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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  fun ride - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By db4022 - March 23 - 2:00 am

  So far Ive enjoyed the Sorento it is the second vehicle Ive ever owned and compared to my last (a truck) it is very comfortable and quiet.Im also impressed with the build quality from the interior to exterior.The only think that is negative is the fuel mileage,which I figured since it weighs as much as a ford explorer it has alot of good metal weigh-which makes me feel really safe driving it-so a little extra change for the gas bill you get a good feeling of security from the vehicle.

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  Sorento Surprise - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By Erin - March 18 - 9:43 pm

  My husband and I set out to replace our 2004 Mazda MPV with a 7 seater crossover. We drove the Flex, the Journey, and two versions of the Traverse before the Kia. We were looking to test drive the Borego but the dealership didnt have any so we jumped into the 2011 Sorento and were really surprised by what we found. The Sorento has a comfortable, smooth ride. It has great pick up, nice features and enough room for our family of 5. Weve had the car for 2 weeks now and we have no regrets. This car is fun to drive!! It has plenty of zip with its V6 3.5L engine, pretty good gas mileage and the features like the dual vista moon/sun roofs give a new cool to moms "people mover"!!

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  Where should I start? - 2008 Kia Sorento
  By Barbara - March 17 - 3:46 am

  There was a vibration when idling from the start. We took it to the dealer and they kept it off and on for about 5 weeks. They couldnt seem to find the source of the vibration. They replaced a couple of computers; then the transmission,then a module,etc. The vibration is better but still not as quiet as a new car should be. We get about 18/19 mpg. No seat belt light issue at all.The dealership has gone above and beyond to please us,but they now say this is not uncommon in the 2008 model. Why didnt they say that when we first complained? We are disappointed that our first new car in years has/had this problem thats not really fixed. We may trade it before something else happens.

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  Beauty & The Beast - 2008 Kia Sorento
  By Bob Koch - March 14 - 11:13 pm

  Lots of performance and economy. The 262 hp V-6 has plenty of power. I have driven my KIA 14,000 miles, all in-town except on trip of 1200 miles. Mileage from the first tank of fuel has been 24 mpg. Highway mileage went to 28.3 mpg. I drive moderately for economy. Compared to my old SUV, this is a race horse. Very,very pleased.

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  Love My Sorento - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By DH5602 - March 11 - 10:00 am

  My Sorento is a true SUV. I have a lake cottage in northern Michigan and in winter it goes thru 16 inches of snow no problem. In summer it pulls my 18 foot boat. In spring it handles muddy back roads. On the highway it rides like a luxury car.

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  VERY GOOD FOR LESS - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By RONNIED - March 11 - 10:00 am

  VERY SPORTY AND WAS VERY GOOD OFF ROAD ON SIX INCHES OF SNOW IN THE WOODS. I HAD A BLASTS SHOWING THE WIFE WHAT REAL FOUR WHEEL DRIVE COULD DO! HOPEFULLY THE CAR WILL LAST AFTER THE WIFE IS THROUGH WITH AND ITS MINE.

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  My KIA - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By Jerry Ramsay - March 11 - 10:00 am

  This is the first new vehicle we have owned that didnt have any body flaws....excellent car!

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  Great Vehicle and Value - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By Drug cop - March 11 - 10:00 am

  I think that this is a great vehicle you cant beat the safety or the value for the price. I the sorento out does any vehicle in its class considering you pay over 25,000 for a Toyota Highlander but if you break down you will learn very quick they do not have any roadside asst.

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  new Kia owner - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By kia - March 8 - 1:10 am

  I have a 2005 Kia SUV. After the first service I had a flat tire after leaving the garage and had to pay almost $200 for a new tire. Then immediately the electronic key kept turning on the emergency horn and required more than 24 hours in the garage. Im not too happy with this car to date. I had a Honda for more then 10 years and never experienced this.

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  Awesome - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By Jason C - March 8 - 12:16 am

  For the price you cant beat the Sorento! A truck frame/ Rear-Wheel drive. This blows all the other vehicles in this class away, except maybe the Lexus or BMW. But then again people with a Lexus or BMW wont probably care about mounting a class 3 hitch. If you buy anything else your getting ripped off.