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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  Wanted one for years - 2008 Kia Sorento
  By Gary L. - February 7 - 11:03 am

  This is not your typical Kia. With 242 horsepower this truck comes with lots of power, I was very impressed with the acceleration ability of this vehicle. Roars like a truck! Not annoying loud, just loud enough to remind you every time you start it that this is not a crossover SUV. Very stylish and fun to drive.

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  a disappointing surprise - 2006 Kia Sorento
  By harold - February 5 - 12:13 pm

  Needed a new engine when 11 months old. Clock ran 10 min fast. Headlights needed replacing every year. With 60,000 miles on the new engine it needed new coils for $1800 and was dripping oil in the garage. Lots of noise recently--needed new manifold pipes. Traded it for a Honda CRV last week. Truly a disappointment. A 10-year warranty did not cover anything but the new engine.

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  WORTH THE PRICE OF FUEL - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By J - February 4 - 3:10 am

  This is my second Sorento and I love it more than the first! The accident that wrecked the first one would have killed a vast majority of drivers in other SUVs. I walked away without a scratch and was back on the road in a new one the next day. I am extremely pleased with all aspects of the vehicle. Though a pair of 17 or 18" aluminum rims should be available. My new Sorento is often mistaken for a Lexus because of its awesome styling. The interior is top notch. For the money this is easily the best value available. You can load this thing with all the options, put aftermarket accessories and customize it for less than many other inferior SUVs. A perfect fit for even the most critical buyer.

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  Brand new 16 Sorento AWD LX with Convenience pkg! - 2016 Kia Sorento
  By Michael DeSimone - January 30 - 11:46 pm

  Loving my new Sorento and still have money left in my pocket! Looks great and drives great. This new remodel turns heads. Everyone on my block and at my kids school has been asking about it. Sharp looking interior, well thought out with lots of cargo space plus additional storage bins underneath. Rear back-up camera, bluetooth, UVO services (voice command), heated seats, AWD, parking sensor, USB ports everywhere, power adjustable drivers seat and many other bells and whistles. Compared to Explorers, Highlanders and Pilots, you get so much more bang for your buck plus a far better bumper-to-bumper and powertrain warranty. I now jump at the opportunity to run out and get something, anything, just to get me in my new 2016 Sorento!!

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  Just Purchased - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By PatsFan - January 29 - 2:00 am

  Luxury Group and ABS for 25,485..500 dollars overinvoice..Had TO haggle dealers in Boston area...Herb Chambers was the best on price..Boch was horrible..Stay away from them. They wouldnt come down on price at all.They are actually trying to sell them for 2% over sticker price.

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  sorento - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By joep32757 - January 27 - 10:00 am

  good value ,handeling ,superior saftey and warranty, fit and finnish is very good .quiet ride.

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  love my Kia - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By becki - January 24 - 11:46 am

  I love my little SUV . I couldnt imagine living without it. I test drove a lot of SUVs and this one was my favorite. For the price and the way it handles on the road, its great. I plan on trading it in in two years for a new one. I have never done that before. Excellent Kia!

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  Loved 2010 Soul/Amazed by 2011 Sporento - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By Diana - January 24 - 4:20 am

  I bought 2 Kias last year, a used 2009 Spectra for my son, and new Soul for me. Both are great cars. No problems. When the 2011 Sorento came out, it was a no brainer - I traded my sweet little Soul in and upgraded to the top of the line Sorento V6, and I am in heaven! The Sorento is AWESOME! I am sold on KIA. My Toyota/Honda friends are still shocked and dumbfounded at the incredible cars KIA is making! PS - I traded a Toyota Solara for the SOUL last year, and once I got a taste of KIA quality, all that space, bluetooth, satelite radio, etc, I was sold! PS - the Sorento V6 is definitely worth the loss of a couple of miles per gallon of gasoline over any V4!

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  Great SUV - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By Bob Jones - January 24 - 2:00 am

  Ive only had my Sorento for about 3 weeks and I already have over 3000 miles on it. I was skeptical about buying a Kia but so far I am pleasatly surprised. It is a great SUV for the money. Fun to drive and looks good too.

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  Great SUV - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By Bob JOnes - January 24 - 2:00 am

  Ive only had my Sorento for about 3 weeks and I already have over 3000 miles on it. I was skeptical about buying a Kia but so far I am pleasatly surprised. It is a great SUV for the money. Fun to drive and looks good too.