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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  Dont buy a Kia!!!!! - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By maureen26 - December 13 - 1:07 am

  I bought my Kia used. So of course the 100,000 mile warranty was not valid. I have poured so much money into this vehicle over the 3 years Ive owned it. I maintain it properly, oil changes, new tires, etc. Well, I just found out the entire rear axle and differential completely rusted/rotted away to nothing. The only thing holding up the car was a shock! I truly believe this car was made poorly with cheap metal. Kia will not help me or stand behind the cars they build. When replacing the rear axle the mechanic found a part that was manufactured wrong in the factory and put on backwards. Again, KIA stands behind nothing! I could have purchased a rental car with all of the times Ive had one.

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  KIA Sorrento - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By DAL 747 - December 10 - 2:03 pm

  A great value for the money, interior detail nice, comfortable and fun to drive, wasnt looking for a KIA, happy with selection. I would highly recommend you test drive. I had been introduced to the Sorrento at a used LEXUS dealer. Check-one out, you wont be disappointed.

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  love my sorento!! - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By ChristineS - December 10 - 10:00 am

  I cannot say one negative thing about my Sorento. I looked at several other SUVs including the Jeep Liberty, Ford Escape and Hyundai Sante Fe before purchasing my Sorento and the decision to buy the Sorento was an easy one. Its a great looking, great performing vehicle at a gret price.

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  Great Crossover - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By Kansas - December 8 - 7:03 pm

  We have had our Sorento for 3 weeks now. Taken a couple of extended trips. 25 mph on highway, 21 in city (2500 miles so far). Rides stiff, but I knew that and like that ride. No rattles. Bluetooth works great; love the styling in and out.

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  Great Value for PRICE! - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By Alexjon - December 8 - 2:00 am

  Im planning to get a Sorento by the end of the year, so I test drove a fully loaded 4x2. Very good car as far as could tell in the test drive, great interior /exterior design. The interior was very rich and plush! Very similar to Lexus RX 300 as far as looks but quality will be judged in time. The exterior was very nice and very appealing, it looks in better in person than the internet pictures. Engine could be a bit more powerful but for the price its a great deal! Overall I had a great experience driving this car and I will be the owner of a Sorento very soon.

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  first new car - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By jared02 - December 8 - 2:00 am

  Ive been searching for a mid-size SUV for a year. I found the Sorento online and thought it too good to be true. Great looks and well built! Handles just as good or better than my wifes 99 Honda Accord. Fuel economy suffers. The best warranty and standeard features you can find for the price.

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  Worst car ever - 2009 Kia Sorento
  By Chris - December 3 - 5:59 pm

  This is the worst car i have owned. Bought it two years ago with 56,000 miles on it. In two years have had to replace ac clutch and compressor. Both valve cover pan gaskets. Then the rear differential went out. After having that fixed today the alternater went out. If I didnt owe more than its worth would trade it in tomarrow.

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  KIA SORENTO A GREAT SUV - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By diego - December 3 - 10:26 am

  After doing some research on the SUV market we chose the Kia. It has great looks, very good ride, excellent engine performance and an overall quality that I would expect from a more expensive SUV. The interior is very well planned and the materials are of very good quality. The Sorento is built on a truck frame giving it a firm ride that I like. It truly is a good off road truck that I can depend on in all types of conditions.

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  KIA - Keepsake, Innovative, Affordable - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By Carla Copeland - December 2 - 2:00 am

  I broke down near the KIA dealership on my way to Toyota to look at their 4- Runner. I had no idea of the changes and upgrades that KIA made. Approx. 3 hours later, I was the PROUD owner of a new KIA Sorento. I have all the luxury of the "more popular" SUVs at an affordable price. What I love most is how people look at the vehicle, trying to figure out what it is........

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  Sorry But MPG Sucks - 2013 Kia Sorento
  By electricnow - November 28 - 2:58 pm

  The vehicle is great in every other way other than The MPG. My wife drives it most of the time and we both get the same results. 21-22.5 city and Hwy. The 22.5 was all interstate, two people in the car with no cargo. I am 61 yrs young and have had many brands of vehicles over the years and have had only two, Honda and Toyota that got the claimed MPG. I looked at the Honda CR-V but they would not give us enough for the trade and would not knock off enough on the car.