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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  His & Hers Sorentos - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By Susan & Will - August 15 - 2:00 am

  My husband and I both bought 2003 Sorentos in February, 2003. Weve owned an Expedition, Jimmy, several Blazers, and a Grand Cherokee Laredo. We both agree by far that the Sorento is the best value for the money. It is comfortable, peppy, handles well and is solid. Just a fun vehicle to drive. I thought before test driving that it would feel cheap and plastic like...NOT! My husband calls it a Lexus knockoff. I plan to drive mine until the wheels fall off! Enjoy!

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  Not very impressed - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By momof2 - August 15 - 12:26 am

  I bought the car used, was told that it is in great condition, well not a week later we were in the shop for a noise that I cant even explain, was told by KIA mechanic that it is the ABS doing a self check, the sound has never gone away, then received a recall for a crank shaft bolt the had to have the rear door hinge replaced and the light bulbs are constantly burning out, and now the Check engine light keeps coming on for a transmission code p0700, and I was told there is nothing wrong with the car. I will never buy another KIA again, the people that work there are rude and they need to make a better vehicle.

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  Really like this car but with minor tweaks it would be great - 2013 Kia Sorento
  By mkc1 - August 14 - 8:08 am

  I really like this car. It looks good and the ride is smooth and very quite. The V6 has good get up and go. I test drove the 4 cylinder GTL and felt it lacked power. This model comes fully loaded and has great features. It doesnt however get the stated gas mileage. I get around 22 in the city and 24 - 25 highway. I recommend this car for the price and the warranty but it would be an awesome car with a few tweaks.

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  KIA SORENTO - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By DRRO3 - August 10 - 10:00 am

  THIS HAS TO BE THE BEST SUV ON THE MARKET TODAY. IT LOOKS SLEEK, STYLISH AND DOESNT COST A FORTUNE. I RECOMMEND IT FOR ANYONE LOOKING FOR A LOW COST AUTOMOBILE THAT IS DEPENDABLE AND SAFE AS IT IS GOOD LOOKING.

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  Kia - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By RBHarris942 - August 8 - 8:23 pm

  This is a great car! Fun to drive, powerful, easy to run 80-90 without realizing it. This car gives very good value for the money! An exceptional car! Quality equal to or better than Toyota or Honda.

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  Shoulda bought a 4 runner - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By QCYNCY - August 7 - 3:36 pm

  Wife bought the car new in 2003. We have 70K on it now and to be honest, Im surprised it has been as reliable as it had been. Still, the maint schedule is unreasonable, $$, and he dealerships are completely incompetent. Last three times I needed to take the car back after maint because of dealer error. Will say the car has been off road on NE beaches all 5 summers about 60 trips in all and never had an offroad perf problem. Bought this over 4 runner because it offered leather,moonroof and warrnty for a few grand less than 4 runner. Stripped 4 runner is now worth 4K more at trade in than this though! if you can do w/o some options, there are better cars with better resale than KIA.

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  Terrible car---do not buy. Major engine trouble - 2016 Kia Sorento
  By J swanson - August 6 - 7:09 am

  Major engine issues at 60,000 miles. Kia will not honor warranty. Warning. Do not buy from Kia

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  drove it across the U.S.A. - Very good - 2006 Kia Sorento
  By Jack - August 2 - 1:00 am

  Purchased in March 2006 and drove it across the entire U.S. Very comfortable and performed great. My neighbor borrowed it for a few hours and absolutely enjoyed the SUV.

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  Kept my family safe in a serious collision! - 2016 Kia Sorento
  By Laura - July 30 - 8:31 am

  Coming off of a Lexus RX, I was concerned that it wouldnt feel as luxurious. Although its stiffer and less "designed", I fell in love with the Sorento immediately upon driving it off the lot. Its tough but not trucky, comfortable but not couch-like, and big but not cumbersome. It has great pick up and drives like a car, and I happen to think it looks pretty darn cute on the road. Having said this, the reason Im writing this review is that I was in my first car accident in my 38 years just this week. I was T-boned, and before I knew what had happened I realized the car was flipping. SUVs by nature may be more likely to roll, and that may be a deterant to some, but in this instance I think it was a blessing. I believe the roll helped lessen the force of the hit, which struck my childs door. As I understand it, T-Bones can be very catastrophic, especially to the person in the receiving seat. Between the airbags, restraints, and general contour of the car, when the car came to rest we were completely unscathed. Completely. The moment I can, I will go get another Sorento and will feel safer than ever. And thank you to the designers of this car for helping me walk away with my son!

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  Satisfied User - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By boombats - July 22 - 10:00 am

  Very satisfied ,wanted a 4 Runner but bought instead for cost.Didnt want a wimpy crossover SUV because of lack of real 4w/d.Excellent fit & finish in & out. Great styling,nice interior.Ride a little choppy but its a truck.Easy to drive and fun.Power is good but sure would like the 245 h/p like Honda.Cruises great & no problem passing or entering highway.