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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  Im Pleased Overall - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By John Schleifer - September 7 - 3:56 pm

  I"ve had the car for over 5 years now. I wanted to get quality and resale. However, the resale and problems are not that must different than American cars which Ive always purchased. Not too many problems, but, as usual, when taking the car in for the minor problems, under warranty, they "cannot duplicate condition." However, now that my warranty has expired, they seem to find the issues ricght away when Im paying for the repairs. Go figure. Probably my last Kia. Problems included: leaking radiator overflow tank, Air-Bag light, outdoor temperature guage (ner repaired by the way). Gas Miliage is terrible. My wifes Cheyy Avalanche gets better miliage!

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  Poor Quality Parts - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By Scott - September 6 - 8:56 pm

  I have owned my Sorento for over five years now and for the most part I have been happy with it. However, It does have some re-occurring issues. For the first two years I had to replace the rotors every 6 months. All along the dealership telling me that it was my driving habits. I finally quit buying kia parts and replaced the rotors with after market part off the internet. I have not had an issue since. I have also had numerous electrical issues that the dealership can never fix because it doesnt occur when we take it in. Unfortunately if the cars computer doesnt tell them what is wrong, they are done looking. It is too bad because the vehical isnt that bad, it just needs better parts.

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  Great Value - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By Jim595909 - September 4 - 10:00 am

  This is a solid suv and fun to drive. GM could take a few lessons from Kia. I always was buy American..Ive had bad expieriences with GM products costing much more then my Kia. The company should have more quality control and the uaw should figure that the rest of America cant buy products built by overpaid sloppy union workers. thank you!

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  LOVING IT - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By CONNIE T - September 4 - 10:00 am

  LOOKS LIKE THE LEXUS SUV...ONE CLOSE-UP PEEK INSIDE THE LUXURIOUS INTERIOR AND YOU WILL BE HOOKED TOO!

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  Dont waste your money - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By sandersfam - September 2 - 10:00 am

  We have had one problem after another with this vehicle since driving if off the lot! First, the turn signal housing went out completely and had to be replaced. The back-up camera has never worked correctly and is finally being replaced after several trips to the dealership service center. Now, the service engine light is on and the engine is missing out or dying altogether - in the middle of traffic no less! Weve never gotten the gas mileage (not even close) as advertised or on the sticker. Now, today, we get notified of a safety recall due to wiring and possible fire hazard! This is our first non-Chevy purchase and our last!

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  So Far So Good! - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By raggedyluver - August 29 - 2:00 am

  Being a new Kia Sorento owner (2months), I can only state what I know now and so far, so Good! The car is comfortable to ride in and to drive & very smooth ride/ My test drive was on the roughest road around here and it was excellent. The seats are plushy and everything I need is right at hand, the only complaint so far is how close the front seats are to the gearshift and stoarge box. I love my new car and weve noticed how close the front hood looks like the very expensive Lexus around! It is top of the line for safety and the warranty cant be beat.I highly suggest you check this one out.We need to see more Kias on the road! Dgh

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  Love It - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By llvdrivers - August 29 - 2:00 am

  Very sporty looking vehicle. It has a strong engine, although it is a little noisy. The workmanship seems to be high quality, and the vehicle has an awful lot of great features for a reasonable price.

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  LEXUS OF KOREA - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By headstix - August 29 - 2:00 am

  After reading reviews and shopping around alot I settled on the Sorento EX with the AWD luxury package. When I pulled into my daughters driveway her husband came out and gasped " Lexus 300 ". I said look at the grill. "KIA,oh my god". That was the first of many. This is a solid truck. The controls are intuitive. The sound system is the bomb. The interior makes me feel like I stole the bosses Escalade. My wife leaves her Liberty in the driveway. Nice.

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  AMAZING VALUE - 2013 Kia Sorento
  By seanminnesota - August 27 - 6:41 am

  Had my 2013 Sorento for about a month and love everything about this vehicle. Have owned Nissan, VW, Audi, Honda and the Sorento beats them all on interior design and comfort as well as handling (with exception of course of Audi). Every possible bell and whistle and perfectly executed. Handles like a dream in snow and ice. MPG slightly lower than I expected but still quite good for a vehicle this size. Hands down my favorite car yet, test drive the Sorento if youre in the market for this type vehicle. The other tipping point for me was the third row seating, awesome for hauling my nephews and their friends and when folded down provides terrific cargo space.

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  Best Vehicle! - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By Brooke - August 26 - 2:00 am

  I love my new Sorento! As of all new models they sometimes have problems, had a recall fix but with no other problems! I wouldnt trade this vehicle for anything. Its so fun to drive and the 4 cyl gets great gas mileage with all the power I need. I would recommend Shottenkirk Kia of Quincy Il to anyone. they are great and really treat their customers from everything to the sale to follow up to service!