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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  "Killed In Action!" - 2006 Kia Sorento
  By K8 - June 11 - 11:33 am

  I hate to think i spent all that money on a car i worry about more than my physical health after a roll over that almost took my life at age 27. Kia on the west side of Olympia have been more of a problem then the car. Check engine light (they cleared without fixing), wheel bearing x2 in the shop yesterday & its my fault at 60k, pulls, shakes, squeaks, break light countless times has been replaced, how it rides scares me to death. I worry about a new problem more then the price of gas. I promise I will tell 1,000 if not more people that this car is the "biggest waste of time & money ever spent." I hate this car! My lifted 04 Rubicon is safer, even after it rolled x5 at 70 mph!

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  2011 sorento - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By Ronald Perez - June 9 - 2:04 pm

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  We love our 2014 Kia Sorento LX - 2014 Kia Sorento
  By roadturtle59 - June 9 - 6:31 am

  We have bought new one Tuscon in the 90s, and four Hyundai Santa Fes, 2008, 2009, 2011, and a 2012. This is our first Kia Sorento. the Pros; Strong motor, easier steering, a lot better suspension, better handling, better gas mileage 24.9 average, smooth automatic 6 speed transmission, easy to get in and out off, great visibility, awesome warranty. In all the years I have owned Hyundais, and now Kia. I only had one minor repair under warranty years ago. Cons; none so far. We have 1350 miles on our new Sorento so far. I strongly recommend Kia Sorento.

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  kia sorento - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By green mg - June 9 - 2:00 am

  the car has good fit and finish and is comfortable on long trips there are blind spots on the right and the left sides of the car. the performance is good and the car is able to run smooth and stable at 85 + mph my only regreat is that the stick was not avalable at the time we bought it

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  1st Kia - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By Marty M - June 9 - 2:00 am

  EVERYTHING WE EXPECTED AFTER TEST DRIVING IT....EXCELLANT BUY FOR THE MONEY.....love it

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  Just getting started - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By toddr - June 9 - 2:00 am

  We jsut got this rig and it seems to be solid for the price. We really looked around and in the beginning mileage was a major factor but as we atarted to look for the price and wiht the warranty we get with this vehicle we decided to give up a couple of miles per gallon and give it a try. I read all of the reviews about the road noise and I think Kia must have also because the 2004 seems to be solid in that area. I think it is a great buy for te money and would recommend it to anyone. Another side note is I have already had people from a distance think that I was driving a Lexus SUV!

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  Great value for the money - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By Kevin - June 7 - 8:10 am

  I purchased the EX 4WD new in March 06 and have gone 7,000 miles with absolutely no problems of any kind. Ride is firm but stable. Transmission is very smooth, fit and finish inside & out is excellent. Roomier than it looks.

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  Great purchase - 2007 Kia Sorento
  By Jose - June 7 - 12:23 am

  I bought my Sorento 2 months ago after long research about the vehicle. I gave it a try because the looks of the car and the engine. When I went to the dealer and tested it, I got impressed and bought two of them, the other for my wife. What I like the most is that it has a smooth ride and the engine is very powerful for the Texas highways. It handles well on bumpy roads. My wife almost crashed hers, but the car handled very well and nothing happened. The drawback of the car is the sound system. The front speakers have an average power but the rear ones are very weak. The car has plenty of storage spaces, cup holders and lighting consoles which are nice features.

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  Kia is great - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By burlyii - May 28 - 10:00 am

  Grea valuse. Very well dedigned. No problems despite a lot of driving.

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  New to Kia....Left Toyota far behind! - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By Captnjak1 - May 27 - 9:46 pm

  I have been a long time Toyota purchaser, but decided to jump over to Kia and its warranty. What a pleasant surprise! I was immediately impressed by the power and styling of this vehicle. Lots of gadgets and bang for your buck. Handling is great and it;s real easy to park with the backup camera. My initial impressions exceeded any Toyota I have purchased in the past(including the 4Runner). There was a little "break-in" period.It seemed like there was a little "bouncing/vibrating" coming from the tires.It may have been just me looking for something, but it was completely gone within the first 50 mile of its life. I rated the reliabilty as an 8,since its brand new and only time will tell.