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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  Sweeeeeeet Vehicle - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By guppee - September 30 - 2:59 pm

  Purchased Sorento SX AWD in Ebony Blk to replace 06 Sportage EX AWD. Had no problems w/ Sportage, but wanted something a little roomier.So far,(1800 mi.),decision was GREAT! Getting 2 MPG better overall with Sorento than smaller Sportage and performance is far better. Some other reviews of EX and LX models complain of harsh/stiff ride, but the DFD shocks on SX must take care of that, as ride/handling is terrific. Very good value,as any comparable vehicles with same equipment/features run $6--8k more.

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  Sorento Rocks - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By James Bender - September 30 - 2:00 am

  We love our Sorento!!! Just bought it loaded out except for the Luxury package. It has the looks of the Lexus, great power, and so much more room than the lexus.

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  excelent - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By tony lucas - September 30 - 2:00 am

  I love this korean suv, because it is a really affordable luxury vehicle. Looks like a Lexus, but a half the price. extended warranty is very important

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  So far so good - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By Placeman - September 30 - 2:00 am

  Im very happy with my decision to buy the Sorento. The fit and finish is very Honda-ish, without the price. I did have a power lock relay break the day I picked it up. I believe it was blown before I picked it up though. Either way, my new Sorento spent its first night in the shop. Oh well. I just hope that this is not a premonition of what is to come.

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  Poor - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By Jeannie Benson - September 28 - 7:56 pm

  I am very unhappy with my 2004 Kia Sorento First the water overflow tank went bad, both sides of the front end had to be replaced, multiple sensors. the head lights and tails lights continually go out. We have had to get the air charge the last 3 years and now it doesnt work at all and I still owe 3 months worth. Cant wait to be done with this lemon!

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  Arizona dreaming - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By AZscout - September 27 - 2:26 pm

  Sports car that can go offroad, Arizona does run out of roads, The Sorento is great in the city but offroad even better. Runs great.

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  Love it! - 2016 Kia Sorento
  By Brandy Richmond - September 22 - 2:20 am

  Bought my 1st Kia over the weekend (2016 Sorento) and couldnt be happier. This car is beautiful inside and out and Im just amazed on how much you get for your money. Thanks again Trevor at Gay Family Kia for finding me the perfect car for me and the great service.

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  Sorento SX - 2016 Kia Sorento
  By Nick barrientos - September 21 - 4:44 am

  Great car the handling is very responsive when turning and its very good when you have the blind spot detector.

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  My Sorento - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By eshma - September 20 - 10:00 am

  From the first time I viewed this SUV in person, I fell in love with it. I owned a corolla (2000) for almost 3 years and was looking at midsize SUVs. My Sorento handles great on the snow and rain (comes with standard Michelan all terrain) I drove from nyc to orlando in April; filled up 4 times. I feel like i got a luxury suv for half the price. At first i was wary of the fact that kia made the car, but after talking to some kia owners in my neighborhood and online research I decided to take a chance on kia. Now I know I made the right choice. I get stopped at least twice a week by people inquiring about the car. I love it much more than my corolla.

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  Fantastic Find - 2016 Kia Sorento
  By John Uhden - September 18 - 9:44 pm

  The Kia Sorento EX 6/AWD is a fantastic auto. I had had my mind set on a GMC Terrain, but there is no comparison, not even close. Our Kia is so quiet yet so powerful. There are no more bumps in the road, and it handles almost as well as my Honda Accord did. It came with third row seating, heated leather seats, the back-up camera, lane warning, and power liftgate, all of which i strongly recommend, oh, and all those electronic thingies. With the flat folding rear seats the cargo space is huge, and they are easy to operate. It has a power passenger seat and even the second row reclines (separately left and right). Our ride from NJ to Maine was actually enjoyable, plus we got 25 mpg at 80 mph! We put $5000 down and are leasing at only $300/month for 36 months. With 5000 lb towing capacity it will be a breeze towing our boat up to Maine in July. We are thrilled with our decision. Gotta deal with Tom Brennan at Sansone Jrs. in Neptune, NJ.