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 everything but the infotainment! - 2016 Kia Sorento
  By Cindy Logan - September 13 - 10:34 pm

  Great car! Drives very smoothly, and the gas mileage is great for an SUV. The interior feels very upscale. It is quite comfortable. If not for riding so high, you would think you were in a regular car. I am very happy, except for the infotainment system and navigation. First, you cannot change the home screen. It automatically defaults to navigation every time you turn on the car. I dont know about most people, but Im not using navigation on a day-to-day basis, so I really dont need a map visible at all times. So, every time I get into the car, I have to switch the view to the radio/satellite screen. Why cant I choose that as my default, Kia? Second, there are 18 presets for the satellite, and you have to scroll through all 18 (or go backwards) to get back to the beginning. Not the end of the world, but kind of annoying. I ended up choosing 6 stations and programming each in three times so I can scroll through without having to go backwards. Also, the volume function is not responsive--no chance of turning the volume up or down quickly. You can spin it as fast as you want, but it still raises and lowers at the same speed. Finally, the Bluetooth works great. It connects immediately. However, the voice-activated phone book is a disaster. It rarely recognizes the name I say. Its almost not worth using. So, there are kinks in the infotainment system, but all-in-all, I am happy with my Sorento.

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  I thought it was a good idea at the time - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By MonkeyMan - September 13 - 8:30 am

  Ive had the Sorento for a year and a half now. It was in the shop for a total of 35 days and needs to go back again. Most of the time in the shop I think was due to dealer incompetence, although the transmission problem never was resolved. The vehicle shutters/buffers ALWAYS when cruising between 45-50mph. The vehicle also shimmys when applying the brakes. Also all the black plastic parts on the truck are now so faded they are almost white.

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  Poor Choice - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By wjozz5 - September 12 - 7:21 pm

  The Sorentos initial appeal, styling, interior room and optional third row, made it a reasonable initial choice. Now, at 700 miles, the Sorento is back in the dealership for a brake recall, faulty vent gate, navigation/stereo replacement and traction control inspection. The traction control continues to make noise after being engaged. The manufacturers tire choice has to be the worst in the industry. Overall this new car has done little to inspire confidence that it is a 100,000 mile car. We are going to sell it before we are too disappointed to hide it.

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  In Your Favor - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By SilvrSorento - September 11 - 10:00 am

  We have had our vehicle since July of this year which really is only a short time, but so far without a doubt, it has shown me everything I wanted and expected in a mid-sized SUV in its price range. I have to agree with the Editors and other Consumer ratings! I find it an excellent buy and a "hard to beat" warranty. Im anxiously awaiting winter and the bad weather to see how we will fair....a good snow this year will be a good test for the 4x4. With a positive answer this winter, I would say "everything is in favor of a Winner"

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  loving my sorento - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By norma - September 11 - 10:00 am

  I did several months of researching SUVs before my purchase and found the Sorento to be the best SUV for my money. It has features that even my Chrysler luxury car didnt have! Its fun to drive and very comfortable. With the warranty Kia offers Im hoping that Ill drive it untils its paid for which would certainly be a change for me!

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  Rides like a sedan - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By Marion - September 8 - 11:00 pm

  I bought this car used and have been happy with it. It has the smoothest ride of a SUV I have ever experienced. The backseat is very roomy for a smaller SUV. The main annoyance I have with it is that it burns through lights like crazy. I am replacing bulbs about every 2 months. I have been pulled over for it also. It is hard to keep up with replacing the bulbs. Check your lights for proper working order on a daily basis.

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  Sorento EX ,great suv for your money - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By trawets20 - September 7 - 2:00 am

  My wife and I bought our Sorento in January, and it only has 1,300 miles on it,but so far its been great.We test drove many other small and midsize suvs,before we finally settled on the Sorento.It is very roomy, and the interior is very well constructed,compared to others we test drove.People often give compliments on the sharp styling and 16"alloy wheels.For the price of the ex sorento ,we got alot more suv,and features than any of the other makes we looked at, like (SaturnVue,Mitsubishi outlander,Ford escape,Honda crv,Hyundai sant fe).We are very satisfied with our Sorento>

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  Gas Guzzler - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By jeffp - September 4 - 8:36 pm

  Overall nice vehicle poor gas economy

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  Love my 2016 Kia Sorento! - 2016 Kia Sorento
  By Kristen Glidewell - September 4 - 5:43 pm

  After a lot of shopping for SUVs with a 3rd row, I made the decision to purchase the Kia Sorento. The car looks and rides like a $50,000 SUV, but at a fraction of the price. I am typically drawn to European cars, but feel this car offers all the luxuries I am accustomed to with the backing of a 100,000 mile warranty. One additional selling point for me was the large amount of usable cargo space. Many of the newer SUVs have a significant sloping to the back window, which is not practical for 3rd row occupants or dogs. The Kia Sorento gives my 3 furry friends significant head room in the back. There is also an air conditioning vent in the 3rd row so my pups can stay cool. My kids love the car too. They have always been spoiled with their rides and this car is no different. We are very happy with the fit and finish of the car.

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  Best SUV for the money. - 2017 Kia Sorento
  By Frank - September 4 - 12:48 pm

  Nothing negative from my vehicle so far.The most impressive is the engine.Almost 300 hp propels this SUV down the road quickly and effortlessly.At 80 mph it is barley working.Ride and quiet much improved.I owned a 2012 and a 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe and the improvements in the 2017 Sonota are very apparent.Gas milage at 75 mph is about 25.5. I would expect thirty at speed limits.Regular gas no problem.We love it and cant wait for our first road trip.