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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  2012 Kia Sorento - 2012 Kia Sorento
  By sdrayton - August 11 - 1:51 pm

  This is my 2nd Sorento. My first one (2011) made a grinding noise when breaking. After confirming it was not the ABS brakes and multiple attempts by the dealership and Kia to repair the car Kia agreed to replace it (with a reasonable charge for the mileage). The 2012 Sorento I purchased as a replacement started making the same noise after approximately 2 weeks. Kia has now says it is a common characteristic of Sorentos but it will not affect the safety or value of my car. Want to buy a 2012 Sorento with less than 10,000 miles that intermittently makes a grinding noise when you stop?

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  Good SUV - 2012 Kia Sorento
  By jrgleason2003 - August 11 - 9:19 am

  I purchased the LX with the GDI Engine. So far I am impressed with the way it drives. I had a 2010 ford escape that was plagued with problems. Leith Kia in wendell, NC really worked with me to get me into a 2012 sorento. It really drives smooth, Im not sure why they say its a firm ride...has anyone rode in a civic? Thats a firm ride. I got the LX w/convenience pkg for a little over 23K. My only complaint is that at low speeds (idle or under 5mph), the GDI engine seems a little "rough". However it does accelerate VERY smoothly (smoothest tranny Ive felt) and gets up to speed adequately. The GDI engine wont blow your hair back or anything, but there is a little extra pep to get into traffic

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  YOU GOTTA DRIVE IT - 2007 Kia Sorento
  By ski - August 8 - 8:43 pm

  You have to drive this vehicle. Powerful, fun, and looks great. The transmission is awesome, its manual and automatic so you can pick your gear. Plenty of room for moving what I need, but not a land yacht with a lot of wasted space.

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  German Build & Asian Reliablity - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By Ray Taylor - August 8 - 2:00 am

  Absolutely wonderful SUV. German build quality. Asian reliability. 16,000 miles and no problems. Tight as a bank vault. Best build quality of any car Ive ever owned. Ive owned 3 Mercedes and 2 Beemers.

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  Overall - Good - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By able - August 8 - 2:00 am

  Plus - finish and fit, quality of materials used and engineering design elements (drain plugs in transmission pan and differential unlike american vehicles) Minus - unlit cruise controls, no radio volume on the steering wheel (whats up with that???) and last but not least abismal gas mileage!!!

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  Big mistake - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By dswanson1 - August 4 - 1:40 pm

  This was the worst vehicle choice ever!! We had it for 3 months and the radiator blew. Then all the window switches stopped working and the AC would not hold its charge. The transmission started going out when we hit 110,000 miles and when we traded it in, we only got $1500 for it. Thought that would be the last time I got a KIA that was build prior to 2005, but my wife tricked me and bought a 2003 Kia Spectra. We have had nothing but issues with that one also.

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  Will never buy a Kia again - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By Tonya - August 3 - 7:43 am

  I loved this car until the windshield washer pump went out three times. I have a headlight go out about once a month. After changing the timing belt at 60,000 miles the engine locked up and the dealer told me it needed a whole new motor which would not be covered by warranty. I took it somewhere else and had it fixed for $600, no new motor needed after all! A CD is stuck in the CD player. The paint has chipped all over. The gas gauge is broken so I have to remember to reset the trip meter every time I fill up. The back passenger door latch keeps falling off. Poor MPG. Every time I have taken the car in, my complaints are not covered by the "bumper to bumper, 100,000 mile warranty."

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  Kia Sorento - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By Sorento Owner - August 2 - 2:00 am

  I was in the market for an SUV. After looking for a while at the more expensive brands with what I thought was a better name at the time I kept finding myself drawn back to the Kia Sorento and the Hundai Santa Fe. You can not beat the prices and the warranties that come with the vehicles. The finance manager at Atlantic Auto Mall almost cost himself a sale because he was completely nasty and arrogant when we said no to the extended waranty. Edmunds.com was a huge help in our purchase. I made four thousand more on my trade in after researching with edmunds after my first shopping trip for this vehicle at the same dealer.

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  Yuck - 2008 Kia Sorento
  By Kitch - July 29 - 9:43 am

  Really DO NOT Like it. Have returned it to the dealer for brakeing issues. Manual seat does not go up as high as the power seats, engine (3.3) is slow to respond. Have to remove the rear seat headrests in order to put the back seat down, with all of the rear seat headrests & seat belts crossing in my view in the rearview mirror you do not get a clear view out the back, nice storage under the rear floor, but you have to remove EVERYTHING from the back of the vehicle to access it. The cover for the rear area cuts down on the amount of stuff you can put in there unless you remove it & you have to remove it to put the rear seats down. REALLY WISH I had returned it & gotten my old vehicle back.

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  Uses a lot of gas - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By stephen - July 27 - 11:53 am

  Uses a lot of gas Says its supposed to get 14 miles local and 22 highway on ticket, however that is not true; its a lot LOWER.