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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  so far so good - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By harley boy - September 8 - 4:26 pm

  just purchased the sorento a couple of months ago, and im very happy with the overall performance. there are some complaints about fuel economy from others, but i feel that the numbers are right in line with what we choose to drive.

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  I LOVE MY SORENTO - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By Roadturtle - September 5 - 6:33 pm

  So far I am very impressed with my Sorento. A perfect size 4x4 for me. Fit and finish is excellant. Good ride. I am getting 16 mpg around town. I drive 99 % around town, the other 1% frwy, and off road in the desert. I received $ 5000 off MSRP. Great price for a better than average 4x4. The warranty was the deal closer. Cant beat it. I would truly recommend a KIA to anyone.

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  BMW, Lexus, Lincoln or Kia? - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By Kevster - September 1 - 10:00 am

  I needed a new SUV and started the old search/compare deal. I test drove all the brands, and then finally Kia. For me, luxury and price were the issues. Dont get me wrong, the BMW is nice and Lexus is smooth as silk, but when I compared the features in my EX luxury model with those of the others, I just couldnt see spending the extra 10 to 30K. Research aside, I have to say that my Sorento purchase is the smartest thing Ive done in years. I just love this car, its comfortable, drives well, has OK gas mileage and I didnt spend a mint to have the status of a certain logo, cause honestly, thats the only differnce in the Kia and BMW X-5. Really.

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  Not impressed in Nashville - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By chicks in nashville - August 30 - 6:20 pm

  After an hour and half of us signing on the dotted line, we had a check engine light come on. When you read the manual it says its related to the omission sensor. After 3 months and many visits to the dealer, we (dealer/manufacturer) think the problem has been resolved. Kia sent a field engineer to the dealer who spent, in total, 3 days trying different things and replacing several parts. Also, over the course of these three months we had other issues arise. The backup camera picture was distorted at times. The DVD player didnt work. The Auto climate control function went out and makes a rattling noise. And the list goes on and on. First time buying a Kia and not impressed.

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  Lousy car - 2007 Kia Sorento
  By mg - August 30 - 10:00 am

  Car has leak from the top rail. Kia never fixed. Always vibrates when you brake.

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  Wife loves the KIA - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By jack Johnson - August 30 - 10:00 am

  We love the KIA, the look and warranty is what got me interested.I had looked at the HIGHLANDER and ARCADIA.The wife (since she drives it more) feels more comfortable in the KIA compared to the ARCADIA and we like the body style and looks better than the HIGHLANDER along the warranty and price the KIA won. PROBLEM, within 2 months bad shock and rear tire was faulty, I had to pay for the tire since the manufacturer has no warranty. nether were on the dealer shelf so that meant extra trip to the dealer and vehicle downtime. We were told that the spare tire was full size, wrong it is a donut, 55 mile per hour made the trips to the dealer longer.had to order the cargo cover, not what the salesman said

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  We love it! - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By Hawkize1 - August 30 - 10:00 am

  Bought the EX-V6 AWD in June so far have 3800 trouble free enjoyable miles on it. Been on a couple day trips with the vehicle and have loved the ride, the mileage and value. We avg 25.7 mpg on 70-72 mph interstate driving and 27.5 at 55- 60mph. Fun to drive and has many great features. No problems with the Sorento what so ever. Id always opt for the V6.

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  BETTER VALUE FOR YOU DOLLAR - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By SUS56 - August 25 - 7:30 pm

  WE LOVE THE SORENTO SUV, THERE IS NO BETTER WARRANTY OUT THERE ESPECIALLY FOR THE MIDDLE CLASS FAMILY. STORAGE IS GREAT, INTERIORS ARE HANDSOME AND PRACTICAL. WE ONLY ADDED CUSTOM, COLOR CODED RUNNING BOARDS FROM A VAN CONVERSION PLACE AND THIS REALLY ADDED TO THE SHARPNESS OF THIS VEHICLE. EVERYONE THINKS IT IS A LEXUS, GUESS THAT WOULD BE A GREAT COMPLIMENT. YET THE PRICE IS MUCH MORE AFFORABLE.

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  full package - 2013 Kia Sorento
  By oside760 - August 25 - 12:01 am

  Was looking to buy a 2012 sorento but couldnt find 4 cyl with third row convenience package so just got a 2013 just the way I wanted it. I love this car. The gas mileage. It picks up very good. Smooth comfortable ride. Love the evo the back up camera and everything. Looked at the traverse, Mazda cx9, explorer but none matched the sorento. I never thought I would have a Kia but I love it. Great value.

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  Great Car - 2006 Kia Sorento
  By sportdee - August 24 - 6:23 am

  Havent had any issues with the car other than frequent burn out of rear lights. Fun to drive, nice to travel in, and plenty of room for 4. I would get another one in the future!