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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  Long Island NY 2011 KIA - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By stevemac3 - January 10 - 5:22 am

  I opted for the 4 cyl. AWD and its ok, ive driven a Sorento from long island to Memphis TN back in April (rental) and it was a great ride which lead me to choose the Sorento, I purchased my KIA on 12/7/10. I like the car and i like the interior layout and the dashboard, its put together rather well, just a few rattles in the interior and ive squelched all but one... i average 24 mpg, a combo of local and hwy driving...i like the rear back up camera. make sure ya get the ipod cable, and the rear cargo cover and your good to go...

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  2004 kia sorento 2wd - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By barski55@msn.com - January 8 - 6:53 pm

  this is a very sound car. drives great , handles as if is on rails. fun to drive - looks great ,safe top quality.

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  Sorento review after year 1 - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By Kia 4 Me - January 5 - 10:00 am

  As promised, Im back reviewing the Sorento after the 15000 mile mark, and Im happy to report that the vehicle has performed flawlessly for the past year. Gas milage is holding at 19 overall (see previous post), and at that level, the cost savings averages out to $1100.00 per year over a Highlander and $1300.00 over a Lexus. By the way, I use those two as comparisons as they are the only vehicle close to the class that the Sorento truly competes in. Kia definately has a winner here, and Ill be back at the 30k mark to let you all know how things are going then!

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  Happy in Ohio - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By Babycakes311 - January 5 - 10:00 am

  I purchased a 2004 Ex 4x4 in Dec., 2003. My first foreign vehicle. Was comparing it to Lexus 330, & Acura MDX when I compared, and test drove a Kia I was pleasantly surprised enough to purchase one, handles well in the snow, love the features. Dont let the mileage estimates scare you. Compared to a midsized SUV, consumption is comparable. Test drive one, you too may be happy. Sound system rocks! I havent had one problem with this vehicle. Good job Kia.

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  Love my Sorento! - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By Meand102 - January 5 - 10:00 am

  My Sorento is the best car purchase Ive ever made. Ive had an Explorer - wouldnt trade my Sorento for 10 Explorers! Its fun to drive, it looks sharp, and it pulls my boat with no problem!

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  I love my Sorento! - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By Kia Princess - January 3 - 6:20 pm

  My husband purchased the 2005 Kia Sorento for me as a Christmas gift and I love it! It looks like a much more expensive SUV and it drives like one,too. I needed the room but did not want to look like I was driving a bus. I have gotten so many compliments on my Sorento - people always think it is a Lexus SUV. When they realize it is not they are surprised. The warranty that Kia provides is one of the best out there. I had an Optima before this car and love the Kia products and I knew that I wanted something bigger and I wanted it to be a another Kia. We found out that the digital clocks had been recalled and needed to be replaced so anyone with a problem just contact your dealer to get a new one.

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  Kia Sure Surprised Me! - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By John - December 27 - 9:03 am

  Well I guess the gas mileage depends on how much you step on the gas. I seem to do okay with mine. All in all I love my Sorento. Its roomy, comfortable, luxurious, yet still sporty. Two thumbs up from this Mid Sized SUV guy

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  Electrical System is Bad - 2006 Kia Sorento
  By marilynh - December 23 - 7:50 am

  I researched my Kia and made my decision to buy. My Kia runs well but have had many other problems, the wheels lost their paint, Kia replaced them, the new set is losing their paint. The gas cap door latch broke, the gas pedal stuck, I had to pay. Ive replaced 4 headlights 1 turn signal and 1 break light within 6 months at my expense. Did I make the right choice? No. Also on my second set of tires.

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  Great car, great value- worth a look - 2016 Kia Sorento
  By Kim - December 20 - 9:00 am

  My wife and I were looking for a practical road car for our extended weekend getaways, with lots of room and creature comforts. This car definitely meets all of our expectations, but also works well on my daily commutes to the office. The quality and workmanship are outstanding, and the ride is solid and capable. Great car.

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  a nice Touring car - 2014 Kia Sorento
  By cottonwoodkoi - December 18 - 8:08 pm

  I bought an Lx, fwd, with all the toys.. just so that people understand that there is a large difference between the lx base and one that costs 10000 more. The suv is smooth and quite. no wind noise, little road. previous was was a 2007 cr-v, that had lots of road/wind noise.What a difference.I cn hear the music on low volume .4 cylinder engine has no problems going up steep hills and is showing 26.5 mpg verses the CR-Vs 28.