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:

• 

  Love it so far! - 2008 Kia Sorento
  By Amy K - February 17 - 8:53 pm

  Traded in my much too tiny and wimpy Dodge Caliber last week for my black Sorento LX and so far I couldnt be happier. It so much fun to drive. I actually look forward to driving to and from work each day... makes it fun. Acceleration is awesome, ride is smooth and strong, and driving is easy. It handles like a dream.

• 

  A Good Buy - 2006 Kia Sorento
  By Sorentoluva - February 17 - 4:56 pm

  The Sorento is a user friendly vehicle to drive especially here in the Bahamas where you need a ride that is tough and rugged to handle some of those bad roads down here. It offers smooth handling and the power is there when needed for those open roads where sometimes I am surprised by its quickness, mine is the 3.5 V6. All in all I really like my Sorento and intend to enjoy it for as long as I can. What I really like is that it offers some features that an Explorer doesnt. I have to give it to Kia for the design and shape on the exterior. Those guys really kicked it up a notch. In my opinion the Sorento has one of the sportiest shape of all suvs you can find anywhere period.

• 

  Im luvin it - 2006 Kia Sorento
  By Shari - February 15 - 3:23 am

  It has been a year now and I have to tell you this thing is really fun to drive. My only complaint would be gas mileage...but it is an SUV so what did I expect. Overall this is a great car very comfortable...and did I mention fun to drive?

• 

  Real Candy for the Road! - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By TBKahuna - February 14 - 10:00 am

  Bought a EX with Luxe package. Considered buying Kia Sorento, Hyundai Sante Fe, Saturn Vue or Toyota Highlander. Found the Sorento to offer best value for the money and great looks. I have driven 11,000 miles in it so far, hauling camping gear and bikes, and every one has been nothing but Total Satisfaction.

• 

  Update on Transmission Noise - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By Kansas - February 13 - 10:00 am

  Olathe Kia contacted KIA engineers. Solution was to flash the computer. I am not sure how that works, but it worked. Fixed < 24 hours and they provided a free car during repair. Still very pleased with my purchase. Drives great, averaging 23 mpg, still turning heads. Thank you Olathe Kia.

• 

  awesome - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By icebergn9 - February 8 - 2:00 am

  different style and look altogether,rugged and durable.

• 

  Sorento is a killer - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By Florgette Bellamour - February 8 - 2:00 am

  This is the from kia (S U V ) beside the Sedona Van. The ride is smooth with a lot of leg room.I have been driving the Sorento for over a Year now and I like every moment of it. When I was looking for a SUV I wasnt loking for a sport car I was only looking for a 4x4 with low maitenance and somthing good for my budget.

• 

  Sorento kept me very safe in Accident! - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By ct621 - January 30 - 6:49 am

  I bought my 2011 Sorento in June of 2011 unfortunately I only owned it until July of 2011 since I was involved in a serious accident. I was going through a major intersection where I live when another driver made a left turn in front of me and failed to yield. I was going 45 mph and she was going about 15-20 we had a head on collision and my car flipped twice. I was wearing my seatbelt which saved my life but the sorento kept me very safe!! I couldnt have been more pleased with the car in the short time I owned it. It was a shame to see such a beautiful car sold for salvage:(

• 

  FUEL MILEAGE 20+ - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By harleydad87 - January 29 - 10:43 pm

  I just purchased an 04 Sorento EX w/ 105k on it. After reading about fuel mileage, we almost took our other vehicle on our day trip Saturday. 309 miles, mostly highway, cruise control at 75, w/ several stops, I still managed to get 20.5 mpgs. So, while 2 mpgs arent much, I am sure that I could have got 22-23 had I kept speed at 65-70. Way better then the 18 from review.

• 

  Sorento SX delivers - 2012 Kia Sorento
  By tnvol75 - January 28 - 6:51 pm

  I am more than pleased with my new Sorento SX. More than anything, I am surprised at the total performance and delivery of this vehicle. More than I ever imagined. Cant wait to try it out on long trips to the beach. I previously owned a Ford Explorer and pretty much always been a fan of Ford. Since I have taken ownership of this vehicle I couldnt be happier with my purchase. After months of research and comparisons I feel like I have made an excellent decision with this purchase.