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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  Worth checking out - 2006 Kia Sorento
  By dstockdale - April 7 - 10:37 pm

  Bought my 2006 Sorento in 2009 with only 15,000 miles on it. If youd have asked me 5 years ago if Id buy a Kia, Id have told you no. This one had all the bells and whistles I wanted (heated leather seats, moon roof, etc). Being the 2nd owner, I still had 45K miles left on the bumper to bumper warranty when I purchased it and, here I am at 57,000+ miles and still thrilled. Is it a BMW? No, but I knew that going in. After 2 years of ZERO issues, Im pretty happy. Oh, it does tend to need headlight and tail lights changed frequently but whatever.... even me, a girl, was able to do that myself and for cheap. Would I recommend, yes, definitely.

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  Poor Sevice Department - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By tgh1357 - April 5 - 8:10 am

  Bought new. 1 week later found out sunroof leaked due to poor manufacturing. Fought with dealership to fix (said we probably walked on the roof!) Finally fixed, but had paint overspray all over vehicle. Passenger air bag didnt work. Kia service told me to sit with legs tightly squeezed and it would work! Finally agreed to fix it. Sent seat out for repair. Scratched door jams really bad and gave me touch up paint to fix a new vehicle myself! Too many headlight changes to mention. Dome light motor replaced, electric seat motor replaced. Paint very, very thin and dents easily. Dealing with below surface rust on the tailgate now. Rims have corroded beyond belief and look terrible.

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  i was a against it! - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By dml - April 3 - 10:00 am

  did not even want to look at this car. then i was forced to test drive and changed my mind. still took me a month before i realized it was the best deal! price, comfort, warranty, ride, ex features, couldnt ask for more....

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  Reliable Gas Guzzler - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By Mar - March 29 - 1:23 pm

  I had a 2-door Honda Accord before this so I was not prepared for the cost of gas to fill this tank. It is a drain on my wallet and Im looking to sell and go back to a car. Its a good looking car, pretty fun to drive (except for eying the fuel tank gauge). Very good in the snow, Ill miss the reliability of driving up a hill in snow and not worrying about getting stuck. Bought it w/ 32k miles, Ive put 12k on it, still under warranty, had a couple check engine lights that turned out to be the gas tank O2 sensors. rear light bulb went out, fixed it myself for $2. If I was an SUV driver and didnt care about gas mileage, Id keep the Sorento, but Im not so it has to go.

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  Not Quite Ready for PrimeTime - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By Sgt Wright - March 29 - 10:00 am

  Looks good. Noisy but peppy engine. Hardest leather seats I have ever encountered. At this time this is a "buyers mistake". When KIA quiets the engine, improves the seats, and makes other "gadge" upgrades it will be ok.

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  Happy KIA Sorento owner - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By Don Railey - March 29 - 9:03 am

  After reviewing the KIA website I was intrigued enough to go to a dealer and take a look. The quality, performance, ride, good looks and pride I feel when others look and inquire as to "what is it?" I traded a full sized luxury sedan thinking I would be giving up the luxury. Wow was I wrong. I not only have all the luxury I was accustomed to, I own one of the most unique vehicles on the road today.

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  Our 3rd Sorento - best yet!! - 2017 Kia Sorento
  By Mrs. E. - March 29 - 7:38 am

  The V6 is very responsive. In general, the car feels sturdier and more solid than previous years. Gas mileage is better even though it is a V6 - averaging between 24 and 25 mpg. Great car, good value.

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  Great car - 2014 Kia Sorento
  By pathlight - March 28 - 3:02 am

  14th car Ive owned and my first Kia after owning mostly Fords and Toyotas. I test drove virtually all of the competition and settled on the Sorento as the best combination of size, handling, quiet ride, technology, cargo layout (5-seater) and V6 option. The lengthy warranty helped me make the decision because Id never paid any attention to Kia in the past and reliability was an unknown. Ive driven it about 2,500 km and so far, Im delighted.

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  Love it - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By BPO - March 27 - 10:00 am

  Test drove a lot of the competitors and felt this was the best value for its class. I have an automotive background and initially I looked down on the KIA. After test driving, Ive changed my views. The 6 cyl is a must. Like the design and currently have zero issues. My previous two FORDS had a list started of warranty work for the same time period. Waiting for snow to see how the AWD system will compare to our Jeep Grand Cherokee. I have the white pearl exterior, black interior. Looks great when its detailed.

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  Crossed over - 2016 Kia Sorento
  By Tim Pros - March 24 - 4:14 am

  I had a bmw 328i before and traded it in for 2016 Sorento Sx V6. Although I dont use the 3rd row often I have filled it up w 6 people including myself 2 on each row. My guests said very comfortable. My bmw was boring compared to the sorento. The value is great I got all bells and whistles for a lesser price getting the SX Fwd. Before sorento I was thinking of getting Tacoma but then I thought A truck with a bed I dont even tow 99% of the times! Sorento has excellent interior very upscale Kia. Kia is coming up nasty!