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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  Cruised in comfort - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By Bucmell - October 22 - 3:50 am

  I Love it, every where I go people ask me about it ... even other car dealers! I live in the Philly area and drove to the Pittsburgh area 287 miles one way. The comfort, control, power when I needed it, and handling was unparalleled. Sort of like professional athletes talking about being in "the zone" where everything is happening at a high level of performance, yet it doesnt seem to affect you while handling all the obstacles that come your way on some hard (Pennsylvania) highway miles. And the factory premium CD sound system is more than satisfying with whatever type of music you enjoy listening to. Happy trails to you!

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  I love my Kia - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By Roxy - October 16 - 4:00 am

  My Kia is an 04 and currently has 92k miles on it. I have changed the oil regularly, just got new tires last year, needed to change the tail lights about once a year. Other than that-new brakes...havent had a problem until now. I have an oil leak and the mechanic has to take the engine apart to find the leak. Said it would be $300-$400. So, not bad for 92k miles. I love my Kia-have had fun driving it. I will keep it until it dies! The gas mileage isnt very good but it is paid off due to the 0% financing I got on it when purchased new. I was rear ended by a very large truck going 45 mph and I was at a complete stop with my baby in the back seat. This Kia took the hit from hell like a champ.

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  Just put 21,000 miles on my Kia Sorento - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By trawets20 - October 14 - 2:00 am

  Ive had my Sorento right about a year and have now put 21,ooo miles on it.It has had no problems at all and has been a real pleasure to drive.I too was skeptical of the Kia badge ,but did alot of research before I purchased.Its turned out to be a real good vehicle so far,and for the features you get its a great choice.

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  Quality - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By Jasons Kia - October 14 - 2:00 am

  I love my KIA. Gas milage is pretty poor, but I knew that going in. I hated Thomas Kia in Highland Indiana, the place is a scam, they go back on their word. But, they had the car I was looking for. Great, purchase.

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  I tested them all! - 2016 Kia Sorento
  By H. Danis - October 13 - 8:29 am

  I started searching over a year ago for the best 3 row SUV that was affordable, great looking, and gas worthy. I first liked the Rogue but quickly changed my mind on that. It has great gas mileage but the third row was ridiculous. The new Rogue has the second row raised as if you are sitting in a movie theatre. I hated that and it felt really strange being higher up than the front row. That was a deal breaker for me. The Murano is over priced and so is the Pathfinder. The Pathfinder was gorgeous but the base model doesnt have the basics like blue tooth and Sirius Radio. The next trim model that offered it was 6,000 more. The Pathfinder also received weak reviews for reliability. I drove the Mazda 9 and loved it but the extremely low gas mileage (combined) is only 16. Thats unacceptable for a car like that. One would think Mazda would make a car with better gas mileage. I also drove the Highlander and it has a lot of room, but I felt it over priced and not very attractive. I do remember driving a 2014 Kia Sorento and was not impressed back then. However, I read the Sorento was getting a face lift so I went and checked it out. What a surprise. It is gorgeous and the fit and finish is great. I read all reviews on all SUVs and took the time to finally select the 2016 Kia Sorento. I love it. It feels like a luxury car and it is very quiet. Kia has come a long way with their line of cars and SUVs. I have one in Black with a black interior. I am a picky shopper and I am glad I purchased the new design.

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  Awesome Value - 2007 Kia Sorento
  By DAVID - October 10 - 2:56 pm

  I was very skeptical of the Kia brand as I only bought Fords my whole life so far. But I have to say after only a few months of ownership the value was outstanding. The truck performs great and I only wish the gas mileage was a bit better. No issues with 3000 miles on it so far and I am so happy with it. Great performance and stopping. Awesome value!!

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  I love my Sorento!!!! - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By rogainey - October 9 - 10:00 am

  This car is my 5th new car and I love this car. It drives so smoothly and quitely. It looks great and I just love driving it.

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  Ill never buy another Kia! - 2006 Kia Sorento
  By syeats618 - October 5 - 3:11 pm

  I really love the look of my Sorento, however it has been a disappointment. The brake lights have gone out so many times Ive lost count, the headlights have burned out, interior lights have burned out, the windshield wiper fluid wont come out, the brakes have been replaced, the tires have been replaced and the jack is too small for the SUV. I had to use 3 different jacks from my neighbors just to clear the tire from the ground to change it. I have just over 61,000 miles on it so the warranty is now out and I have the windshield wiper issue and the light on my console is out. I dont know if its worth repairing but the sad thing is that I only have 1 more year before its paid off.

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  Wow what an SUV!!! - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By gourmetdad - October 4 - 10:00 am

  I love this car, it is so fun to drive and own. Its the only SUV that I have been in that sits right up there with full size pickups and didnt cost me an arm and a leg. You really need to reconsider if you are going to buy an SUV and not give the Sorento a look first. Major difference between the Sorento and the Santa Fe, I have driven the Lexus RX330 and there is no difference except the price and thats a big difference.

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  I bought a Kia - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By versteegta - October 4 - 10:00 am

  I was looking at buying a Saturn Vue before someone told me to check out a Kia Sorento. I decided that looking a Kia would be good for a laugh. I fell in love with it the moment I saw it. And when I opened the door and sat in the drivers seat - I was sold.