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 SUV for the price - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By unknown - August 21 - 12:33 am

  In the Oregon mountains, we have lots of snow and this small suv with the big ground clearance out drives our Ford Explorer. Our Sorento has every extra known to man and is $7 to $10,000 cheaper to buy than any suv outfitted as nice. Best of all the Sorento is a pickup truck on a luxury body. It is tough.

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  Outstanding SUV Five Stars The Best - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By johnnysmith1 - August 14 - 10:00 am

  Great value for the money, the best SUV in my opinion, the interior is a Mercedes-Benz.

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  Applause! - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By MLReno - August 14 - 10:00 am

  LOVE the interior. VERY comfortable and excellent on long trips. Easy for kids or guests to get in and out of. Will definately purchase another KIA

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  Most ppl who test dr the Sorento buy 1 ! - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By Lowes48 - August 14 - 10:00 am

  We couldnt be happier with this truck. It is beautiful inside and out. Yes Gas mileage is a little inefficient, but it is better than my Jeep Grnd Cher ltd. so we cant complain too much. We are constantly getting compliments on it. I would agree w/ another review that the Rear View Mirror is somewhat impeded. Test Drive this true truck. The others are just cars on big wheels.

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  Kia should be sued for lying about mpgs! - 2013 Kia Sorento
  By kialies1 - August 14 - 2:07 am

  While the Sorento is comfortable, quiet, quick, and well appointed, the poor gas mileage is a deal breaker! If we had known what it was going to get, which is about 23mpgs at best on highway, we never wouldve bought it. The number they gave at the dealership was 32mpg, which now, after being sued, they have adjusted to 30, which puts the Sorento below competitors instead of ahead. But we cant even get close to 30 ever!! Our Volvo gets exactly what it says on the sticker no matter the driving conditions. Dont be fooled! If you want it for other reasons, go ahead. But dont think they are competitive with Honda, Toyota, or others in this class. They continue to lie. It seems criminal.

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  Cant beat the Value - 2013 Kia Sorento
  By tntwolf07 - August 11 - 9:54 am

  We purchased our 2013 Kia as my wife was looking for a mid-sized SUV. We looked at Honda,Nissan and several other but for the price range we wanted to stay in the Kia Sorento was by far the most stylish and offered the best standard features and Warrenty.

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  Kia Sorrento EX - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By Hans1234 - August 9 - 10:00 am

  Generally a great SUV for the money. Sturdy, well behaved and easy on the eyes with lots of extras. Good built quality throughout. Good overall engine performance but a little thirsty.

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  So far, So..rento Good! - 2007 Kia Sorento
  By huntram - August 6 - 11:53 am

  We have just had this car for two weeks. My wife just started a new job and has to commute 100 miles round trip. She feels very safe in the Sorento. I am pleased with the Kia warranty. The car is VERY responsive, in acceleration, braking, and steering. The fit and finish is very good. Forget what youve heard about Kia in the past!

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  Loved My Kia - 2006 Kia Sorento
  By Sheri - August 5 - 9:20 am

  I drove a 2006 Sorento Lx for one year. To no fault of my own it was involved in an accident and totaled. I miss it and wish I still had it. It was so much fun to drive. Plenty of room for me and my 3 young kids! The sport trac shifter it had was wonderful! I really wish I still had it or could get another one NOW!! I loved that car!

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  So far its been great! - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By artiejoe - August 5 - 2:00 am

  So far I am very happy with the new Sorento. It has a lot more than an older S-10 Blazer I own (1992) that I bought new. If the Sorento holds up close to the way the Blazer did, I wil be a very happy camper.