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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  Enjoying the Ride - 2007 Kia Sorento
  By tennisfan - November 20 - 8:26 am

  Well after 2 years of ownership, I have to say its been a fun suv. The only issue ive had has been a change of the rotors at 3k miles, which was covered by the warranty. Ive had my oil changed and the 2yr service completed. Installed a pioneer head unit because I wanted ipod and bluetooth support. Sounds great with the factory speakers. Looking forward to the 2011 Sorento.

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  I am pretty much blown away. - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By Lmundy - November 16 - 5:40 am

  My wife has a tiny convertible, so I need to drive the "hauler" and while my V6 Escape had been trouble free, it had over 100,000 miles. I decided I wanted to look for better mileage, a little more cargo room, but still a compact truckette. Drove them all, liked the Forester best. Then I saw a blurb on History Channels "Modern Marvels" about how the Sorento is made at the new factory in Georgia. Drove it, bought it, love it. The construction and finish quality from the billion dollars worth of robots is amazing, and the thought that went into the design is very impressive, I think. Note: you have to rate "reliability" on this site. I have 2000 miles, what do I know? Great warranty!

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  kia sorento - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By lars - November 16 - 2:00 am

  excellent interior design, lousy gas mileage around 15 mpg. great ride, smooth even on harsh roads.

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  sorento my new friend - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By tumminia - November 16 - 2:00 am

  I have just purchased a new Sorento and I am very happy. I was skepticle of Kia after my experience with the 02 Spectra and the loud whistling noise from my windows while driving but have been extremely impressed with the spacious and quiet interior. Very well built and fun to drive.

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  Great SUV, very dependable & comfortable - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By Tom B - November 15 - 1:36 pm

  Purchased new, now have 50K+ miles, my daughter drives it. Never a break down! Very comfortable, and dependable. Typical maintenance issue you have with any car...change brake pads, tires, oil (no surprise) but never any big problems. Two items replaced under warranty...no big deal.

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  Great Vehicle - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By Monica - November 6 - 6:33 pm

  I moved up to a Sorento from a mustang. This car is almost as much fun to drive. It is well equipped, stylish and it handles great. If you are looking for a new vehicle you have to test drive the new Sorento. I was not sure I wanted an SUV. I started looking at the Honda Accord but after test driving both i felt more comfortable in the Sorento and love it more each time I drive it.

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  Lots of good, some things to work on - 2016 Kia Sorento
  By Sorentina - October 29 - 1:52 am

  Had my LX V6 over a year now. Great ride. Nice finishings. Gas mileage almost always EXCEEDS the 18/26 posted. On highway, I usually get about 30 mpg- wirh a V6 engine! Car insurance is starting to go down but it can be pricier than other SUV in its class. Something to keep in mind. Driver seat is nicely shaped but slightly firm. The wing-up edges can pose a challenge for those with mobility issues requiring help getting into the 2 front seats. Plenty of leg room in the front and back. I enjoy driving it a lot but I have a list of a few things KIA could do to really spruce things up: 1. Please add adjustable brakes. Brakes are a little mushy if youre a light-footed breaker. 2. Please, please PLEASE add the option to silence that annoying alarm that rings when its 40F outside. Its annoying and startling at times!! 3. Its hard to wash the top of the back window with that fin in the way- esp with the squeegee. Can that fin be reshaped or removed? 4. Its annoying that you cant change the radio station when the backup camera is on. Really?! Also, with the wheel radio control, you can only change the radio position one station at a time. Would be nice to be able to hit the button 4 times and actually go up or down 4 presets. 5. Please, please, PLEASE, KIA add the Global Open-Windows feature to the remote. It would be a god send for people like me with heat intolerance. PLEASE!!! 6. Daytime running lights on L, LX models, please! 7. Would appreciate a rubber cargo mat for 7-passenger cargo area when seats are folded down rather than the less-than-helpful carpeted cargo mat available. 8. Automatic up and down driver window feature is nice but it takes a lot of finessing to adjust the auto-down if you need interrupt it. 9. UVO system is OK on LX- nothing spectacular. KIA- please make the 7"/8" navigation system standard. The Sorento is a good value and a nice drive, despite my little nit picks. But I think its the little things that separate good cars from the great ones. Sorento is not a disappointment but a good car that has the potential to be a really great one with a little attention to details that make the driving experience even more of a pleasure.

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  Best Value SUV - 2008 Kia Sorento
  By Todd Roberson - October 26 - 9:03 pm

  My wife and I just purchased our 2008 Kia Sorento. We had a 2006 Nissan Murano and was overwhelmed by the Sorento quality and price. We was able to upgrade to the top of the line including DVD, leather, sunroof etc. We took a couple of days to decide but thats just because of the color of the vehicle (midnight Blue /gray) and we could not be happier with our decision. Key issues was the turning ratio, torque, comfort and style of the exterior and interior. No complaints!

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  It cant get better than this - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By Basic Old Bob - October 26 - 2:23 am

  Ive had my new Sorento only 3 days and less than 200 miles, yet the car is built like a champ. It doesnt have AWD but with the front wheel drive and all of the safety systems I do not believe I will need the upgrade for New Yorks Hudson Valley. The safety and tech features are either unmatched or very rarely matched for the selling price. AND you dont have to pay extra for the longer warranty and road side assistance. The 4 cylinder engine/6 spd transmission is plenty of power for this car in city, country & highway driving (thankfully I wasnt stopped).

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  Happy with car expectations/price - 2012 Kia Sorento
  By duriem - October 25 - 6:24 pm

  We bought this car new directly from the dealer. After check out all possible options in the market, the KIA SORENTO was unbeatable compared to the competence (TOyota, Honda, Hyundai, etc). Great warranty and value for the price it sales!