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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  2016 KIA Sorento - 2016 Kia Sorento
  By Mike B - June 14 - 3:47 am

  Compared to numerous other makes. Got the best band for the buck with the KIA.

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  Fun To Drive - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By Jaco - June 10 - 2:00 am

  It is just absolute Fun to drive

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  crankcase and mnemonic balancer - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By Ontario - June 8 - 3:10 pm

  I purchased new in 2005. Overall, Im satisfied with this vehicle. Two things of disappointment: Fuel milage and the Crankcase Mnemonic Balancer bolt broke at 104000 Km. Imagine! It was fabricated out of a cheap aluminum by-product. It cost us $1200.00 to replace! Not happy, at all, about that. Would I buy another one? Yes, because of the dealerships unmatched customer service and the price point.

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  Could not ask for better - 2012 Kia Sorento
  By jnell - June 7 - 12:59 pm

  I bought my Sorento 11 months ago and absolutely love everything about it. The features, the design, the ride, gas mileage, etc. In 11 months, I have put 20,000 miles on it and never had any problems. The only thing it has ever gone to the dealership for is oil and tire rotations. I hit a deer about 5 months after having it. I was worried with it being a new car parts would be different, etc. It runs awesome after being repaired and I cant even tell anything is different about it. I love my vehicle, its everything I want. I wont buy anything but Kia from now on due to the service and awesome warranty. Nothing bad to say after having it 20,000 miles, absolutely love it!!!!!!

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  Transmission - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By Beverly - June 7 - 12:23 am

  The car drove good, but at 20,000 miles the Transmission went out. Kia repaired it at no cost. I do not feel that I have a new car any longer. I have asked Kia to give me a new vehicle but they only offer to pay 1 month payment.

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  2009 Kia Sorrento - 2009 Kia Sorento
  By Mauer MVP - June 3 - 8:33 pm

  Overall I am very happy with the Kia Sorento. It has a lot of power and rides very smoothly over bumps! The view is great fwd and aft when driving and so far gets good gas mileage 425 miles on a full tank equals 24 MPH highway/local streets!

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  Great Value For The Price - 2013 Kia Sorento
  By idrn - May 29 - 12:21 pm

  I traded in a 2007 Tundra with a 5.7L engine for this vehicle. Weve had it for about 1 month. The MPG is above the sticker estimated numbers. We are getting 26.1 city and 34.5 hwy. I think this is great coming from a huge truck with 14 city and 17 hwy. The GDI engine seems to be the best balance between economy and still having some oomph on the road. The back up camera and rear sonar are great and the UVO is very easy to link to bluetooth HTC phone. We really like the A pillar A/C for the rear seat and the fold down arm rest for the rear as well. The rear under floor storage is huge and the ride is quiet and smooth. Though not a Lexus the value is right for the money.

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  4 month update Kia Sorento EX AWD V6 - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By Upstate NewYorker - May 26 - 4:20 am

  Have had my Kia Sorento EX AWD V6 since March. Now 4 months later and 5000 miles, am still very impressed! 3 adults traveled 2500 miles with stops all over New England area and the Sorento was FANTASTIC. 23.2 MPG even going through NYC and NJ freeways jammed up traffic. Voice activated Navigation was wonderful and my favorite option was bluetooth phone linked to my nav screen with touch screen button to call hotel look up. AWESOME! This is a GREAT BUY and is now made mostly in U.S.A. Recommend this SUV. We traded in a 2007 Mazda CX-9 Grand touring fully loaded and only thing we are missing in the Kia is HID headlights and rear climate control.

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  Superb vehicle - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By Manuel Agurcia - May 22 - 1:53 pm

  The most for your hard earned buck. No match.Period. Value and Safety in one hot outfit. And the best warranty in the market.

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  Great SUV for the money - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By justme - May 21 - 10:00 am

  Narrowed search to Mazda Tribute, Ford Escape, Honda CR-V, KIA Sorento, Hyundai Santa Fe. After driving, narrowed to 2 SUVs. Mazda/Ford rode rough and bad wind/road noise, also couple thousand $ more than rest. After drive Santa Fe and Sorento are best. Wouldnt you know? The choices basically from same company. After looking closely you see they shared some of same components. But, clincher was Santa Fe almost $4000 less than Sorento and that made diffeerence to us this time. However, both great and have reasons for choosing one over other. Bigger engine/flat-folding seats not worth extra 4 Gs so Santa Fe won.