers well and hugs the ground well. I just love the vehicle. Gas mileage is slightly under what is advertised. I bought the model with all the bells and whistles and everything works well. One problem to me is that when the engine is turned off and radio is turned on, there is no possibility to open the windows. This could be a problemin a emergency exit.

• 

  Solid Purchase - 2008 Kia Sorento
  By dj13 - January 14 - 1:20 am

  Excellent value, alot of vehicle for price. The ride is awesome, quite, handles like a dream, great all weather vehicle. We have 23,000 miles now and the vehicle is performing above expectation. It is difficult to look the other way when this vehicle offers so much for such a fair price. We have been pleasantly surprised and this is our second Sorento. The 08 has great power, fun shifting features for sport type driving, and as usual, comfortable seating. Drove from Florida to Arizona and my back felt just fine. Only negative is the passenger air bag sensors are confused. Company has a recall for the settings so I must get that done...besides that...a great buy.

• 

  Love my Sorento - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By Victor - January 11 - 8:16 am

  I was looking for a new SUV and found the Kia Sorento. When my wife and I drove the car we loved it immediately. The feel of the car was tight and responsive. The leg room was excellent, important on long trips that we take. There is plenty of space to store all the luggage. So we bought one. On several occasions at parking lots we got a lot of comments on "what is that car its beautiful, is it a Lexus?" I told them no its Kia Sorento; they couldnt believe it. So its time to get a new car and as you guessed, its going to be another Kia Sorento -- one problem, cant decide on the color. Anyone who buys this car will enjoy it as much as we did.

• 

  so far so good - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By steve - January 10 - 10:13 pm

  We bought our 05 Sorento used with 37k on it (for just over $16K). Exterior styling and safe, sturdy ride along with the warranty sold us on it (we were considering a GMC Envoy too). My wifes sister owns an 03 Sorento, and its been the most reliable car they have. Im a gas miser, but this truck has been slightly better than advertised (20-22mpg in mixed driving). Love the cargo room, comfort, and quiet ride. Plastic fender cladding not very sturdy (ripped an edge on a grocery cart return carriage), and Im taking the truck in for service at 42K next week. Well see how that goes. Overall, a LOT of bang for the buck. My wife loves it, and thats whats important.

• 

  KIA SORENTO EX 2003 - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By robdi - January 10 - 10:00 am

  This is our first KIA vehicle, which I bought for my wife, and we have had a WONDERFUL experience. We will NEVER buy an American Made(JUNK!!!) vehicle again. Our hats go off to KIA!!!!!

• 

  Great Value - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By kalkoala - January 10 - 10:00 am

  The more I look at the my Sorento the more I fall in love. It is a beautiful car that unfortunately gets bad gas mileage. The reason for the poor gas mileage is the ratio between horsepower and weight. If you dont mind the gas mileage its a good buy.

• 

  My Sangria Kia - 2018 Kia Sorento
  By My Sangria Kia - January 8 - 5:56 pm

  Love the vehicle so far. Not too many miles on it yet due to icy roads. I love how it handles and hugs the road. I still have many features to explore.

• 

  Its not the car; its the dealer/service - 2008 Kia Sorento
  By garibaldibyrde - January 7 - 12:04 am

  As much as I like my 08 Sorento LX, its not the car, its the dealer/service! The Sorento seems to be one with certain issues that plague most of the models. For example, so-so MPG, the passenger air bag sensor, brake rotors, hard shifting transmission (intermittent), rear differential failure and a front, testy transmission when in 4WD and recurring right side axle seal leak. These are problems which should be handled under warranty by any KIA dealer. Unfortunately, that is not the way the company does business. If you get lousy service at one dealer, you should be able to go to another dealer for service without problems. Not so with KIA. Let the buyer beware! Also if you miss any of the recommended services, they wont honor the warranty if any parts are adversely affected, even if the part just went bad on its own! KIA is extreme with their maintenance recommendations and timeliness of the services. Also be very careful when buying in the showroom. Every dealer is trained in HIGH PRESSURE sales/scare tactics. Dont allow them to pressure you into buying a car that you dont want. A "similar" vehicle is not the "same" vehicle that you want. Brush up on your haggling and bargaining skills and be prepared o walk out if you cant reach an agreement.

• 

  My Sweetheart Sorento - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By The Cloud - January 4 - 2:00 am

  If u like driving---u will love being behind the wheel of this beauty!!!!It has everythig that a person wants in a SUV!!!!