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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  Edmunds readers like it. So do I. - 2018 Kia Sorento
  By Howard Gabennesch - April 30 - 12:59 pm

  In early January 2018, I compared the average consumer ratings on Edmunds for midsize SUVs with at least 20 ratings in the 2017 model year. Grand Cherokee, Explorer, Highlander, Murano, and Pilot fell in a narrow 4.1- 4.3 range. The Sorento topped the list at 4.6. While the Sorento is unchanged in 2018, some of the others are now in new editions and their 2018 ratings may turn out to be different. But its safe to say that the current Sorento has been very well received by the owners who submitted reviews to Edmunds. And this satisfaction mirrors my own. High-quality interior, quiet ride, excellent safety technology, superior warranty, peppy V6, thoughtful touches throughout. I do wish they had given it a bit more leg room in second and third rows, but so far I cant find anything else Id change. I wouldnt hesitate to recommend this excellent vehicle.

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  Great Bang for your buck - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By afiremedicswife - April 28 - 3:06 pm

  This is a fun truck to drive! My husband even loves it (hes an F-350 man). Great towing, pulled our 4 wheelers and snowmobiles without a problem. MPG could be a little better. However, with the money I saved I dont mind putting a couple extra bucks in the tank. KIA did a great job design wise. I was looking at the BMW X-5 when a co-worker bought one and spent more time in the shop having it repaired than she owned it. I have not had one problem with my Sorento in 17,000 miles. I love it! I will consider another one when that time comes.

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  So far, not quite happy - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By mr. moo kow - April 21 - 2:46 pm

  I bought this vehicle about a month ago.The clock doesnt work, the air bag light sometimes works and sometimes not. I took it back to the dealer only to hear them say "Your name is on the waitng list. We are still waiting for Kia to come up with a new part". Very disappointed.

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  Very Happy - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By mommobile5 - April 20 - 4:07 pm

  Everyday I like this car more and more, I am getting 25.9MPG, and there is so much room! We got the third row thinking we wouldnt use it too much, but it would be nice to have. We I have used it a ton! And I can sit comfortably in between my 1 and 2 years car seats in the second row! Which is great for long trips when I need to sit back there to help them out with eating or stuff. We drove to Disney and Texas already! It did great. I killed the battery when I left the lights on one night, roadside assistance was GREAT! 35mins and they were there to jump me, free of charge! I highly recommend this car, my parents have a Lexus and they love my Kia.

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  2011 kia sorento ..two time loser - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By dude35 - April 18 - 10:43 pm

  First 2011 had transmission problems at 11,000..could not fix it..SO we purchased a second 2011 thinking it would not happen again ( our expense) . Whoever thought it would happed AGAIN. TWO LEMONS. Dealer not very happy and neither are we. Second car almost 11,000 again.

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  Sold a Pacifica to get a Sorento - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By SGalaxyM31 - April 17 - 10:00 am

  As far as the SUV market out there this KIA wins hands down. Ride handling and features are better than all the other models I test drove sold my Pacifica to buy it needless to say had about 9k left to take it on a vaction to the Keys 16 hour drive from Va.and could have turn around and drove right back the ride is that good,seats are great.I got the loaded model all but 4WD (dont need it here) tows my boat and other things great.

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  This is a great SUV for the money - 2008 Kia Sorento
  By Christopher - April 14 - 2:36 am

  I love my Sorento. The gas mileage is abysmal. Once you get over that, and the fact that the stereo is a bit weak, it is terrific in all other respects. It is very well put together with intuitive controls, an attractive interior, great seats, nice exterior design, nice wheels and terrific paint quality. I also like that they dont try to make this a seven seater but instead are very thoughtful with the storage area and addl storage throughout. If Kia could get a better stereo, nav option and work on the gas mileage, this would be the best SUV in its class.

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  excellent - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By Ellen Keser - April 14 - 2:00 am

  It drives quiet and the driver feels safe behind the wheel

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  luv my kia - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By Robin - April 12 - 5:20 am

  I enjoy driving my Kia but I will go back to a pickup with my next vehicle. This car makes a little wind noise when on the highway but other than that it is a great bang for the buck.

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  Excellent vehicle! - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By bek - April 9 - 10:00 am

  Everything is perfect, except that I hate the massive "Kia" logo on the front. Why did they have to make it so big? Also, the fuel economy is crappy, but about par for many SUVs.