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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  Problem with the Onboard Navigation System - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By bandrews6264 - November 2 - 6:15 am

  Here is my story: I have leased a 2011 KIA Sorrento (February 2011) from Tempe KIA [violative content deleted] and have found a problem with the internal navigation system. I have come to find out that the system is only programmed for using freeways and not recognizing quicker routes. Case in point: I went Las Vegas about two weeks ago and entered my destination into the onboard nav system. The nav system tried to take me to Flagstaff to connect with I-40 (142 plus, unnecessary miles) instead of directing me to US93, a much faster route. On the way home the onboard nav system again tried to route me through Flagstaff instead of US93 through Wickenburg. KIA refuses to anything about this. Buyer beware

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  Nothing Compares - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By Lee_in_CA - November 1 - 2:00 am

  After researching all the alternatives in this class of vehicle, the Sorento leaves the rest far behind. It is stylish, comfortable, the interior is attractive with amenities one expects to find only in more expensive vehicles. I am adjusting to an SUV after years of loving the cargo space in a large minivan, but the Sorento’s quality for the price is helping me overcome that quickly.

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  Sorento Happy - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By Sorento Happy - October 31 - 7:33 pm

  Love this vehicle. Fun to drive!

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  2016 SXL with TechPackage. - 2016 Kia Sorento
  By samiv - October 28 - 11:49 pm

  CONTEXT: Husband/Wife in the market for 1 year | Previously owned 2 gens of Durangos | | Were mid 40s | 1 dog | value: comfort, safety, reliability, styling | Our other car is a 12 Merc E350. COMPARED: (over 1 year): Buick (heavy, boat-y drive), Highlander (perfect features, HORRIBLE boaty drive), VW Tourag (great drive, way over priced), Jeep GC (decent drive, great features, overpriced), Infinity Q (this was our 2nd choice; it lost out based on drive quality)....and 5 others. EXPERIENCE: Weve had it only 3 weeks: Taken onto beach (sand, up steep hills; no traction loss), local mountain roads (handled great!), to work; -44 mile commute (PRISTINE comfort!!), DateNight (Luxury!)

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  needs outside temp. gauge.. - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By blomquist - October 27 - 10:00 am

  I really love my KIA sorento.. I only have a few complaints. On a suv this loaded, I cant believe that there is no outside temp. gauge. I also think the key needs to come into the new millenium. Make the key and remote one piece. Such as the audi/VW. I am a former vw owner and i loved that key combo.. Overall I really love my sorento..Time will tell..:)

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  GO KIA! - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By bsballmomnky - October 24 - 5:10 pm

  I love my KIA! I was not very familiar with the maker of this vehicle and out of the blue drove onto the car to OOK and I walked away buying! I was looking for a reliable vehicle and was told about this stylish vehicle and all of its amenities. I have two sons and we are constantly on the go. I have no complaints or issues except for gas prices. and a wimpy horn. Gas mileage has been comparable to the 4 cylinder I traded in. I have more power and have lost only 20 miles to the tank (tanks being same size as previous car). Standard items such as the aluminum wheels and Michelin tires. I would highly recommend this vehicle!

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  Great SUV but not Great Gas Mileage - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By DM - October 24 - 3:40 pm

  I love my Sorento . I wanted something compact but roomy inside and still an SUV type vehicle. I drive 50 miles roundtrip everyday and the gas mileage is not so good. If you dont do a lot of driving then its a great vehicle.

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  A KIA? I like it! - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By jjsteil - October 21 - 10:00 am

  Was sold on this vehicle based on what I read from owner reviews here on Edmunds. Solid vehicle. Excellent workmanship similar to what you see in an Acura or Toyota product. You get a lot more vehicle for your money that what you would get buying from Ford, GM or other imports. Have logged over 20,000 miles no problems. Did not know till I purchased vehicle the transmission is manufactured in Japan, we all know what level of quality comes from that country. Smoothest ride of any SUV or pick up I test drove. Contrary to what the Toyota salesman told me, I think this vehicle will have a good resale value.

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  Fuel - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By nevik - October 17 - 11:23 pm

  The only thing I am disappointed in is the fuel economy. It doesnt even get close to what the sticker says. I can see a couple miles less but when you get 8 to 10 miles off, thats a big difference. I based my decision to purchase this SUV because of the fuel economy it was supposed to have.

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  FUN SUV - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By Gslimboy - October 16 - 10:00 am

  I have had this SUV for 2.5 months and have loved every minute of it. I have taken it for a trip into Central Oregon and up into Washington and ofcourse in Beautiful BC. It handled beautifully. On and off the road it was great. The gas mileage is a little rough, but apart from that I love it. Only other negative is the towing capacity. I would have preferred it to be 5000 lbs as opposed to the current rated 3500lbs.