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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  Over The Top for A Cheap Import - 2016 Kia Sorento
  By Chainplate - October 19 - 1:09 pm

  I should probably wait to write a review as Ive only had the car for a couple of weeks and havent driven it that much (I think it still has less than 500 miles on it). Regardless, Im delighted with the car as it handles and performs far better than I expected it would. There are places where the fit isnt what a top-tier car should be but, then, its not a top-tier car. However, from someone who has owned 8 Mercedes-Benz, this car performs right up there. Some of the things I especially like: 1. The Hyundai Lambda engine is an excellent match for the car. Its very responsive and the relatively high butt gears gets you off the line with a nice snap. No, this isnt a muscle car V8 but for a small SUV, its damned decent. I dont complain about the fuel economy though my children might disown me for not buying a hybrid. 2. Exceptional braking with virtually no loss of control - even in hard braking maneuvers. Granted, Im not too aggressive with the brakes right now as Im letting them break in gently but the car still stops in a very short amount of distance. 3. The navigation/entertainment center is very easy to use - it all makes sense. Ive owned cars where I was continually searching through the manual to figure out, "How do I make it do . . . " whereas on the Kia, its easy to find the features Im looking for. Even the more esoteric features that arent used much, theyre easy to find. The sound system is excellent. 4. I absolutely love the self-leveling, HID headlights. Since Im an old man, my night vision isnt what Id like it to be. With these headlights, I can see everything in front of me clearly. Good news for you who drive near me at night! 5. Consumer Reports rates the car as having an excellent frequency of repair record. Im hoping theyre right. 6. I like the looks of the car. Subjective, I know, but its better than driving a car that I think is ugly. 7. My brother-in-law, who likes to point out everything whats wrong with everything I do, said that KIA stands for Killed in Action. Actually, Ki is Chinese for energy (sometimes transliterated as Qi). They added the a to stand for Asia, despite the fact that the car is built in the USA. Now that I own one, I see them all over the place. There are three things that I dont like about the car: 1. No Day Time Running Lights. I could turn the headlights on during the day but that leads me to Dislike Number 2. 2. Theres no warning chime, buzzer, etc if you leave your headlights on, shut off the engine and open the door the door. I think thats been a feature on virtually every car made in the last 40 years! Granted, the electrical system will shut down everything if the voltage gets too low - nice feature - but thats hard on batteries if you like to have the car lit up during the day and arent warned that youre leaving your headlights on. 3. Our trim line uses a hard, black plastic for parts of the steering wheel, the window control trim and the center console. How much could have it cost to do those pieces out of a nice wood?

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  Words cant even describe the rage... - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By freqsounds - October 14 - 7:58 am

  You couldnt pay me to drive another one of these. My wife and I both purchased our own Sorentos. Each Sorento shares the same problems. These problems include transmission, engine, interior trim, electrical, body, and brake problems. The transmission slips, jolts, and resists the movement of the car. The engine sometimes misfires and makes a loud ticking noise. The interior trim doesnt line up and easily pops off. The headlights cut out and the backup cam doesnt always work. The body panels dont line up the way they should. The brakes are spongy and caused my wife to get in an accident, rear ending a Focus at 10mph, costing $4000 of damage.

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  Review - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By Nick - October 11 - 10:00 am

  Have 4500 miles on my 2011 Sorento and just barely still have the fillings in my teeth. Over city streets it feels like the suspension is going to fail. Ive contacted Kia. many times and their answer is that a fix hasnt been issued yet for the suspension. I guess they will wait long enough for me to get upset enough and sell the car then their off the hook. The car has a lot of nice features but driving city streets everyday comfortably isnt one of them. If you experience the same problem contact Kia and complain.

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  The Best SUV for the money - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By Joe - October 11 - 6:40 am

  This SUV is definitely one for the record books. It has all the frills without the bills. In other words it doesnt cost a lot to own. Well worth the money and great value. Santa Ana Kia has the best service too. They do free oil changes, wash your vehicle all with a smile.

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  Nice surprise - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By Mooflygoos - October 7 - 2:00 am

  Did not know KIA brand, accidential stopped at the dealer, took the Sorentio of test drive, after comparing it to other SUV and doing a little research, could not find a better buy. Excellent value for the vehicle and features. It is a fun vehicle to drive. Excellent safety features, which resulted in a lower cost of insurance. Nice warrant, looked at several other vehicle, for the money could not find one that could compare.

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  Tight fun - 2016 Kia Sorento
  By David - October 6 - 2:48 am

  I have test driven 4 different Kia Sorentos and I recommend skipping any of the 4 cylinder models. I went over to the Nissan dealer after trying those models and almost didnt return. The 6 cylinder is pure driving joy. They have a $32,000 model with the 6 cylinder, leather, satellite radio.. And no sun roof.. For me this model would have been perfect except the radio really sounds lousy and its virtually impossible to upgrade. This is a $10,000 savings over other similarly equipped three row SUVs on the market. Since I really care about my music I wouldve had to upgrade to the $38,000 model which adds a panoramic sunroof gorgeous rims and larger tires plus an infinity sound system. The drive is very nimble and sporty while-being smooth enough for those of us who like a little tactile communication with the road. Other three row SUVs on the market feel much more cumbersome, heavy And over bloated by comparison: while the 2016 Kia Sorrento feels lean, agile, youthful and fun to drive. It feels like a precision machine: very well put together.

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  Good autos - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By leonard poole - October 1 - 2:46 pm

  Auto handles well like safety features ride good solid body and good on long trips and dont tire you out.

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  Japanese quality at Korean price - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By jmace57 - October 1 - 2:00 am

  After doing a LOT of research, we decided to purchase an EX model. The dealer had one that we liked, but had 3 fairly expensive options that we did not really want (running boards, trailer package, load leveling). The dealer threw them in at the price we had negotiated for one without these features. I have been very happy with the quality and comfort of the vehicle - much better than the 2002 Ford Explorer XLT we traded in.

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  We Love Our KIA! - 2012 Kia Sorento
  By bjohnsonstl - September 27 - 10:46 am

  We have had our Kia Sorento from Suntrup Kia in St. Louis for about 3 months now. We have been on 2 long trips (one 1600 miles round trip) and the car has performed very well. We love our Kia and will certainly be buying another Sorento in about 5 years.

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  Never thought Id buy a KIA.. - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By Scott - September 27 - 8:53 am

  I thought KIAs were cheap disposable cars. Then we went and tried a test drive. It wasnt too bad after all, and the warranty was excellent. We do have a problem with the clock. the dealer says he has 16 on backorder so I guess this is going to be a major problem for the folks at KIA if the failure rate on them is this high at 1 dealer.. We also had a shudder in the drive line when starting from a dead stop; the dealer took out some rubber blocks that were in the words of the dealer "made too soft" for the application. Problem solved. We only have 3,000 miles on the truck now and hope this will be as good of a car when it has 130,000 miles on it!