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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  MY KIA - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By Hazmo1 - December 29 - 2:00 am

  We ahve been on two family vacations with this vehicle. So far it has been comfortable and very reliable. The mileage is a little low but it makes up for this with more than enough horsepower!!

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  Worst car ever - 2006 Kia Sorento
  By Dontdoit! - December 28 - 1:36 pm

  I dont have enough room to get too detailed but its been in the shop since 5k miles so far 21 times for electrical problems, brake lights, headlights, check engine light coming on, new transmission, brakes X3, u-joints, huge vibration on floor board, squealing belts and KIA acts as if this is my fault and it only has 67k miles on it. I will NEVER buy another Kia as long as I live. I read the posting and there seems to be alot of the same problems I am having with mine. Now its value dropped so much I cant even exchange the vehicle for something else. Its a dangerous car to have, therefore retained an attorney.

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  BEWARE of KIA !! - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By LWaylett - December 27 - 4:40 pm

  KIA Motors does not honor their warranties by FIXING the defects in their vehicles. My 2004 Sorento has had MANY bulbs replaced and Kia service said they did not know what the problem was. Now that my warranty has expired, I find that KIA DID know the harness wiring needed to be replaced so fix the reoccurring problems of headlights/tail lights going out. They knew this back in 2006, and made those changes on their new vehicles in 2007.

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  Love it - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By Kia Lover - December 26 - 2:20 pm

  Researched Toyota Highlander and test drove Hyundai Santa Fe, purchased the Sorento EX. Wanted the added protection of curtain airbags. Added Torque-on- Demand, and ABS breaks, for the best value for my buck. This truck is roomy and attractive inside and out. Handles well, seats 5 comfortably, and offers more than enough cargo space. Everytime I come outside and see it, Im glad I purchased it.

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  kia builds a great suv - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By rob - December 24 - 10:33 pm

  Wife was hit head on by a chevy cavalier. Chevy was totalled and the kia suffered a broken grille,hood and fender. 2500 to repair it. She was not hurt either.

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  Advice - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By Toya - December 24 - 10:00 am

  I have had several people mention to me not to buy a Kia. I asked why because they said they were cheap and lemons. Well I was in the market for a new SUV, so I test drove the Liberty, Escape and the Sorento. Now my mind was set on the Escape( Every car I have own was a Ford). But I was passing by the Kia Dealership and decided to stop and test drive the Sorento. Boy, was I surprise. I mean I fell in LOVE Instantly. By the time I left, I was riding home in my new Sorento. All of those people that told me not to by a Kia. How do they know they never owned one. So I have my own advice now. Go give Kia a chance. You wont be disappointed

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  Kia Sorento Review - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By Ken Sparks - December 24 - 10:00 am

  I purchased the Sorento after owning a Kia Sephia. I put alot of miles on the Sephia and had no problems but was looking for a large vehicle that would handle snow and off road conditions. I purchesed the Sorento after seeing one upclose for the first time, The ride on the test drive was great peppy roomy and comfortable. With a 100,000 mile warrenty how can you go wrong.

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  My Sorento - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By track726 - December 24 - 10:00 am

  I absoulutly LOVE my Kia. Its so much fun and its very reliable and comfortable to drive. All my friends love it and my family do too. Its fun and I just LOVE it

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  Pleasant experience - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By Joy Kahn - December 24 - 10:00 am

  Truly enjoyable driving. Luxurious interior for the price. The only negative is the very, very, poor gas mileage. Its a fun car to drive. Handles like a dream.

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  My 1st Kia - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By Toya - December 24 - 10:00 am

  Several people have told me not to buy a Kia, and for awhile I took their advice. Well, I was looking for a SUV and wanted to trade in my Ford Focus. I test drove a Jeep Grand Cherokee, Liberty, Ford Escape and The Sorento. I was not planning on buying a Kia, but by riding by and stopping just to give it a try. I Fell In Love with it and drove it home the same day. I would like to give some advise of my own. Go buy a Kia if not go test drive one