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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  Good Buy Overall - 2007 Kia Sorento
  By James - July 3 - 10:53 pm

  I bought this vehicle as a family vehicle for my daughter and I. It has met all of our needs. Interior is comfortable. Exterior is an attractive, sleek design. Turning radius is not the greatest. Factory headlights are not as bright as the headlights in my Ranger were. The back glass rattles. I agree with the post indicating that the water from teh wiper blades blows right inside when the window is down. Never had that happen before in any other vehicle. Lower gas mileage than I was told at teh dealership. But those are teh only negatives. Everything else about the vehicle is a positive. Most reliable vehicle I have ever had.

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  I love my Sorento! - 2006 Kia Sorento
  By Stacey - July 3 - 9:40 pm

  I dont know what the "Professionals" are talking about when they review this vehicle. Before I bought mine, I read all of the magazines out there that talked about how, "Unstable, awkward and hard to control," the Kia Sorento was. But obviously, these "Professionals" never owned one. I LOVE MY SORENTO! It is perfect. It is easy and fun to drive; handles great, easy for people of ALL sizes to get in and out of...plus, it really does not do too bad on gas mileage. (I am getting about 17-18 mpg around town). All I can say is if you are thinking about purchasing a midsize SUV, drive one of these Sorentos, first. Then base your opinion on your own experience, not what the "magazines" say.

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  This Is An SUV Worth Your Money - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By zippadeedudah - July 3 - 2:13 pm

  Acceleration and performance are good. Handling is excellent. Price is excellent for the quality received. One can tell that a great deal of craftsmanship has gone into the assembly of this vehicle.

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  transmission went kapoof at 25k miles - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By fishstick - June 29 - 2:15 pm

  Car: 2011 base model, 4cyl. Transmission went kapoof at 25k miles. I rolled it into a stop sign then suddenly, loud grinding sound and the car wont move anymore. The engine still runs but car wont move. Towed it to the dealer and they replaced the transmission (for free) under warranty. It took them 4 days to fix. No loaner/rental car was provided..."it is not in KIAs policy" The car was never driven hard. I hope a recall would be issued regarding the transmission problem that people are having. When that warranty runs out....watch out $$$ One of the tire pressure sensor keeps leaking air. The seal on the valve is crap. Fix: replaced it with a traditional non-tps valve.

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  Love My Sorento - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By ssteely - June 26 - 10:00 am

  After owning a 2001 Ford Explorer, I never imagined that I would own a Kia, but after my first test drive, all that changed. To say the least, comparing the Kia to the Ford is like comparing apples to oranges. My Ford had a tendacy to jar ones "innards" at every bump in the road, whereas, the Kia takes them like a trooper! I could go on and on comparing the two, but I wont. I do know I have no regrets and look forward to the years ahead w/ my Sorento!

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  Excellent SUV for the money! - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By ajh - June 26 - 10:00 am

  I was hesitant to buy a SUV with a KIA nameplate on it at first, but after test driving the competition and seeing their MSRPs, there was no competition for the features and price plus the 10/100k powertrain warranty. After driving it for a couple of weeks I know I made the right choice. Do yourself a favor and buy one before the word gets out and hence the price increases!.

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  A very good substitute - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By clgcindy - June 20 - 10:00 am

  Looks like a Lexus RX300...priced like a Hyundai. Great price, great looks, not great gas mileage. Back seat ride is bumpy. Storage space limited. Knowing all this, would probably buy it again because of the price.

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  My first Sorento. I love it!!! - 2014 Kia Sorento
  By billyboy10 - June 19 - 5:23 am

  This is my first ever SUV or CUV ( whatever you call it ). I have been a loyal Kia owner for the past 10 years but this is my first time not buying a compact car. I am very impressed with my 2014 Sorento. It has all the extras that you can get on the LX model. Myself and my kids love the heated front seats, especially with the cold winter we have had this year. The UVO is a big upgrade from what I had in my 2010 Forte and the rear camera is useful as well. With my kids getting older I just wanted to get something that was bigger with more room and safer on the road. This is it!

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  Sorento - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By K. Herland - June 18 - 9:23 pm

  Nice to drive, well built, great service plan. Great buy. Very nice looking vehicle.

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  It may of saved our lives! - 2008 Kia Sorento
  By Mgoble - June 15 - 10:13 am

  On April 14, 2008 we were hit by van, and our Kia was totaled. Although all the damage was to our car, we walked away with a few minor bumps and bruises! It sayed upright and did not flip/roll. It was a wonderful car and we would buy one again.