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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  Cant believe what you get for you buck! - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By April - January 25 - 2:00 am

  The first word that comes to mind is class. How in the world do they put all of that class in this SUV and still make it affordable? The ride is smooth and quiet. Theres so much room in the back seat - adults are as comfortable as kids! I think its wonderful that an automobile company realizes that even us middle class people like to ride in style.

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  I love it...except - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By cc - January 22 - 7:26 pm

  I really have enjoyed owning this car. Have had needed no service except routine. Just replaced the tires at 60,000. The only thing that could be improved is the recoil of the driver side shoulder seat belt, often doesnt return to original position and gets caught in the door. Otherwise ... love it.

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  One of the best - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By CT yank - January 21 - 10:00 am

  Only had the 2004 Sorento for 3 weeks, but so far it has lived up to my expectations. Use it off road plus considerable highway driving. Looks, comfort and functionality cant be beat. Go for the luxury package if possible, youll love driving it!

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  A value if it proves reliable - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By JimScot - January 20 - 11:43 am

  Too new to rate reliability. However we looked at all four wheel and all wheel drive cars and the Kia was by far the best value. We also liked that it was made in the USA. A better overall value than the Subaru Forester. Initial mileage of 21 slightly disappointing as we were getting that from the V-6 in the Buick and this is only a four. Here in Maine, the AWD is essential during the winter months. Time will tell how the Kia will hold up.

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  "POWER TO SURPRISE" IS RIGHT - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By beastly_sorento - January 19 - 8:30 pm

  I love my Sorento! I bought it with 73,000 miles on it, for around ten thousand including a standard lifetime powertrain warranty(really sealed the deal). After 5 months and 8,000 miles, I would of bought it without the warranty. The engine is extremely reliable and the 4 wheel drive is awesome. The gas mileage is O.K., but what can I expect from a V6 4x4. Because this is a true 4x4, the ride can be a little rough, but the cushy seats help a lot. Overall, this is a reliable and fun to drive vehicle that has all the goodies at a rock bottom price. Buying a Sorento was a smart move for me and it will be too for you.

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  Great family SUV for a great price! - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By jenguinn - January 18 - 12:32 am

  We bought our Sorento new in 2011 and have been driving it for 3 1/2 years now. We have been very happy with our purchase! We bought the Sorento instead of a Toyota Highlander due to the significant difference in price. The SX has all of the bells and whistles we wanted and we have not had any major problems with it in the 3 1/2 years that we have been driving it. Our vehicle has almost 40K miles on it now and we have driven it mostly in town and short highway trips of 2-4 hours. I still love the exterior design (even more than the newer Sorentos). And our local Kia dealership has been great for service. I would highly recommend this car.

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  Stop Bashing the MPG Numbers! - 2013 Kia Sorento
  By kenjill - January 16 - 7:15 am

  People, please stop bashing the MPG numbers with this vehicle. Our Sorento vehicle gets the MPG figures, as advertised. I bet there is a direct corrolation between those who get "poor" MPG and bad driving habits ("jack-rabbit" acceleration, braking too hard, using AC or heat too much, and yes, texting while driving, etc). I also own a Kia Optima SX Turbo and I average 30-32 MPG per tank...let me repeat that - over 30 MPG with a Turbo! If you improve your driving habits, then your "real world" MPG numbers will go up considerably. Otherwise, the vehicle is fine so far...a great value for the money.

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  Love It - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By wilusmil4me - January 9 - 10:00 am

  awesome ride and an awesome price.

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  BEWARE!!! This is a tempting trap! - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By jenn223 - January 9 - 10:00 am

  We have had nothing but PROBLEMS with our Kia Sorento! We bought brand new. At 3000 miles the trans. froze on an offramp, we had it towed but they "could not duplicate the problem and did nothing". At 12000 miles, the transmission went out on me. The dealership did not want to pay for rental while they fixed, I contacted BBB and they did. They replaced transmission. They also fixed the back armrest that broke after a WEEK of owning. I spoke with a car insurance agent she said she had a Sorento too and the first week she had it her fuel pump went out, then her suspension! She got a lawyer because they didnt want to fix it, now her trans. is going out too. My suggestion, pass this by!

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  kia sorento - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By buddy450 - January 9 - 10:00 am

  looked very hard at the lexus rx330, also a very nice vehicle, but the KIA is almost identical, about half the price, and the 100,000 mile warranty is hard to beat!