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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  Worth a look - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By kiafamily - December 9 - 11:46 pm

  We bought our Sorento with 35K on it; it now has over 50K, and we havent had a single maintenance problem with it. Comfort, cargo space, performance and looks are all excellent. My wife can fit a full load of groceries in the back with a big jogger stroller with room to spare. Snow and wet weather traction are both wonderful. My only complaint is gas mileage. On the highway in the summer, it gets 21- 22mpg (pretty good), but in the city in winter, youre talking 14-16 mpg (OI!). For any family of four or less looking for a good quality SUV for cheap money compared to Honda, Toyota and Nissan, this is definitely worth a look!

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  none - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By markf - December 8 - 10:00 am

  Wonderful ride, great price and awsome warranty

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  Sorentos Rock! - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By Kia 4 Me - December 8 - 10:00 am

  Simply put, its great! After driving various models I was surprised to find the Sorento competes most closly with the benchmark Lexus (in terms of comfort/conveinence/performance) than any others tested (15 models). Ill write again once the odometer hits 30k to let you know reliability. The downside: Avg MPG Real competitors in size/weight/hp (Lexus/Jeep/Ford) avg better, but the safty, room, ride quality, cabin quiteness, and solid construction cannot be had until you practically double the price! If you do the math (gas @ 2.00 per gallon and 15K miles per year)the gas "savings" you get will take 23-37 YEARS of driving to realize!

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  Bad MPGs!!! - 2015 Kia Sorento
  By jesse4964 - December 4 - 3:47 am

  Purchased a 2015 for my wife and after 1400 miles we are still only getting 14 to 18 mpg. Kia says it has a break in period and that we should be getting 20 to 27 mpg after 3000 miles. We only purchased this car because of the mpgs we thought we were going to get, should have just kept our 07 Honda CRV. After a few years we will be getting rid of this vehicle and wont look at Kia again.

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  Great SUV! - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By BSeverson - November 29 - 2:00 am

  I bought my Kia used in 2007. I had never even driven a Kia before this one and was a little uneasy about buying one. Turns out its one of the best cars I have ever owned. Perfect size for the family(wife and two kids). With good storage in the back and a decent roof rack. Love that it has full size tires and not the barbie doll ones like on the Sportage. Okay the wife is out of the room now, let me tell you what I really think! This car is beast! I live in Colorado where it can snow pretty good and when you put this thing in 4x4 and mash the pedal it can take you places. Im talking 4 ft tall drifts sometimes 20 ft across and this KIA got me across them. I have proof the car can take a beating.

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  Great vehicle - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By Bravo - November 22 - 10:00 am

  I love my Kia. I get alot of complaments from people I know and dont know. The ride is smooth and it is an affordable suv with luxury options. It looks like a lexus, feels like one, has all the options for half the price. Overall this is a great vehicle. My next vehicle will be a newer model of the Sorento.

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  Great Deal for the Money! - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By Tara - November 20 - 4:10 pm

  Ive had my Kia for a year and I absolutely love it! I had to take it in for a recall for the passenger airbag sensor and also for a broken clip on the seatbelt and in the overhead console. Outside of these minor issues, I have nothing negative to report. The car provides an excellent ride and is comparable to other SUVs in regards to gas consumption. I only have to fill up once a month under local driving conditions. Auto reviews that I have read provide a really accurate description in all aspects. The only negative that I have found, which is exactly what has been reported in reviews I have read, is that you definitely feel the potholes and bumps that you hit. Great deal for the money!

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  Best SUV for the money - 2017 Kia Sorento
  By Carlover - November 20 - 11:22 am

  Leased this SUV for 3 years this past week. I choose the snow white pearl with merlot leather interior. I traded 2 other vehicles in for this one as my wife and I didnt need 2 since we are retired. I have leased over 20 vehicles in the past 20 years including BMW, Mercedes, Audi and Lexus. The Sorento is one of the best vehicles I have ever leased. I have the SX with Advanced Technology package which includes Lane Departure Warning, Advanced smart cruise control, Forward Collision Warning Autonomous Emergency Warning and Electronic Parking Brake. I added remote start and Home link rear view mirror. The build quality is exceptional, doors close with a solid thud like the German cars, and interior quality is as good or better than Lexus RX350. Interior noise levels are exceptionally low with no tire hiss being heard in the rain which makes listening to the very good 10 speaker Infinity sound system even better. Heated and ventilated front seats are great along with the heated steering wheel. The 3rd row isnt that roomy but I will probably not use it that much but cargo room behind the second row is very good. If you will use the 3rd row often this may not be your best choice. Reliability isnt known yet since I only have 650 miles on the SUV. I hope this helps anyone looking to purchase an suv.

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  Great car, great value - 2012 Kia Sorento
  By newcarshoppe - November 13 - 2:48 pm

  Purchased my EX, GDI engine in Novermber 11 and after 3.500 miles I have been very pleased with every aspect of the car. Im averaging 23 mpg in and around town (San Antonio) and as high as 33 mpg on the highway. No complaints about the mileage. Fit and finish and styling inside and out continue to get complaments from my friends. When I purchased the car I had narrowed it down to the Toyota Venza and the Sorento. Although both cars have a very firm suspension, the Venza was choppy and the Sorento was much smoother. I think the duel flow damper shocks make the difference.

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  Love the pfeformance -Hate the headlights - 2017 Kia Sorento
  By Mark W - November 13 - 10:33 am

  Car has good performance. Interior is comfortable. Only problem have with the car is the headlights. They throw a shadow about half way down and all the way across the windshield. The lights look like somebody drew a line across in front of you and it is difficult to seen what is ahead of you. Very poor design and is A SAFEY CONCERN. I travel several times a year at night to northern Arizona and with a limited view I really do not want an elk or deer to run out in front of me. I took this problem to a Kia dealer, they tried to adjust the lights , but it did not help much. If anyone else has this problem contact your dealer and maybe with your help Kia will look into this problem