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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  2013 Sorento V6 - EX Great vehicle!! - 2013 Kia Sorento
  By tracywright - March 7 - 2:20 am

  I love my Kia Sorento V6!! Never thought I would purchase Kia but after disappointment over Subaru, I thought I test drive Kia Sorento and boy was I surprised! The vehicle drives like a german car. Very solid, smooth, great horse power and love the sharp look of both exterior and the interior. Kia Sorento V6 is better than BMW 5X. Why? Better performance, better price and sharp looking. I was really surprised how well the vehicle drove. It has everything that the BMW 5X. I am extremely happy with the vehicle.

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  great SUV for the price - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By West VirginiaSorento - March 6 - 10:00 am

  no problems so far, only complaint is the gas mileage

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  DO NOT BUY - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By hwoodward - March 2 - 1:36 pm

  I bought my Sorento in March of 2010 and started having problems with it in May. I have had it in the shop 41 days and counting since then. It will stall going 55-70mph and lose power until you stomp the gas again. Kia has been horrible to us and now they have the vehicle and are not providing us a car to drive because and I quote "this is only a nuissance not a safety issue!" I am a mother of a little boy and they may not care but I do care if something happens with my child in the car. We have turned the case over to BBB and am praying for the best. Do not buy if you want reliablity and service after the sell.

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  A Jewel - 2015 Kia Sorento
  By researcher21 - February 29 - 10:11 pm

  Our family is thrilled with our 2015 KIA Sorento Ex. It is an absolute pleasure to drive. The extra row of seats in back is a wonderful addition. Surprisingly roomy in 2nd row. The responsiveness of voice program and sound system along with other techno gadgets are great! Incredible Steering..will turn as sharp as a motorcycle!!! First week went on a trip, drove it a thousand miles through interstate and city traffic in Orlando and it got a hard to believe average of 26 mpg..Yes this is a keeper!!!!! To top it off the rear view camera makes handling the SUV easy as pie. WOW I could say more. ..this was thoughtfully made --a great deal! Thanks KIA! We are sooo happy!

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  New Soreno - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By Mrs. Billy Hawkins - February 29 - 7:46 am

  I recently bought a Kia Sorento because I was having problems with my Dodge Dakota that was not covered by warranty. I prefer manual transmissions, so when I saw how nice the interior was, and the performance of the Sorento, I told my husband this is what I want. I saved myself $40.00 a month in payments, and I love how this vehicle gets around. It has a wonderful warranty, and has plenty of room with comfort. The only thing I might have done differently if I did it over would be to get leather for the interior, because I dress up a lot, and it is hard to keep my clothes straight on velour seating, but it feels great. The gas mileage is not great, but neither was my Dakota.

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  Great buy - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By Ernesto Holguìn - February 27 - 6:53 pm

  It`s a great vehicle, my last car was a Rav4 with full equipment, My Kia doesnt have all extras , but are small things that make your car cost more. I suggest Toyota or Nissan owners to trust kia, I feel safer and it doesnt make so much noise as my last Toyota. Im delighted about the features this car has , its fun to drive

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  3 years and no problems - 2007 Kia Sorento
  By sixsix65704 - February 27 - 3:26 am

  I traded my 06 Kia sorento for the 2007. I got a great deal I financed 8800. I love the power of the V-6. I used it on the beach in Cape Hatteras ,NC. The 4x4 works great in the sand or snow. Great SUV for the money.

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  Very good car for the money - 2006 Kia Sorento
  By EML - February 27 - 1:56 am

  This is my first KIA and feel that it will not be my last. I have been a Ford customer for many years and Ford has been very good too, but I just like the style and how this KIA operates.

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  10,000 miles and loving it - 2012 Kia Sorento
  By soccermom57 - February 20 - 12:13 am

  I have previously owned five Chrysler Town and Country minivans and was ready to downsize. I did a great deal of research and decided to buy the Sorento SX over the Chevy Equinox due to the tremendous warranty difference and that it is made in the US. I now have 10,000 miles on this car, purchased on October of 2011, and love it. Its fun and comfortable to drive, I am getting the gas mileage promised-about 20 around town and close to 30 on the highway-with the V6. The ride is firm and fun, very responsive. I have had NO problems with this car and really love it. I highly recommend it and have not had any issues with the dealership at all ,they have been excellent.

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  2017 Kia Sorento TOWING TONGUE WEIGHT REDUCTION - 2017 Kia Sorento
  By TireKicker - February 19 - 3:37 pm

  NOTE IF YOU ARE CONSIDERING TOWING WITH A 2017 SORENTO --- 2016 Kia Sorento AWD 6-cylinder with tow package: towing capacity 5000 lbs with tongue weight 500 lbs (Owners Manual p. 5-104). 2017 Kia Sorento AWD 6-cylinder with tow package: towing capacity 5000 lbs with tongue weight 350 lbs (Owners Manual p. 5-113). Separately, you might also be interested to know that to change the oil it is necessary to first remove a cover plate with 17 bolts before you can access the oil drain plug. Consequently, most will end up hacksawing an access hole in the cover.