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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Fun to drive - 2003 Kia Sorento
By August - August 3 - 10:00 amI love the Kia Sorento.
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Buy if you dont care about gas mileage - 2012 Kia Sorento
By natlikescars - July 29 - 1:56 amWe bought our Sorento the end of July 2011. The first 800 miles we got 32 to 34 highway mpg. After that it dropped to 28 and below. The dealer has checked it twice and they say nothing is wrong and Kia has said that is normal. Really?? We really like the vehicle except for the gas mpg. If the EPA sticker had said highway mileage was 27 mpg it would have been great. I challenge anyone to to get 32 mpg highway with any normal gasoline. Was the computer made to give you great mpg for the first few hundred miles, but if that continued the engine would burn up? So after about 800 miles it gives it a richer mixture? I am planning on contacting the EPA and have them reexamine the Sorento mpg.
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should cost more than it does - 2003 Kia Sorento
By k west - July 27 - 10:00 amI love this car! It has all the bells and whistles of the high end SUVs without the pricetag. As others have stated gas mileage could be better, but its not bad for a 6 cyl. all wheel drive SUV. I have the luxury package and believe you me it feels like a million bucks!
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i like my kia - 2003 Kia Sorento
By Brenda - July 27 - 10:00 ami am very pleased with my car ..........
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3 years later - 2007 Kia Sorento
By Tennisfan - July 25 - 10:00 am3 years later and im still happy. The kia runs like day one, still perfect! Ive written two other reviews already, so this one is just a follow up to those. I recommend kia to everyone I know, they really make great SUVs.
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Second Sorento 90k miles Strong - 2005 Kia Sorento
By Brian - July 25 - 10:00 amGreat reliable vehicle. Its my second Sorento and third kia so far. I drive many miles to work so I first bought a Kia because of the low price, now I buy because of the quality. So far Ive had no mechanical failures, but my shocks and struts are getting weaker. Of the two Sorentos Ive owned, the first one did have the issue with head lights going before their time. This one has been OK so far though in regards to that problem. My first Sorento was bought used as well and was a 2004 EX v6 model. It was also very reliable but got totaled in an accident so I had to buy my 05 to replace it. By the way the car held up well in the crash and was still drivable afterward.
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The SX is awesome - 2011 Kia Sorento
By Guy in TX - July 25 - 10:00 amKia did it right again! I had an 05EX and loved it. The SX has everything my EX was missing. I have the SX FWD with everything except AWD and sunroof. I plan on enjoying at least 5-7 years with my SX before I trade it in for the next generation Sorento again! GO KIA! Keep up the good work!
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Jos Truck - 2003 Kia Sorento
By Jdrogue - July 21 - 2:00 amI would buy this SUV again in a heart beat. I purposly bought the factor model, no extras and have been satisfied completely.
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The Best Yet! - 2004 Kia Sorento
By EFP - July 21 - 2:00 amPreviously owned a 2003 Sedona EX for several months. Traded for the Sorento because our dog didnt like not having back seat windows that didnt open!! We liked the performance of the Sedona so much that we knew we wanted to stay with a KIA. Im so happy and pleased that we did!
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Truly a best buy! - 2004 Kia Sorento
By starrn1 - July 21 - 2:00 amThe Kia Sorento gives you a lot of bang for your buck. Most of my riders are surprised by the size of the interior, the standard features, cargo room, and how it rides. After they get over their awe the ask about the gas mileage. There in lies the rub! While it doesnt get good gas mileage, it is pretty standard for an SUV with 4 wheel drive. Ive enjoyed driving my Sorento this past year. It has been reliable, safe, and fun to drive!
