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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  caveat emptor - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By mhuntz - September 4 - 12:08 pm

  dont be fooled by the "rating" for this vehicle. most posts prior to 2007 are positive. after that, a precipitous fall off in satisfaction. intoxication from "new car smell, "i love yous" and chocolates (in the form of warranty promises from Kia) subside. after the romance, sobriety sets in. the love in the relationship gets tested. and when the $$$ strain hits the relationship, your lover (Kia) tells you to no longer believe in their commitment to the relationship. ("sorry about misleading you" , they exclaim, as they refuse to honor their vows (warranty coverage). Best get a divorce from this loser. Hope you had a pre-nup.

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  Good, but - 2017 Kia Sorento
  By Mike Crowe - September 2 - 2:53 am

  We liked vehicle, but had problem from start of lease with poor shifting at 40-50 range. All dealer would respond is that no computer errors show.

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  Love the Kia Sorento - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By ghorras - September 1 - 2:14 am

  We had such good luck with our 2004 Sorento it was an easy decision to buy a 2011. Its my wifes car and she loves everything about it, the only issue we had was an oil leak but Kia took care of it just fine. Last Friday my wife was driving to work and was involved in a head on collision, and her car suffered major damage to the front end and is totaled. But she walked away without a scratch, and was able to go to work the same day! When I asked her what she wanted for her next car, and the answer was a new Sorento!

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  love my kia and hyundia - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By rkress3338 - August 28 - 10:00 am

  i purchased a hyundai last year and a kia this year. i love them both. run great and have had no trouble with either. jealous of my wifes Kia. think it looks better than mine. as a matter of fact it looks inside and out almost identical to a Lexus

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  2011 Kia Sorento - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By Bob - August 26 - 6:03 pm

  The Sorento looks and acts expensive, however, is very affordable. The V6 offers plenty of power, for full loads or towing, and purrs along smoothly and effortlessly thanks to the 6-speed automatic transmission. Shifts are smooth and unrecognizable, however, under full throttle, responds with noticable torque. Plus, it runs on 87 octaine. The key less entry and push button starter are fun, but keeps you wondering where the house key is. The Bluetooth commands do not recognize voice commands very well. The 3rd row seating hides nicely when not in use and are easily brought into function for younger passengers. Overall, the Sorento looks and is impressive and fun to drive.

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  Some Good and Some Not so Good - 2016 Kia Sorento
  By Jon - August 26 - 5:10 pm

  We’ve only had the Sorento 7 months, but our first impressions are some good and some not so good. First the good things: 1. Love the body design and overall exterior and interior look of the vehicle. 2. The ride is very smooth and quiet, with ample power for passing and hopping on the freeway. 3. Gas mileage is above what they rated it to be. We’re getting over 25 mpg on highway and 21-22 in the city. and thats in the 7 passenger, 6 cylinder, 3.3 liter SX 4. It has a very short turning-radius for that long a vehicle. 5. The shifting is very smooth and the manual shifting works very good for driving in winding, steep mountain roads. 6. There’s ample leg-room in all 3 rows of seats, but the headroom (with a sunroof) is a little too low in the 3rd row of seats. 7. I like the manual shifting capability. It makes driving on winding mountain roads a lot easier on the brake pads. 8. The blind-spot warning and reverse warning systems work well to assist in driving. The visibility when backing up is not as good as wed like, so the backup camera and warning system help in that regard. 9. I like that the leg room along the "hump" (console area) next to your right leg is much better than in many of the other vehicles we test-drove--like the Nissan Murano and Infiniti QX30. Some of the not so good features are: 1. Entering and exiting the 3rd row seats is a slightly difficult. 2. The front seats are a little too firm, and the power lumbar is still noticeable even when fully contracted. 3. The steering wheel position could be allowed to go lower and farther out. 4. I liked the CVT transmission on our traded in Murano, so I do miss that smooth, quiet shifting.

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  poor mileage - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By Randal McEwen - August 23 - 4:10 pm

  I purchased this auto based on research. One of the main reasons was for the advertised mileage.I have to say I am extremely dissapointed. I normally drive my autos ten or more years,but not this one.

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  I Love my Sorento! - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By MAF - August 19 - 10:36 am

  I have only had my Sorento for a few weeks, but WOW! I cant find anything negative to say about it. I traded in an 04 Jeep Liberty and dont miss it a bit. This Sorento is everything I wanted and then some.

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  Huge disappointment!!!!! - 2012 Kia Sorento
  By macgirl1 - August 16 - 7:11 pm

  We purchased this vehicle in Dec.12 and it has been the worst vehicle purchase we have ever made. The fuel economy on this vehicle has been awful. Weve been getting 14-17mpg with combined driving, no where near the promised 21-28mpg. Not only that the drive is sluggish, with little power. We have contacted Kia Motor America for support and been told there is nothing they can do even though our Sorento is not performing the way they promise it will. In my experience Kia does not stand behind their promises and I wouldnt recommend the Sorento and we will not buy another Kia. Our Sorento has been a huge letdown and Kias response to our problems has been an even bigger dissappointment.

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  Big Mistake - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By Dee Dee - August 15 - 4:20 am

  I traded in a 4Runner for the Kia Sorento back in June. The 4Runner was just too big for me. I thought that this would be a good compromise. During the test drive I was taken on smooth highway roads. As soon as I got onto my neighborhood roads, WOW, the loudest road noise I have ever had in a car. I also apparently have the known defect of the right front strut. Sounds like thunder going over even the smallest bumps. Turning up the radio doesnt help at all. The red lights under the door handles are very off putting. I wish I was told about them before I bought the car. Test drive it at night! Not very pleasant interior lighting. The radio and navigation get stuck often.