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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  Great SUV for the money! - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By nampa45 - December 28 - 10:00 am

  We purchased our Sorento recently and have been very pleased with it in the short time we have owned it. It rides great, with no squeeks or rattles and we would recommend this vehicle to anyone who is interested in a 4WD SUV. The price is very reasonable compared to other higher priced brands on the market.

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  More fun than it looks - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By David J. Phoenix - December 26 - 9:13 pm

  I bought a new Sorento because it is built in my county in Kias first American plant. The styling is head- turning and a far cry from the basic designs that Kia first brought to this country. The interior is modern and has a premium feel, especially with all the controls on the steering- wheel, including Bluetooth (which is standard). The test drive on a winding road showed the car to be agile but never. The 2.4L engine also had plenty of guts to easily complete any two- lane overtaking moves asked of it. The three-hour ride home from the dealer revealed the car to also be an excellent long distance car as well. Fun to drive + Long distance comfort + lots of gadgets as standard = a great car.

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  Dont Love My Kia - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By Dont love my Kia - December 25 - 10:20 am

  I bought my Kia new because it gave me so much for such a great price, and I love the look. However, I have had it in the shop for repairs at least 8 times in three years. If they cant replicate the issue they dont acknowledge it. I even created the terrible noise for the representative, but because the service manager couldnt do it, they changed nothing. There are many rattles, I have had to replace the windshield washer twice, the battery had to be replaced, the suspension has had multiple problems. Several lights have been replaced. Nothing huge but all very annoying - Im looking to get rid of it before something else goes!

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  05 Sorento - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By Jim T - December 24 - 3:06 am

  Overall, I give it a B-. Lets face it, its no Lexus. That being said, my criticism is this. I am 6 foot tall and 195 lbs. The emergency brake handle is a nuisance, being constantly buried in my right leg. Also, the intermittent wiper switch is noisy and the wiper on the upstroke stops dead center of drivers vision. Paint finish also a little suspect, easily chips. Gas mileage average, 16.5 mpg combined. Nothing has gone wrong mechanically to date, no complaints.

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  Best Buy - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By amy564 - December 22 - 10:00 am

  I did my homework and test drove quite a few SUVs, but this one took best overall in my opinion. If you want an SUV that can maneuver and accelerate well with great reliability this is the one. I would compare it to a sports car/SUV. I am very happy with it to say the least. I also like that it can tow my 17 Searay with ease. I highly recomend this SUV to anyone in the market for greated priced and well equiped SUV.

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  trucks except dealer stinks - 2006 Kia Sorento
  By hsanantonio - December 18 - 11:46 am

  I love this truck. I used to own a US built, but that will never happen again. The performance is great. After changing to a k&n filter, the truck handled a long drive of 3k miles. I owned a Sephia before and loved the reliability of it.

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  Kia Sorento - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By Blair - December 17 - 11:13 am

  I test drove numerous SUVs and for the price, there is no comparison. The Kia is an excellent choice for value and styling.

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  Excellent Car and Amazing Value - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By lug1115 - December 17 - 7:13 am

  Picked up a fully loaded EX V6 AWD and it is truly a great car. And its not only the price; the car can go toe to toe with any other car in its class and win. The fact that it is thousands less than competing vehicles is just icing on the cake. I did a significant amount of research on the Sorento and other CUVs in its class, and none of the others came close to what the Sorento could offer, both in terms of features as well as price. As other reviewers here on Edmunds and elsewhere have noted, the ride is firm, but it is controlled; its not the bone-jarring sea-saw of a ride others have made it out to be. As a near mid-size crossover, it handles as it should and exceeds expectations!

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  Great for the money I paid - 2013 Kia Sorento
  By Juan Sanchez - December 15 - 9:13 pm

  Make sure the tires are in good shape, even the new tires can be flat due to excessive parking and not moving it on the dealer, I have to change the tires one week after I got it, and of course for being an used car the dealer wouldnt take any responsibility about it... for the rest its a great car good gas saving for an SUV. Very convenient for more than 5 passengers, the infinity sound system is amazing, A/C is great even in the second and third row seats. Very reliable car.

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  Good SUV for the price - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By Tim - December 10 - 12:50 pm

  Good vehicle for the money. Fun to drive, quiet and so far seems durable. Could do better on fuel economy. Wish the steering wheel controls were lighted.