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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  Best Bang for the Buck - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By dan01801 - October 15 - 10:00 am

  I did a ton of research looked at the "luxury" used suvs and for the same price I got the Luxury 03 Sorento with the great warrenty !!

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  LOVE My Serento....At First - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By kimcar23 - October 3 - 12:11 pm

  Was the first time I spent over 25,000.00 for a car. Had what I thought were minor problems the first 3000 miles. Radio would not come on when I stated car, iPod accessory would not work, back seat rattled when driving on any surface. Radio problem fixed(I thought) and complain about seats and vibration everytime I bring in for oil change. Tires rotated twice, no help. Sometimeswhen I start AC will not come one or the radio will not come on,driver side window will not want to come up. Now I went to park my car and would not go into park. Then I could not get my brake to press in so I could start car. In shop now. Everytime I hear we could duplicate problem or nothing wrong was found.

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  Not happy at this time - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By lisamil - September 30 - 4:16 am

  I purchased my Kia April 2010. The dealer suggested that we buy the Simonize package, what a mistake that was. When I picked up the car, after being simonized it still had bugs on the mirror and the front of the car. Well it gets worse, the seats were simonized as well, now every time a drop of water gets on the seat, it makes a spot. I have contacted the dealership and trying to get this resolved, so far nothing, but Im hoping that they will fix this mess. It looks horrible and Im very dissatisfied with the seat issue. Water stains the seats, body sweat or anything that touches the seats make spots on them.

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  Great SUV for price - 2006 Kia Sorento
  By Alex - September 28 - 9:53 am

  I purchased my SUV new in Sept. 06 as I needed a reliable car for commuting to work. I have put on over 91000 miles on it and it is still drives like new. I have replaced the fluids per factory schedule and new set of tires at 60000 miles. The only minor problems are the break light bulbs had to be replaced each year and both power side mirrors stopped working recently. Power train is still going strong along with everything else. I strongly recommend this care and would by another one.

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  Beware of around town driving - 2012 Kia Sorento
  By dmcfee - September 28 - 6:07 am

  We purchased our Kia Sorento new about 6 months ago. Around town I have never gotten over 16 mpg. My lowest has been 13.4 mpg. On the highway i get 31 mpg. I took it back to the dealer and was told I had to to run few more tanks of gas then it would get better. Four more tanks and it remained about 14 mpg. I went back and the head maintenance man said I only averaged 18 mph in the city and that is why it was so low. I told him I did not expect the 22 mpg we were told it would get but had no idea it would be 7 mpg under advertised mpg. The salesman knew all my driving was around town and acted very surprised when I told him the problem. Love the car, but the gas mileage is unacceptable.

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  Transmission Problems Already? - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By Kia - Still Junk? - September 22 - 10:00 am

  I was excited to have radio controls on the steering wheel, except that I dont use them b/c its too difficult to reach & work the volume control - its on the inside of the wheel. Kia used the Seek function instead of moving you through your pre-selected stations. You may have to go thru multiple stations before you get to one you want. Its easier to reach over and change the stations on the dash! Finally, my Sorento has been towed to the dealership with only 1900 miles on it for transmission problems. Diagnosis: "their equipment wasnt working and the mechanic had gone to lunch for the next hour." Hum...Is this the start of a bad relationship?

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  I love my Sorento - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By Kristin - September 16 - 4:10 pm

  I have wanted a Sorento for about 2 years now. I finally got mine in June and I couldnt be happier. I love driving it. I have put almost 3,000 miles on it already. If I could afford it, I would have 2!

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  I had no problems, worries or hesitation - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By jamesjean - September 16 - 10:00 am

  this car is reliable

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  love my sedona - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By jlaubin - September 16 - 10:00 am

  after 6 months and 6000 miles..the car is still like new..no rattles or screw ups..it"s only been to the dealer for an oil change..the es delux package is a must.....22 mpg on the highway,,18 in town..nice stereo..

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  Pretty good so far - 2012 Kia Sorento
  By mikepm - September 15 - 11:02 pm

  Im at just about 2000 miles and thus far, the only issue Ive had is with the Bluetooth. The MPG that some people complain about I can understand a little. I can easily achieve 29mpg on highway IF and only IF I travel at speeds of 50mph to 65. The highways around here are sometimes 75-80 and Ill only get 24mpg there. Other than that, pretty good stuff.