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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  Turning sour on a lemon - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By cm in boston - September 18 - 11:13 am

  We loved this SUV at first; great in the snow, nice interior and good price for features. However, now in its third year, it is falling apart. The transmission plug fell out, requiring a new transmission. Kia paid however we had to pay for the rental. Then one of the belt pulleys broke off requiring a new "lower engine block" This second repair took two weeks. Kia covered rental for this repair, but nothing for the inconvenience. Still like the vehicle, but I probably made a mistake buying it the first year out.

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  Solid Vehicle - 2007 Kia Sorento
  By tomease - September 16 - 11:26 am

  The engine with select shift is fantastic. The heated leather seats are great quality. The ride is solid, and having low range is key. It is fast, the 5 speed auto is smooth, the torque will let you out accelerate most. This is the perfect sleeper vehicle. Quality issues of Kia are a thing of the past, although I think consumers will be ahead of the press on the issue for a while. Sorento did top JD Power and Strategic Vision 2007 awards, so maybe this is being noticed. If you compare this vehicle like I did, when test driving forget about the badges and this is very hard to beat.

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  MPG - 2013 Kia Sorento
  By bunnyskier - September 15 - 5:18 pm

  Love my Sorento. It is one of the best looking SUVs out there. I have gotten 27 MPG on the Hwy. I took a trip camping with 4 girls and all our gear and got 24 MPG. This is partial hwy and partial mountain driving with plenty of steep grades. I use the ECO option to keep my foot and pedal in check.

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  Good luck to the competition - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By Blackremmy - September 8 - 10:00 am

  I am 53 years old, I have had at least 20 vehicles. Including, a limited edition Cadillac Boritz. This vehicle has been given great thought in its design. They have numerous places for items, including a large drawer under the passenger seat for maps, etc. There are several outlets inside the vehicle. The door handles light up for easy key access at night. This in itself is a key item for safety in this day and age. The ignition also lights up. I could continue with some more major items, but simply this is the best vehicle I have ever owned.

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  My Sorento! I Love it! - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By danoarx - September 8 - 10:00 am

  I checking the SUVs that are affordable for me and also are comparable to expensive SUVs, since one year. Came across KIA Sorento. As it was KIA so I wasnt sure whether it is I should buy it or not. Started to read its reviews, and found that everyone is saying it is a great SUV. Finally I decided and got one last month. I really like this SUV.

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  My smaller SUV - 2007 Kia Sorento
  By Ruby - September 6 - 8:16 pm

  I bought my Kia by trading in my Nissan Armada. I was commuting on weekends from my home in Dallas to my parents in Jacksonville, Tx. I went from $65 in gas to $40 and also about 4 more days before I had to fill up. My son has plenty of room in the backseat in his carseat with his books, crayons, and DVDs. The Armada was so high, I always had to open the door for him. Now, he gets on in. I do contract work for a florist and the easels fit nicely. I make arrangements in my home and I have plenty of room to put everything. The engine is very quiet, it handles great in the rain. I love my Sorento!

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  Fun to drive - 2012 Kia Sorento
  By dagreene57 - September 6 - 7:29 am

  Have an EX with the V6. Fun to drive, but definitely have the throttle lag mentioned in other posts. Weirdest thing was a week or two ago started to get apulsation/vibration under acceleration. Took it to the dealer and they found a snap-ring on the left-front had slipped and was allowing the front axle-shaft to move around. They put on a new one and found that the correct part was undersized. They found a correctly sized part and no more problems. The service manager said this was the 3rd one he had seen. This was at about 15K miles. Other than that, a blast to drive, handles great, good power.

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  2011 Kia Sorento is Awesome! - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By HappyOwner - September 4 - 6:06 pm

  Weve owned the Sorento for about a month now and we love it! We got the premium and limited package so it has all of the bells and whistles. I cant beleive how much car we got for our money. They are selling these vehicles way to cheap. In the end nothing could even compare to the value and styling both interior and exterior or the Sorento. I would highly recommend this vehicle to anyone in the market for a new small size SUV.

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  Awesome Sorento! - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By kiareview - September 3 - 10:30 pm

  So happy with my new Sorento! Traded in my 2006 Sorento for this major improvement. 4 cylinder AWD has more than enough power to get up Seattle hills. Cant wait to go test it out in the snow. Love the standard features of bluetooth, steering wheel controls, and ipod dock. You MUST get the convenience package! An extra $500 bucks or so gets you fog lights, roof rack, back up sensors, and a back up camera in the rear view mirror. After all of the rebates, loyalty discount, and dealer cash, I was able to get out the door for just over $20,000. Bought on last day of the month too.

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  Kia Newbee - Sorento 2011 Thoughts - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By e_today - September 3 - 8:33 pm

  This is our first Kia. We have been a Ford and Dodge only family. Since the Sorento is USA made I felt better about the branding issue. This new Sorento 2011 is really different and superior than the 2009, which we compared side by side. Kia skipped 2010 production. This car is a crossover and compares to the Ford Flex and Rav4. The big difference is price, about 30% more bang with Kia. Read the Edmunds review about the Kia 2011 Sorento, it is similar to my opinion. Smaller engine power was not enough to keep me from buying, and hope to get 24 Average mpg. We bought the LX with convienience package. Be sure to check KIA web site for special offers, they have many special offers.