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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  Sorento - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By kiaguy - June 4 - 10:00 am

  This car is the best value in its class. If you want an SUV without a giant price tag this is your car.

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  Quality family vehicle - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By sorrentoski - June 4 - 1:27 am

  Performs well, a little bumpy but the springs in drivers seat popped in second year. Best value in the cars we looked at, maybe saved 5K and it handles just as well. Interior is nice but fabric on seats stain pretty easy unless you upgrade. Its been a very reliable car with the recall items taken care of.

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  Best bang for the buck on 4 wheels - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By thecadean - May 31 - 6:26 am

  I am a car nut. My family of 4 share and rotate 5 autos and in any given year i will buy 2 new autos. The 2011 Sorento is one of the very best. I was worried that a 4 cylinder might be to weak to haul 3300lb around So California. I am happy to say this crossover is a champ and rides very quiet and well. The feel is tight and might be a little bumpy for some. If you do plan on towing or have lots of gear- kids you may need the 6 cyl. especially in mountain area.

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  2017 sorento - 2017 Kia Sorento
  By brad dun - May 30 - 3:46 pm

  its a comfortable car,its weakness,is gear shifting,the engine races and is slow to change when moving off at traffic lights,its city gas milage is bad,11-13 mpg in the city,it gets good on freeway when going over 50 mph,seats are too low so its hard to see,the front and back when parking or overtaking,lucky it has a reverse camera,it was good value in thanksgiving sales,it looks pretty good and is comfortable,if the transmission shifting and seats were higher it would be a great car,after driving many mountins,it cut out once in the middle of the road,another time it would not reverse,but I have not seen that problem appear,the v6 engine might be better,but it would have cost me $5000 extra,the 4 cylander is probably underpowered for the car,they should include a cover for the trunk,and remove the roof rails,they look ugly,road holding is good,i could not get cruise to work,for some reason,its a very good looking car and comfortable to drive,

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  Pay attention Honda! - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By Willoughbean - May 28 - 4:20 pm

  Just picked up a 2011 Sorento EX 2WD, 4cyl with Prem Pkg 1 and 3rd row for my wife. Bright silver with black leather--Very sharp !!. Im a Honda buyer for the last 4 cars and drive a 2010 Ridgeline now that I love, but Kia has put up a CR-v killer here in the Sorento. Better exterior looks, more interior room and better finish, all the hi tech goodies and options at a great price. Thanks for putting the factory in Georgia and a bumper to bumper warranty that backs up their fine work for 5/y ,100k and 10 years on powertrain.

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  Drove 6 SUVs and went back for the KIA - 2006 Kia Sorento
  By Jeremy - May 26 - 11:26 pm

  In June my wife and I decided we were going to get a new suv as we were expecting our first child in July. We test drove the Sorento and really liked it but I am one to take my time and do some research. So in the next two weeks we also test drove an Escape, an Equinox, and I had previously driven a Trailblazer and Durango. Needless to say nothing out could touch the amount of features & refinement the Kia Sorento has & for an unbeatable price. We ended up buying a White EX model with the sport package and could not be more happy with it. Our daughter is now 11 days old and really loves going for rides in the Sorento & there is more than enough room. I was even able to put a 7 foot ladder in it.

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  I love my Kia - 2008 Kia Sorento
  By Lea Ann - May 26 - 10:00 am

  I read so many reviews on here before I bought my Kia, so I wanted to return the favor. After much research and prayer, I bought my 08 Sorento with 7000 miles on it. Got a great price, but was apprehensive about the name. I have driven it daily for over a year and have had NO problems of any kind. I spoke at length with a Kia mechanic and he told me the 08s and later were much better designed and were on par with Toyota quality--without the price tag. I have found that to be true. Love the powerful V6 engine, sporty body style, and handling. I does ride a bit rough, as it is on an SUV frame, but I already knew it would so it doesnt bother me. Dont be afraid of the Kia name!

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  Disappointed owner - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By Tanya DeMyer - May 23 - 5:26 am

  Ive had nothing but problems with the electrical - head/tail lights out every 3-4 months, clock, interior lights, thermometer for outside temp all stopped working. Exterior paint started chipping when the car was only 2 yrs old.

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  Falling Out Of Love - 2012 Kia Sorento
  By jclaeys - May 22 - 7:42 pm

  Purchased 2012 used in Dec. with less than 5K on odo. Was impressed then with the value. Now at just 8K beginning to realize that this is a good vehicle, not a great one by any means. Probably first and foremost is service, its just completely lacking, and until KIA becomes a household name it will probably remain so. I am disappointed with the gas mileage, as I am easy on the pedal and am only able to avg. 20MPG combined 50/50. I have made countless calls and visits to the dealer for an engine that "shakes" at idle with the brakes apllied. I have to place car in neutral at every stop light. Problem is, as long as there is no engine light on, no one knows what to do. Stay clear of "4"

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  2005 Kia Sorento - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By P. McPherson - May 22 - 2:40 am

  Great car for a good price. Liked the exterior and interior and the options available. Havent had to service the vehicle except for oil changes and tire rotation.