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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Love my Sorento! - 2011 Kia Sorento
By rmmp - January 28 - 11:20 amIve never driven an SUV before but needed a new car as my old SAAB of 10 years wasnt up to par. I live on the top of a steep New England hill & spent 3 nights last year during winter storms at work or at anothers house because I couldnt get home up that hill. With this Kia I KNOW Ill have NO problem whatsoever in the future. Its just the car I needed & wanted. Luxury interior features that were in the SAAB & some new ones to boot along with the standard AWD and 4x4 option also! Where else would you find that! The topper for me was the Made In USA! Glad I can help myself and the economy! Everyone that sees it is in awe right now. Double takes from people on the street! LOL
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Kia Sorento--Great 4+4 - 2004 Kia Sorento
By Joe N - January 28 - 10:00 amSorento runs great and has a nice smooth ride. Problems so far are minor, some water leakes in to tray of the sunroof in the rear into a track. They say that is a drain track ??? am radio fades in and out. .Check your sunroors in the back ! overall this is a nice truck.
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Awesome - 2004 Kia Sorento
By KickinAus - January 28 - 10:00 amThis thing is awesome. I was a bit aprehensive because it had the name Kia, BUT when I actually drove it the car was amazing. This is truly a must have when shopping for a SUV. Low price + Great SUV = Phenominal Buy
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Love my Kia! - 2007 Kia Sorento
By Randy - January 26 - 10:56 pmWe purchased our Kia Sorento a few months ago and have fallen in love with it! We purchased it because of the low price, but have found that it has exceeded out expectations! Very comforable and love the "Radiant Red" color. Fun to drive!
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KIA keeps amazing me! - 2011 Kia Sorento
By Douglas Lower - January 25 - 2:10 pmJust bought a new 10 KIA Soul in Aug,loved it!Saw the new Sorento,had to have it! I checked out all the models,I felt the base model was the best choice for mileage and features.I like a manual trans.It has a black Ext. with chrome;handles,grill,rear trim.Nice alloy wheels.It has privacy glass.Very upscale looking!The interior is classy looking!Dk.grey and Lt,grey with a classy faux Blk/silver wood trim between them.The base model is loaded with all the safety features and power options you could want.Power;windows,locks,mirrors,cruise ,a/c,bluetooth,satelite radio,cd, stereo,ipod,usb port.Safety should be the same or better as the Hyundai Santa Fe it is based on,has excellent rating !
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How many recalls and repairs - 2011 Kia Sorento
By susan - January 24 - 9:14 amRecalled for braking issue within year of purchase. Last repair took two trips to the dealership and cost $250 to replace the turn signal gear box (not covered by warranty). Seat fabric is stains easily, and is wearing excessively on edges. Latches to fold down seats are hard to operate. Looking to trade and new car will not be a KIA. Seats cleaned by professional car detail shop. The fabric is not holding up as it should. We have no children that ride in the car, so the seats should be holding up better. No recalls this last year.
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Great SUV. I am impressed - 2004 Kia Sorento
By JNP - January 23 - 10:00 amI am mechanical engineering professor, and was looking for a SUV. Saw all, including US made, Germans, Swedish, French, Japanese, etc. Then saw the Kia Sorento and thought: "Well, another good looking car, but with nothing inside". Asked for a test-drive and was impressed. Then, took the test car for a trip off-road and was convinced. I have one Sorento for 9 months now. Great fun to drive, very good quality, very reliable, fairly economic (if you use a selected engine oil it gets real economical: I use BP Visco 7000 (0W40)). I am just curious about maintenance costs: until now I didnt had any problem with it.
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We LOVE IT First 1200 Miles a Breeze - 2004 Kia Sorento
By Zk3 - January 23 - 10:00 amWe were in the market for a SUV,and have owned sports cars in the past.This Sorento gets it !! I test Drove all the competitors and KIA SORENTO Won the challange HANDS DOWN! The Body Lines are the Best of all comparable Models.We Bought the 04 EX added the Leather Seats,Bug-Shield,Roof- Spoiler,Step-Bars,Brush Gaurd,Mud Flaps,Vent Gaurds,Front Window Tinting,Allezza Tail Lights,Removalble Dog Barrier,etc... And Drove it HOME under $27,500. Thats with all extra undercoating,paint sealer,leather gaurd...WOW plus 5 year/60,000 Everything (Roadside Included) and 10 year/100,000 Powertrain. My Advice is "Check Them Out"
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old kia owner and suv lover - 2004 Kia Sorento
By huppwc - January 23 - 10:00 amhave owned many suvs, looked at several again before buying this one. was amazed at the price and warranty for all the options and the great confor and looks.
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My 2nd Kia sorento - 2013 Kia Sorento
By darda71 - January 23 - 9:53 amI just purchased my 2nd Kia Sorento, I had a 2011 LX with the 4-cy and my lease was up and I upgraded to the SX V6.. I looked at many different SUVs and almost purchased the Jeep Grand Cherokee but after driving the SX I stayed with Kia. My Only complaint on the 2011 was the Ride was stiff and power in the 4-cy, so The SX took care of both issues.. I love the Sorentos, cant beat the value they are the perfect size suv. I have the 2-tone leather, dual roofs, nav, keyless start, lighting package, chrome wheels.. Drive one and you will be impressed.
