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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  BEWARE of KIA !! - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By LWaylett - December 27 - 4:40 pm

  KIA Motors does not honor their warranties by FIXING the defects in their vehicles. My 2004 Sorento has had MANY bulbs replaced and Kia service said they did not know what the problem was. Now that my warranty has expired, I find that KIA DID know the harness wiring needed to be replaced so fix the reoccurring problems of headlights/tail lights going out. They knew this back in 2006, and made those changes on their new vehicles in 2007.

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  bad apple - 2007 Kia Sorento
  By cindy ingram - December 3 - 9:20 pm

  I have had my Sorento for almost two years and at first I loved it but after my first service it started hesitating at steady speeds or slowing down. They cant fix it because they only hook it up to a machine that tells them what is wrong and it shows nothing so they keep sending me home with the problem. I have learned a lesson about KIAs and that is to run as far away as you can get from them. They are junk. I know things happen with vehicles but normally you can get them repaired. I hate it. If you buy one you better beware because they are not worth anything when you try to trade them in.

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  Month 1: Happy | Mnth 3: Sad | Mnth 4: Hating It - 2016 Kia Sorento
  By Anan - October 22 - 1:41 pm

  Edited After owning this for 4 months: I should not have bought this vehicle , Feeling very bad for throwing money down the drain. The Vehicle Suspension is very bad. Took to Dealer they said everything is fine as per specs. I noticed that the Vehicle is deteriorating very fastly. In Just 4 months - It shakes as if roller coaster and no suspension is there and too much vibration. Gear shifting is not smooth. Ride comfort is not there , Cornering is not good. and engine has become noisy. Also noticed Wind noise is not acceptable - it is getting worse now at 50 miles Wind noise is too much. I am already hating my vehicle within 4 months. ---------------------------- I own my 2016 sorento Lx for just one month now. Though I was very happy initially now I feel there are areas of improvement like air and road noise at higher speeds like 70 mph. And vehicle suspension is smooth but left-right bumpiness is too much that is annoying and continues for a long duration - I always owned sedan and this is first SUV so not sure if this is normal. Ride is smooth. 3 Mirrors and rear view camera All have different zoom ratio which is very confusing and needs real improvement. Overall I am happy. I always owned Brand value cars like Honda. Trusting Kia as they have shown serious improvement. Hope they dont fail me on my first Kia. The warranty of 10 years 100k is what made me trust Kia.

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  Very poor gas mileage - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By nokia2011 - October 19 - 10:21 am

  45,XXX update. Sold a Jett TDI to buy this car and loved it until recently when I realized the gas mileage would never climb above 23.5 MPG. For many of you it might be acceptable but thats the good part, when the MN weather comes calling, I cant get above 20 MPG. So maybe you think I stand on the gas peddal, not a chance...were talking easy 65 mph on the highway and some county roads with a little bit of town driving. With my wife driving it around a small town all week, I pull 18 MPG. I really want to love this car but the gas mileage is terrible. My 2012 VW passat at 10K miles is pulling and easy 33-34 MPG. Sorry Kia, youve lost a customer who really wanted to stay with youl.

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  Kia is Korean for "Bad Brakes" - 2007 Kia Sorento
  By James - September 15 - 2:13 pm

  I traded a 2004 Sedona van because of repeated brake issues (2 sets of rotors and 4 brake jobs in 64,000 miles) and was assured the brake problems had been fixed. My Sorrento has 37,000 miles and is on its second set of replacement rotors. The brake warrenty is only 12,000 miles; guess why. Also, the scheduled maintenance that is required in order to keep the warrenty intact is very expensive ($524.00 for the 30,000 mile service). Gas milage is poor for the size of the car. The car depreciates rapidly (mine is only worth $10,400 on a trade-in according to Kelly Blue Book).

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  first new vehicle in 40 years - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By Armand - August 15 - 8:13 pm

  As an avid auto enthusiast building race cars and street rods, I always bought used and altered to what I wanted. Getting older now so I wanted a vehicle I wouldnt have to work on. After inspecting workmanship and seeing warranty I decided this was vehicle worth my money. Can be driven anywhere at any time with no worries. Vehicle has a sporty feel with a little more road feedback that I find important in a vehicle. Being driven daily and handles well.

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  Ill Never Buy Another Kia - 2008 Kia Sorento
  By Shannon - June 2 - 10:00 am

  I dont know where to start. This was my first new car purchase and I am so disappointed. I guess Ill just make a list: 1) recurring transmission problem (shifts hard) its intermittent and the dealership can never replicate it so they wont fix it 2) passenger airbag sensor only works intermittently, theyve changed the whole seat cushion twice, it still doesnt work 3) the air conditioning compressor has been replace twice and a pulley once 4) rear hatch rattling 5) horrible gas mileage, 6) terrible sound system 7) rear floorboard trim keeps popping off 8) air blows out all vents no matter what setting you have it on 9) headlights 10) valve cover gasket is leaking, I would not recommend it!

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  Please Be Careful! - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By seaojoy - April 29 - 10:00 am

  I traded in my Hyundai Santa Fe for the Kia Sorrento LX, BIG MISTAKE!!! Poor gas mileage, over-steering, and by far the most DANGEROUS aspect to this SUV are the BLIND SPOTS that the Sorrento is plagued with. The front hood slope makes parking w/o hitting a curb or stall barricade impossible. Complete driver and passenger side blind spots. Finally, because the rear cargo hatch window is situated so high, you really cant see smaller cars directly behind you. Ive been driving for 34-years, and this SUV terrifies me.

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  Dont buy the 4 Cylinder - 2012 Kia Sorento
  By barbieharley - February 7 - 9:26 am

  Just bought a 2012 Sorento LX with the 2.4L 4 cylinder engine. Took it home and it drove great. It was a little sluggish compared to my 2004 Hyundai Santa Fe with the 3.5L V6 but I thought it would save on gas. I took it to work the next day and didnt even get 20 miles and it wouldnt shift out of first gear. I will be returning it within the 5 day period. Will never buy another 4 Cylinder car.

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  2011 Sorento LX - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By srj1265 - February 3 - 5:36 pm

  I have owned my Sorento for about a month. Didnt notice a real rough ride on test drive (test model had different wheels/ tires), but the ride is horrible!!! This isnt as some describe as a stiff ride, think more like a vehicle having about 120,000 miles on it right out of the gate. Actually that may be better. The DFD shocks that are fitted in the SX (now on all models?) may help a little. I will be complaining to my dealer and Kia regarding this and if unresolved I guess I will take a "bath" and trade it in for a non Kia vehicle. This may have been my worse purchase I have ever made, depending on how kia handles the situation.