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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  Best Buy - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By mmuller - May 9 - 2:00 am

  Before purchasing our first SUV I did about 4 months of research. Based on recommendations from a couple of auto analysts and various internet sites I stopped looking at domestic SUVs. Looked at the Toyotas and Hondas which are great but a person is not getting that much more for the added 8- 10K. After driving the Sorento for the first time I was sold. Great looks, good performance, spacious interior, and real 4X4 capability were the major selling points. The price is where alot of the other SUVs should be also.

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  I JUST LOVE IT - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By COLON RUBEN - May 4 - 10:00 am

  BUILD JUST RIGHT FOR MY NEEDS

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  I picked Kia over Chevy and Ford - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By Suzy - May 1 - 3:50 am

  I bought my Kia after driving both the Ford Escape and the Chevy Trailblazer. I traded a Chevy Blazer Extreme for my Kia. It has much more room than the SUVs we test drove. And I love it.

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  Wow, what a deal - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By Jenifern - April 25 - 2:00 am

  I love my Sorento. I am so impressed, its the luxury of the Lexus, RX300, the off-road of a Jeep for thousands less and a better warranty. The quality is impressive for the price, and well see about long term quality. But so far, Its worth the money.

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  The verdict is still out... - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By KIA4now - April 25 - 2:00 am

  Had the SUV for a week know. This is my second Sorento...when I bought a 4x2 version I was told that ALL Sorentos came with a limited slip rear. This is not the case! Only 4x4 versions come with the limited slip. Im pleased with the look, power, and standard features. Im a little cautious about the reliability of the vehicle...Ive had the drivers side window stop working...which was fixed by turning off the ignition and restarting. Also have squeaks where the back passenger seats connect to the release for folding down. The clock also runs slow....about 6 minutes over a weeks time. This was a big step for me...my first import. Im really relying on this warranty!

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  My first SUV - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By lok888 - April 25 - 2:00 am

  I decided to buy this Sorento as a family car. I didnt waste much time to make my decision. I just saw the TV commericals, went to the auto show, test drive and did some research from edmunds. I like the styling. It has a Lexus RX300 look. It is very comfortable for rear passengers. Every buttons are soft touch and easy to use. Best price for a fully loaded SUV.

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  Glad to be rid of it! - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By Julie - April 18 - 4:46 am

  I had nothing but problems from the time I bought my Kia brand new. Crack in the drive shaft with less than 300 miles on it a month after I bought it. Constant electrical problems that the dealer couldnt fix: brake lights out every 3 months, headlights out every 6 months. Both headlights blew out at the same time once! $400+ to replace sensors, including throttle and airbag, which warranty had just expired (conveniently). Bad catalytic converter, which went bad 2K miles after warranty expired. This is the WORST purchase of my life. The only reason I didnt get rid of it sooner was because I was STUCK with it: they depreciate too fast you cant trade them in. PLANNED OBSOLESCENCE @ its best!

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  KIA DAYS - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By Frank - April 16 - 7:10 am

  If you forget about the poor mileage, (you can almost see the dial on the gas gauge go down while driving), everything else is splendid. My wife and I love our KIA Sorento. It looks great, rides well, and has the get-up-and-go that you want in an SUV. The real challenge at KIA is to get more people interested in the vehicle. This SUV truly is a hidden treasure. PS: A side note to the engineers at KIA. Come on guys. In this day and age, with the price of gas sky-rocketing, youve go to do something about fuel efficiency.

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  IRRESPONSIBLE AND PATHETIC - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By Sorry Sorento - April 16 - 4:00 am

  I have over $6000 dollars in maintenance and service in my car. This does not include my rental car expenses because of the numerous times my car has been in the shop. I have replaced headlights, brake lights, parking lights, dome lights, fog lights and interior lights repetitively. I have replaced the timing belt, various ac parts, brakes, power seat motor, power locks, radio, battery, and car alarm parts. This is an attractive SUV with wonderful bells and whistles. It is an irresponsible and pathetic product. The 10 year, 100,000 mile warranty is useless and misleading. They do not stand by their product and it has awful resale value. Do not buy this vehicle regardless of the price!

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  It performed so good, I bought another KIA. - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By rsgamboa - April 11 - 8:19 pm

  Performance, fuel, design is great. I had it for 3 years now with 24,539 miles. Drives great especially on road trips (maybe except for the leather is a little firm). MPG is what they said it was. No problems yet inside and out. My wife and I like it so much (KIA) that 6 months after, we bought a 2010 KIA Forte w/ 6 speed auto transmission and electric motor steering.