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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  Happy with KIA - 2006 Kia Sorento
  By Jimbo - December 16 - 7:03 pm

  I have only driven 4200 miles since bought this car. Most of miles on a trip to Las Vegas. It drove really good and was fun to drive. Around town I drive my l995 Geo Tracker just to save using the Kia. I hope to take another trip soon. The only thing I think is crazy, they say to change oil at 7500 miles. All my cars get changed at 2000 - 3000 miles. I have always done this and have never had any engine trouble with any car regardless of the make.

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  KIA SORENTO 5 SPEED - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By ANNY - December 9 - 2:00 am

  DURING MY BRIEF OWNERSHIP I FEEL THE FIT & FINISH IS EXCELLENT. IT IS VERY MANEUVERABLE, RESPONSIVE AND FUN TO DRIVE. I HAVE THE BASIC LX MODEL WITH THE 5-SPEED, AND EVEN AT THIS LEVEL THE VEHICLE IS WELL EQUIPPED AND THE INTERIOR IS WELL THOUGHT OUT.THE CLEAN AND UNDERSTATED STYLING OF THE LX APPEALS TO MY PERSONAL TASTES.

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  Lovin our SX - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By SX in Katy - December 6 - 2:00 am

  The SX is the way to go; the DFD dampeners make the ride unbelievable. I feel like I am driving an expensive European SUV. The whole family loves it, back seat recline and adds to the spaciousness.

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  No pros only cons 14MPG - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By rchrdbus - December 5 - 12:48 pm

  Bought the car in 2010. Car has 37000 miles on it, so far same issues other people have. Suspension is rough, rattle noise everywhere, tranmission is works whenever its feels like automatic. Had my car at high rev lines cruising in the freeway so i put it in tiptronic just put it in 6gear. Poor in gas. EPA says 21-29 which is reason i bought it, but city i been getting 14-18mpg and 22-26 at most highway. Regret purchasing this car

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  Solid SUV - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By RavenMan - December 3 - 2:00 am

  Except for the poor gas mileage this is a great SUV. Quality throughout. Ride is a little rough over bumps, but still a fine ride. Best deal in the market for the bucks.

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  AWSOME RIDE ! - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By meprec - December 3 - 2:00 am

  Quietest ride Ive ever had No rattles and handles bumps nicely Short turn radius

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  Love My Kia Sorento - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By Jen Hammer - December 3 - 2:00 am

  I was very reluctant to purchase a Kia Vehicle because I have always had Hondas--but after having purchased the 2004 Kia Sorento LX Model I am so pleased I did. It is so fun to drive but at the same time powerful, and handles beautiful. And I get so many comments about the cars roomy interior and exterior appearance-its beautiful! Now I have no regrets and would recommend to anyone thinking about buying an SUV to look at this first! You really get alot for your money-- it was fully loaded for about $10,000 less than the competitors wanted for a comperably equipped vehicle...and mine looks better!!!!

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  twitchey & in the dark - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By david nixon - December 2 - 10:36 pm

  The steering on the Sorento is just plain bad! This vehicle has electronic assist steering and has zero play in the steering wheel. A vehicle with has no play in the steering wheel is difficult to drive as very little movement in the steering wheel will cause the vehicle to move in that direction. I do remember when I took driver Ed. the teacher spent a session explaining why the steering wheel needs some play in it. As we drive we move the steering wheel a bit at a time to keep the vehicle on the path we want it to go. If there is no play just the smallest movement will cause the vehicle to move back and forth and make it very uncomfortable to drive. I would think on an icy road this would be very dangerous. Also the back up camera is so dark it is all but useless. In the daytime the reflection on the screen makes it very difficult to see and at night it does not show up well. I think the back up camera is more dangerous than not having one as the driver has to lean over towards it to try and see it better to no avail. I went to a Kia dealership and they looked at both problems and they explained to me that is the way they are built and there was no fix for the problem. The service manager agreed that these were problems but he apologized as there is no fix! I called Kia and the rep at Kia consumer contact said I test drive the vehicle and signed the contract so I would just have to put up with it!

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  Great Car but not as great mpg as they advertise ! - 2012 Kia Sorento
  By daneza - November 30 - 4:02 pm

  I bought this car for the appealing advertisement : great price, great mpg for a large SUV. Very quiet, very comfortable, lots of features (i.e. ipod, ventilated seats, a third row, AC on second row and third row, improved safety bags, etc). The sticker advertise 24 – 34 with large prints and small prints up to 38 ! We said: for sure we can get out of it at least 30. I drive over 500 miles / week with a 90% highway. I already put 3000 miles on this car and the best I could get out of it was 25 mpg. On the instantaneous mpg display I can go up to 30, but the pure math of dividing the total mpg per tank with total amount of gallons of gas is the final mpg of a car. That is 25 mpg so far!

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  Very happy after 4 years - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By jmace57 - November 30 - 9:46 am

  Granted we only drive 7500 miles per year, but we have been very happy with our Sorento. In 4 years, only one warranty item - a piece of rubber molding in the passenger door. Pretty poor gas mileage, but we knew that when we bought it. The only other complaint is that the sheet metal seems "thin" - very easy to get dings. It is just the right size, lots of features, comfortable...and for us, bullet-proof reliable.