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 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

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  Thats a KIA! - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By RonB - November 13 - 9:53 am

  I have had my Sorento now for a little over a month. I am still being surprised daily at how nice this vehicle is. I am getting an avg of 21 mpg, mostly city driving. The power is comical in the fact that there is so much of it. A couple of nit pick items have popped up. Annoying buzz/rattle from dash on certain road surfaces. Slight vibration felt when slow left turns are used, I suspect tire noise. Other than theses extremely minor issues all is great with the Sorento. I actually have people ask if it is a new Acura MDX!

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  2011 Kia Sorento - Base Model - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By newvwdriver - November 9 - 10:13 pm

  I bought my 2011 Kia Sorento (base model with manual transmission) in February, 2011. So far I love it. However, there is one glitch that maybe other Kia owners have noticed. It is with Kias automatic locking system. Never ever leave your keys in the ignition for any period of time when leaving! Kia automatically locks you out after a short period of time. It has happened to me twice so far. I asked the Kia owner about this and he said it has happened to him twice, so beware..... I have been locked out twice.

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  Great Purchase! - 2017 Kia Sorento
  By Roger I. Cabrera - November 9 - 7:51 am

  This is a beautiful SUV standing or going down the road, great features, interior and exterior finish is a class above. Quiet and smooth. 3.3l V6 has some true bite to it when called upon. This is an excellent vehicle for the price! Already looking ahead to 2018 for a new one..

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  Still going strong....103,000. - 2007 Kia Sorento
  By adventrous - November 3 - 11:34 pm

  I purchase my KIA Sorento brand new in 2007. I am very happy with my vehicle which has gotton me through rough times on the highway and on deserted roads. I have driven this vehicle through ice, snow, mud, rough dirt roads, and sand. I never worry about my safety because several times I almost roll-over but came back down on all fours (not that I was trying to). My family and I do a lot of traveling, camping, hiking, beaches, etc so roads are not always pave to where we are heading. Besides we live out in nowhere and roads are not paved but KIA always got us home safely. (nearest town would be 40 miles)

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  4x4 ex Kia Sorento - 2008 Kia Sorento
  By bwinquist - November 1 - 9:40 am

  Purchased this Sorento ex 4x4..to it for a 400 mile test drive and found it to handle well on highway-no unreasonable vibrations, handles well, good turning radius, good acceleration. The seating however, is quite hard. Perhap this can be an improvement for future. Good legroom for driver and passenger, the steering wheel could perhaps elevate higher. The wheel base should be longer to allow for greater back cargo storage. The seats do not fold down well wihout adjusting the headrests.

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  Never Again! - 2006 Kia Sorento
  By lori - October 31 - 8:43 pm

  We have had nothing but trouble since we bought this thing. Weve had to have new rotors put on after the first 15,000 miles.The interior lights stopped working. Have had to change countless bulbs in the head lights and tail lights. The transmission has gone out and dumped $1600. in having it worked on and still on working properly. The front seat design is horrible for long trips - across the country. The only good thing about this junk is that it is paid for. Ill never buy another KIA!

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  Great SUV - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By Kia lover - October 30 - 7:23 am

  This is my third Kia. I really like the quality and affordability of these autos. My Sorento was all I hoped for and more! Great ride, comfortable interior is worth the so-so gas mileage.

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  Awesome Vehicle - 2016 Kia Sorento
  By CD - October 30 - 2:16 am

  I purchased this car because of the value and the bells and whistles the car has to offer. Everywhere I go: work, pleasure, people stop and admire my vehicle. I live in the Tahoe (California) area, where we had an epic snow season last winter. The vehicle was just gliding thru the snow covered roads, no sliding, no worries. I do highly recommend the vehicle.

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  Another KIA with poor MPG... - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By padriver1979 - October 23 - 9:17 pm

  My wife and I purchased a Spicy Red 2011 Kia Sorento LX AWD in March 2010. The vehicle has 16,000 miles on it and we have yet to see over 20 mpg on a full tank of gas 50 city/50% highway. The original sticker said 21-28. The EPA changed the ratings for the 2012 and 2013 Sorentos I believe but not the 2011 models. Why? I contacted my local dealership and they said that the AWD 4 cyl should not even be sold in two cities--SF and Pgh due to the amount of hills. I would hate to see what the V6 gets if a 4 cyl is getting 20 in mixed driving conditions. In 2012 we leased a 2013 Optima LX thinking that perhaps Kias MPG on sedans would be better. False--19/20mpg. Buyer beware of Kia!