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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  Great Little Truck - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By SMB - October 14 - 10:00 am

  I bought this truck because of Nebraska Winters, its 4WD is what i needed to get through. Ive NEVER had an issue with this truck. Only thing ive done is replace the battery and a blinker bulb! With reg oil changes ive had zero engine trouble. I bought it with 47,000 miles on it and am now at over 124,000 miles. It still runs like the day i bought it! I would recommend a Kia Sorento to anyone who is looking for a great 4WD. On highway travel i can get close to 27 MPG.

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  Awesome car - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By ilan - October 14 - 10:00 am

  Well, where can i start, i got this car before the summer, i just LOVE IT. i got the EX v6 AWD with navi, i did not get the chrome rims though, (got them separately so now i have 2 pairs, chrome = summer regular ones for winter. this car handles greatly, but compared to my other kia (sorento 2005 which was a pain in the a** after 3 years) but this car is more powerful but the engine roar is less loud which is what i liked in the other sorento. The gps is *good* could have a few improvements. i suggest this car to anyone as so far its been very reliable.

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  Not a bad pick - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By Delk - October 13 - 6:46 pm

  Definitely the nicest vehicle i have ever owned. Very comfortable, attractive design, and smooth ride. Only problem ive had was 3 days after i purchased it i was on my way to go skiing and just about every light you could think of started to show up on the dash board. Then every time i hit the break pedal the sorrent started to shake violently. When i stoped the vehicle i could not put it into park. I had to have road side assistance towe me back to the dealership. 3 days later the dealership called me and told me that there was a piece of plastic stuck in between the fuse and the connecter that powered the alternator. To me that was a sketchy explanation and a poor experience.

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  Everything as promised. - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By thefive - October 7 - 8:50 am

  Ive had mine for 9 months and no problems what so ever. Taken it on a couple of 1200 mile road trips. It is as it is promised to be. The exception is the gas milage. Even babying wasnt able to get what was advertised. Other than that a great vehicle.

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  2 Years and 28K Miles Later - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By Ited - October 3 - 8:40 am

  The warranty was a major selling point as was the exterior styling (my wife liked that the most). For me the safety was a major factor as my wife is petite and I want her safe. Weve had the rotors turned which I dont believe should be necessary and tail light bulbs replaced both at our cost as they werent under warranty. Weve had transmission hesitation, but no break down. Weve had the overhead console multi-meter replaced twice to try to get it to be accurate. My wife thinks it is quieter than our Saturn and likes it the best of all the cars we have had. Weve also had a few undetermined rattles. Dealerships in our area SoCal have disappeared but a new one opened. So far a good buy.

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  AWESOME RIDE - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By POOLBUNNY - September 30 - 10:00 am

  FORGET THE LEXUS, THIS IS SO MUCH BETTER AND JUST AS NICE FOR LESS THE PRICE.

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  ITS A KIA - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By Jadkisson - September 30 - 10:00 am

  A lot of people come up to me and ask me questions about this vehicle and I tell them that its a KIA and they look at it and are very surprised of what it has to offer. I have 5000 miles and have had problems already with the truck. It has turned off on me while driving, the ABS brake lights have come on 4 times and the engine light has come on. I know people that have the same car as me and they have had no problems. I really like this car but I think there are Lemons everywhere. When my friends drive it they are surprised at how well it drives and how smooth that it operates. It also looks very stylish on the outside as well as the inside.

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  Almost 40 K on the Sorento - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By herrhec - September 28 - 2:18 pm

  I have the car three years already, on some trips no problem the machine is reliable. Some minor issues: the transmission ( manual) was changed because of a small "click" sound. the mechanic got lazy and after complaining several times (since he said: " the sound is normal") they put a new transmission and when they finished the sound was still there. Took it to another place it was a minor issue ( 30$ for repairing).Just changed the rear pads. hope to keep the car a few years more.

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  KISS MY KIA - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By bayla - September 23 - 10:00 am

  its a bit too early to tell...but as of today i love my Sorento! ive looked at literally every car in its class and the kia was over all in every category...comfort, handling, style and price. The guys at Fairfield Kia worked really hard for me to get the lowest price with plenty of surprise extras. I chose the sand beige (gold) really, and I let my husband drive it to work and everyone came out to o-o-oo- h and a-a-h-h-h over it. They thought it was a Lexus or one of those other pricy suvs. Let them eat cake!

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  Solid ride - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By Canadian Sorento - September 22 - 1:43 am

  Our choice was between the Ford Escape and the Sorento. Ford only had a 2 year 60,000km warranty vs the Kia at 100,000km and 5 years. The Sorento had more space for about the same money. Also had more airbags and side crash bars than the Escape.