2003 Kia Sorento Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.60/5 Average
321 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

The Sorento is an all-new SUV from Kia. Larger and more powerful than the pint-size Sportage (which is expected to return for 2004 after a 2003 hiatus, by the way), the Sorento straddles the emerging middle ground between small SUVs and midsize SUVs. And it does so while offering interested buyers true off-road ability. Key competitors are the Ford Escape, the Honda CR-V, the Jeep Liberty, the Nissan Xterra and the Toyota Highlander.

Pros:
  • Great value, class-leading warranty coverage, long list of standard features, solid construction, true off-road capability.
Cons:
  • Engine needs more power, subpar fuel economy, seat upholstery could stand improvement.

User Reviews:

Showing 301 through 310 of 321.00
  • KIA - 2003 Kia Sorento
    By -

    I just purchased a new KIA Two weeks ago. I took it on a trip up to Reno NV and It preformed wonderful in every respect. It had plenty of power for the many hills. Everything worked perfect.

  • Excellent - 2003 Kia Sorento
    By -

    We own a EX 2x2 purchased in July of 2003. I was initially afraid to buy a Kia. I took a test drive, studied the long list of standard equipment (even a full sized alloy mag spare), then purchased our first Kia. A comparably equipped Nissan/Toyota is $8,000 more. I was impressed with the engine smoothness & quietness at highway speeds. I believe the engine horsepower is under rated by at least 30HP. This SUV weighs over 4100lbs and stills merges with California freeway traffic (70-75 mph) with ease. Ive only had one problem, a small rattle in a door, that was fixed in the first month. The styling, reliability and long list of outstanding features make this SUV the best buy on the planet.

  • the best suv ever - 2003 Kia Sorento
    By -

    I purchased my Sorento almost three years ago, and it is the best SUV I have ever bought. I get more compliments on the styling of the outside and inside. I have over 50,000 miles on it, and have not had any major problems of any kind. I am now in the process of purchasing a 2006. I have sold many Sorentos in my neighborhood. Keep up the excellent work.

  • Sorento - a must L@@k for a SUV buyer - 2003 Kia Sorento
    By -

    I purchased my Sorento after considering the Toyota Highlander and Hyundai Santa Fe. Without question, the Sorento was an excellent value and a quality vehicle. Everyone asks..."Is that a Kia?" For +/- $8,000-$10,000 less than the Highlander...Toyota better keep their eye on this Korean manufacturer!! Buy one...You wont be sorry.

  • ONE GREAT SUV - 2003 Kia Sorento
    By -

    The Sorento is a great vehicle. We just love everything about it. This is our second Kia, our first one was a Spectra and we loved it also. I just cant belive how much you get for so little money. It is very capable off road and on road it is quiet and very refined. I work for a Jeep dealer and i think that the Sorento is every a lot better vehicle then a Liberty for a lot less money. As long as KIA continues to make top notch vehicles like the Sorento i will be a customer for life.

  • no comparison - 2003 Kia Sorento
    By -

    I bought my EX model three weeks ago. I had looked at all the luxury SUVs. There is no difference between this vehicle and the Lexus RX300, or Acura MDX. I felt I couldnt afford not to get this car. Between the warranty, the price and the absolute quality and luxury of this car I am thrilled with my purchase. It rides like a dream and I have every luxury imaginable. This time my husband was right!

  • A WHOLE NEW SUV - 2003 Kia Sorento
    By -

    Its just such a nice vehicle to have. Having an intimidating V6 engine that even impresses V8 owners its quite fun. Plus having the freedom in mind that it is cover for 100000 or 5 years gives you an edge over other SUVs. All I can ask for in my Sorento is a sunroof. Unfortunetaly I was buried in negative equity with my RIO CINCO that I had to settle for the LX model with the nice rims on the EX, and the roof rack. Its still a very nice vehicle. I really recommended for all new shoppers. It just takes the SUV into another time zone. I have people advising me to put 20s on it or if that if its a LEXUS. WELL DONE KIA.

  • best price on an S.U.V - 2003 Kia Sorento
    By -

    the best car i ever owned. warranty is a peace of mind on this vehicles.

  • 2003 Sorento - 2003 Kia Sorento
    By -

    Had our Kia Sorento for seven months (6000mi)now. We love it. The biggest complaint is it SHOULD get much better gas milage! Maybe its not quite broken in yet. Only had it to the dealer once-the check engine light came on-turned out to be a polution control item. Fixed it in 20 minutes. Only other complaint is the cig. lighter /power outlet in the front console & the one in the rear compartment are only powered when the key is ON. This caused our cell phone to do a noisy power up sequence every time the key is turned on. I fixed it myself by running a new fused wire that is hot all the time. Other than that, its fine.

  • ILUVMYSORENTO - 2003 Kia Sorento
    By -

    A good buying experience ended in a good purchase. Good quality SUV. I did all the research possible before buying. I would finish the salespersons sentences, I could probably sell them myself. I was very confident going into this buy with all the knowledge possible. It is a great looking SUV. I get a lot of looks driving it. I love all the special features. Mine is semi-loaded, with leather interiors and the wood-grain package. Window visors and bug- deflector finish off the look.

Kia Sorento Reviews By Year:
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