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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  Back Again - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By bobby83 - June 11 - 3:22 am

  I wrote one of the first reviews on this car in Jan 2010. At that time, it was great. Since that time, I wish I never made the purchase. One fine day, all of the oil leaked out due to a bad seal. After 3 attempts to repair, finally got fixed. Now, about every five to six days Im blessed with check engine light for a misalligned cam shaft or crank shaft. How nice. And the rattles that have developed - about six as best I can count. The seats rattle, the rear hatch rattles. the dasboard rattles. And the ride is noisy when driving on anything other than smooth roads. Pulls to right, had fixed twice, to no avail. Bloothooth - no good. Gas milage is bad. Never again. Goodbye.

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  My KIA - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By stallion326 - June 10 - 10:00 am

  I have a blast in my kia. It is by far the best bang for my buck yet. Besides the check engine light coming on for just about any reason, I do not have enough good things to say. It is still as quiet and sturdy today as the day I bought it. GREAT SUV!!!

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  Dead Dead Battery! - 2014 Kia Sorento
  By Lee - June 9 - 8:48 am

  I have a 2014 Kia Sorento SXL with 13,000 miles now. After having this car for 2 weeks go to start it and dead battery. Now 18 months later this problem has happened 7 times! Kia road service has to come out and jump it. Has been towed to dealership to check it out, told everything is fine. Im just not driving it enough to keep it charged. Went on vacation for six days and left car at airport and came back to a dead battery. When I say dead I mean DEAD. No lights etc...at all. After 7 times and getting no where with Kia service dept. I dont know what to do other then trade it in on another make! Any help or ideas why this is happening would help.

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  my Kia - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By paul buckshi - June 8 - 5:03 pm

  I was going to purchase either a Ford Escape or a Chevy Blazer. I test drove both, liked the Escape. There is a Kia dealer across the road, went there for a laugh. After driving and pricing the Kia I quit laughing. The Kia handled better, looked better and had a 60,000 mile warranty. Kia was over $2000 less and has more options. 16 months & 21,000 miles later, not one problem. Great suv, will purchase another.

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  Great vehicle for almost 5 years - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By SoCal - June 4 - 10:40 am

  We bought our Sorento new in May of 2003. In 56K miles, weve never had a problem. Only routine maint. and a brake job, along with one set of tires.

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  I love my Kia - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By Omar - May 31 - 6:53 am

  All I gotta say to anybody that is thinking of buying a kia sorrento is GO FOR IT!.. We recently bought a Kia Sorrento Ex for 28,000 and as a test drive we took it to Vegas. This car accelarated incredibly well we were passing every car on the way on the way up to mountains of 3000 and 4000 feet of elvation.... It is incredibly comfortable and sporty... Honestly people go get one if you can I strongly recommend it....

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  Take car of your car it takes care of you - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By car buyer - May 25 - 2:56 pm

  Love, love, love this car. Weve had it for 3 years now and havent a single serious problem. It drives great, fun, sporty, cheap! Been a great family car.

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  Great suv for price - 2012 Kia Sorento
  By samdog2 - May 14 - 7:30 pm

  We were looking to purchase a fuel effecient Suv and the 32 mpg advertised on the sticker was awesome. We went with the 2.4L 16-valve DOHC CVVT 4-cylinder engine. However, we have driven 3,000 miles and have yet to get any where near 32 mpg. This has been highway as well as back road miles. The average mileage is between 24 mpg and 25 mpg no matter where or how we drive. A relative purchased the Ex model a few weeks after us and he hasnt gotten 32 mpg either. Almost all of his miles are on the highway. Other wise we love the vehicle!!!!!!!!!

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  Bang for the buck - 2007 Kia Sorento
  By Caseman1969 - May 14 - 10:26 am

  This is a very nice vehicle for the money. Kia used to be considered a third rate company, but boy have they come on strong. The sound of the door closing alone tells you the quality of the vehicle. No cheap sounding pings here. A solid thud.

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  KIA MY LEXUS - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By DEBRA ADEN - May 14 - 4:50 am

  This car has been a great joy to drive as well as so many features that are on the car. We looked at more expensive cars and couldnt find a reason why the Kia Sorrento should not be considered a tremendous value for the money.