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 it! - 2006 Kia Sorento
  By Laney - April 27 - 11:50 am

  I absolutely love this car! Everyone stops me and cant believe its a Kia, it looks more like the Acura SUV, at a fraction of the price. Gas isnt great but what SUV is. My mom is buying the same car now and my friend is even looking into it. Fabulous!

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  Unreliable car. - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By nat16 - April 25 - 8:33 am

  "I have Kia Sorrento for 4 months only and it was in repairs twice already! 4000 miles on the car. Last month was an oil leak.This month - the transmission stopped shiffting and I couldnot stop the car! Unreliable! I always bought american cars and had them for 10-11 years, with regular wear and tear. This is the first time that I decided to buy non-american car, and let me tell you, you get what you pay for! GARBAGE!!! For $ 6000 more you can buy Ford or Jeep and have no problems! Do not buy this car, unless you want to have a big problem in a couple of months."

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  You couldnt pay me to buy another Kia! - 2006 Kia Sorento
  By mm2kanda - April 24 - 5:53 am

  We purchased our Kia new Feb. 2006 when it had about 18 miles on it. In less then 6 months the check engine light came on. Not a big fan of dealerships but assuming things are under warranty we take it to the dealership in the town we live in. We are told its not covered anymore by about 800 miles ago (CO2 sensor). We fixed it ourselves. Light still randomly comes on and goes off. We blow headlamps what had been about 3-6 months apart but now as soon as 10 days. My dash light has been randomly going off for about a year and now my dome light randomly goes on. Our dome light stopped working correctly 2 years ago. Very uncomfortable on long trips especially for tall men. Just a gag car!

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  Saved by my KIA - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By tony m. - April 21 - 8:36 am

  My wife and I bought our Sorrento by total LUCK!! She saw one, told me about it,and as they say "The rest is history." We did extensive research on it,and felt we couldnt lose. Unforunately,we were slammed on the left side at approximately 40-45 mph knocking us over. The other vehicle as well as my, sorento was totaled and my wife,son(6yrs),myself not a scratch. If safety is a priority,then fear not,We can vouch for it.Safety,looks,overall quality, rest assured WE WILL BUY ANOTHER SORENTO!! Remember at one time Honda was a laughing stock in the car community. If Kia stays on course with their products,they will soon be at the top. Thanks KIA!! Sincerely!!

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  Very Pleased - 2008 Kia Sorento
  By Nik - April 17 - 2:00 am

  I test drove many vehicles and the Sorento proved to be the smoothest ride out of those tested in my price range. I had heard negative feedback from the older versions of KIA vehicles which made me nervous but I decided to take a chance based on the look, feel and value for my money. It turned out to be a great choice! Very quiet and smooth. Im loving it!

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  Worth The Money - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By kia mama - April 16 - 10:00 am

  I passed a Kia dealership one day while out with my children. I saw the "back" of this SUV and said "what is that"? They said thats a Kia Sorrento. I had never heard of, or seen one before. I went back to the dealership to get a better look and really liked what I saw. Not wanting to be a guinny pig I was leary about buying a vehicle new to the market, but the warranty sold me along with the price. Nine months later, I am very happy with my Sorrento. I have, and would recommend it to others...for the price, you cant match it or beat it!

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  KIA sorrento - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By slider - April 16 - 10:00 am

  Kia is not a good vehicle. I have had many unresolved complaints with the Sorrento we currently own. i will never own any vehicle like this again.

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  KIA Sorento - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By Prosecutor - April 16 - 10:00 am

  Great ride. A thinking mans Lexus.

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  You get what you pay for.... - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By metsajc89 - April 16 - 7:40 am

  I purchased my kia sorento in march of 2010. I live in New York and during the summer, the car is good. Drives well, with the 4 cyl, it is a little weak but can get up to highway driving with no problem. During the winter, the car is a piece of garbage. Not sure if the AWD is better but I feel like there is a lot of problems with the weight and durability of the car. It is very light and slips and slides all over the road. I leased the car and glad I give it back in a year. Overall, if you are not looking to spend a ton of money on a car every month, great car and I would recommend, just look at the pros and cons of the car.

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  Safety defect in manual transmission - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By Rick - April 15 - 11:00 am

  We have a highly intermittent problem with manual tranny. From time to time we cant shift gears or get the car to move which puts us in a dangerous situation (has happened downshifting in intersections, upshifting pulling out into traffic, etc.)/ As this is a safety defect we are seriously concerned & have reported the problem to KIA & NHTSA. Due to it being an intermittent one, unfortunately when KIA has test driven it they cannot duplicate the problem and refuse to take further action to diagnose the transmission and related components. We are concerned if we trade/sell we are passing an unsafe car to another unsuspecting consumer but we may have no other choice due to KIAs indifference.