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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  Great Vehicle! - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By Saul & Ruby - December 19 - 11:33 pm

  We bought our Sorento on Memorial Day and decided on it because we learned it is now built in the U.S. by American workers. I researched price, performance, interior & exterior quality and visited dealers of different makes and models for 3 weeks. THIS is the vehicle we returned to. It has much more accessories for your dollar than the Escape, Rav4, Equinox or Tuscon. With the 5 year bumper to bumper warranty, we couldnt say no. The interior is quality material and the outside looks great. The ride is great as well. I highly recommend this crossover/suv. KIA looks like they are going to be around for a very long time. Nice going KIA.

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  just got a sorento - 2017 Kia Sorento
  By dpvest - December 18 - 5:45 am

  you get a lot for the money w/ the premium and touring packages. actually, you get a lot for the money for the vehicle. good acceleration. smooth ride. decent noise suppression. would have liked the opportunity to purchase the EX w/out the third row seating (and have that be additional storage). excellent mileage for an suv.

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  Awesome SUV - 2017 Kia Sorento
  By Randall - December 17 - 6:23 am

  The 2017 Sorento is a great SUV. I have the LX AWD model and it has everything that I need. Love the Apple CarPlay. I have had it for a year now and I still look forward to taking trips in it. This is my 3rd Kia, and while the reliability of the other 2 was great, the quality of materials and fit and finish in this one is much better than in the past. The Sorento should NOT be overlooked when shopping for SUVs.

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  I wish I never bought a used KIA! - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By Cara - December 14 - 8:33 pm

  Well from the get go I was excited. I loved the outside and my two little boys under 3 wouldnt really mess up a used car and me care as much so it worked out due to the room also of an SUV. So I should have known while buying it the were replacing the timing belt not to get it I have had my drive shaft messed up and falling out along with the carrier bearings (sp.). Now my reservoir is cracked and being replaced and also my head gaskets are blown. I have had no heater and no air sometimes. It has stranded me and 3 kids and one adult in the middle of the road. They have no customer service at all and every time you call its someone new because they can keep their employees. No kia for me!!!!

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  Sorento Rocks!!!!!! - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By Galadriel - December 9 - 2:00 am

  I just picked up my Sorento last night and Im sooo happy I ditched my minivan for a Sorento! I went grocery shopping right after picking up my Kia, parked right next to a Lexus SUV; I think my car looks just as nice! I looked long and hard at Jeep, Toyota, and Mazda before getting a Kia. I challenge anyone to try get as much from those guys (Jeep, Toyota, or Mazda) for $25,000 as you get in a Sorento EX.

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  Love my Sorento SX AWD - 2017 Kia Sorento
  By Micki Brake - December 7 - 4:02 pm

  This Kia is everything you could ask for. It is comfortable. Quite. Classy looking. And most of all I feel safe in it. They have done a great job with all the safety features. It has excellent power and all the controls are easy to see and get to. You wont be disappointed with this Kia !

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  best pre-vehicle i excellent relIve had - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By paul - December 7 - 9:43 am

  excellent relieability and comfort, right size for my family now that my 2 childred and grown. good looks. nice 4 wh drive. car is responsive, has allthe whistles except cd changer

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  better than I thought - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By pappitto - December 7 - 6:23 am

  A very nice vehicle to drive, it loves to speed to an easy 70 mph. Youll need to keep an eye for the gas pedal; very soft.

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  I love my Sorento - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By philm - December 5 - 9:33 pm

  After driving two Explorers for the past nine years, it was time for a change. Dollar for dollar the Sorento puts the Explorer to shame. Although I would like for the MPG to be better, overall I could not be happier. Style, comfort, options, warranty, price, the Sorento has the competition beat hands down. If youre looking for an SUV, I would seriously consider a Sorento.

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  Great value in an SUV - 2017 Kia Sorento
  By Mike - December 4 - 5:34 pm

  Great ride, very quiet. Handling is good but if quick acceleration is your thing go for the v6. The vehicle has the feel inside of a much more expensive car and you can really tell it when you shut the door- very quiet. This car has the best warranty in the business and the overall impression of this vehicle is very positive.