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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  2011 Kia Sorento LX - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By jlwear - April 14 - 10:00 am

  Initially, we never considered a Sorento, but the new 2011 proved to be a pleasant surprise. We needed space for cargo and carrying the grandchildren. AWD was a requirement due to rural roads. The 3rd row seats were the best we saw within our price range and the ride exceeded our expectations in this price class. All in all, I would consider this vehicle as best in class. I hope it as dependable as it feels.

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  The Sorento is a Blast! - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By DElliot - April 10 - 2:00 am

  Weve had our Sorento for four months and it remains the only car Ive ever had (out of about 20) that seems to be worth considerably more than what I paid for it. It is a blast to drive and the engine has enough torque to embarass many V-8s off the line. Since Kia hired Porsche to do the suspension tuning, the stiff ride is understandable and in my view, preferable. When you factor in the double five-star crash test results-- what a deal! Im so glad I didnt get a Lexus RX 300 or a BMW X5.

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  good deal for the money - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By greg2174 - April 9 - 10:13 pm

  everything i expected when i bought it. got it for my wife in december 2011 as a christmas gift.i bought because of the price when all the dealing and haggling around with the dealer was done i gave 20k for it. has done fine so far.now it is no tahoe or pilot or acadia but it didnt have the 30k to 40k price tag that thoes model have either.our last five vehicles have fouty thousand plus dollars and had some of the same problems people have described on here about the sorento.may i remind people it is a 20k dollar vehicle if you want to have the bling bling effect of a bmw and the ride of a mercedes and the resale value of a lexus the i suggest you open your wallet and get one of thoes .

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  safety in question - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By Carl Berger - April 6 - 7:26 am

  The suspension is very bad, it sounds like an old car that needs new struts and shocks when you go over a rough road. I took it back to the dealer and they said thats the way it is. I question the safety because of the suspension. I wish i could something different because of the safety issue.

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  good vehical - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By gachase21 - April 3 - 2:00 am

  good car, would recomend buying it, like the quality and inside the most

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  Great SUV Value for Your Buck - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By KathyS - April 3 - 2:00 am

  I did a lot of research when I decided to buy an SUV. I wanted a moderate price, a good warranty, and a lot of luxury in a great looking car. Sounds like a lot to ask for, right? But the Sorento has exceeded my expectations so far. I get compliments on the looks of the car. The warranty is the best in the business. The luxurious interior and great features with the luxury package leave me wanting for nothing. Who needs navigation anyway with Mapquest?!?

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  MY KIA SORENTO EX - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By EFREN HERNANDEZ - April 3 - 2:00 am

  AT FIRST I SAID KIA? THEN I WENT ON A TEST DRIVE AND I LOVED IT. THE PRICE AND OPTIONS ON THE SUV ARE MORE THAN WHAT EXPECTED FROM THIS KOREAN SUV I LOOKED AT MANY SUV IN SAME PRICE RANGE AND GOT LESS OPTIONS,STRIP DOWN SUVS THAT WERE NOT FUN TO DRIVE WITH BASIC EQUIPMENT.

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  A CAR AND A HALF - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By GUMTEM - March 29 - 10:00 am

  This vehicle is beautiful wild raging animal under control just rearing to go. It surges and turns on a dime upon command and yet, with all that horse power under the hood, purrs like a domestic kitten. For me, definately the best buy for an SUV on todays market.

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  !!! MUST BUY !!! - 2016 Kia Sorento
  By M S - March 24 - 2:18 am

  I just bought a loaded 2016 KIA Sorento SXL with the Technology Package and the 3.3 peppy V6 . Having owned a Lexus RX before, luxury SUV and KIA was simply not on my radar until I inadvertently came across an online article about this Sorento that piqued my interest. So after 18 hours of online research and watching YouTube video reviews, I was amazed to read the many glowing written reviews and hear the positive video reviews of this newly designed seven seat Sorento. A trip to the KIA dealer ensued and I am so glad to have went. This 2016 KIA Sorento SXL blew me away when I saw it up close and drove it. Rick Jacobs at Fucillo KIA knew this SUV inside and out, he answered every question I threw at him. With the Sorentos luxurious curb appeal, the way it handled, its numerous safety features, its voice activated navigation, long warranty and beautiful two tone ivory and black Nappa leather interior, I was hooked. After 6 months of driving my Kia Sorento, I am completely satisfied! It is everything I had hoped and expected this SUV to be. There have been no issues at all!!! Incredibly quiet cabin and comfortable Nappa leather makes driving this Sorento a pleasure. Would definitely encourage others to buy this vehicle!!!

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  Our Kia Sorento - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By GUS - March 23 - 10:30 pm

  I had never seen a Kia Sorento until June of 2003 when my wife and I drove past the dealership and my eye caught sight of an elegant new SUV. I got reverse sticker shock when I found out it was considerably less than the competitions and had elegant appointments. I took the car home for one day and could find NO bad points about the Sorento. Even the 15 MPG city is comparable (as it is a truck). I bought it the next day and have loved it ever since. I have owned it 5 yrs and 1 mo. Now and my only complaint was every bulb on the car has gone out at least once (most of them twice). It is smooth comfortable and responsive but keep in mind its a truck so pot holes give ya a jolt..THX KIA