2003 Kia Sorento Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.60/5 Average
321 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

The Sorento is an all-new SUV from Kia. Larger and more powerful than the pint-size Sportage (which is expected to return for 2004 after a 2003 hiatus, by the way), the Sorento straddles the emerging middle ground between small SUVs and midsize SUVs. And it does so while offering interested buyers true off-road ability. Key competitors are the Ford Escape, the Honda CR-V, the Jeep Liberty, the Nissan Xterra and the Toyota Highlander.

Pros:
  • Great value, class-leading warranty coverage, long list of standard features, solid construction, true off-road capability.
Cons:
  • Engine needs more power, subpar fuel economy, seat upholstery could stand improvement.

User Reviews:

Showing 81 through 90 of 321.00
  • Bang for the Buck - 2003 Kia Sorento
    By -

    After looking at most SUVs in this class, I was taken back by the quality of construction and features offered in this SUV. Then match it with a warranty unmatched in this price range, they had me sold. After 6 months I love it as much as the day I bought it. Kia could use a little work in the bang for the gallon area.

  • Sorento is a beauty - 2003 Kia Sorento
    By -

    This car/truck is FABULOUS! The appointments that are standard are superb. The performance of the engine is fantastic. I have read other reviews that say the power is inadequate. I hvent experienced that problem at all. I power braked from a dead stop and ran a test from 0 to 100 miles an hour to 0 to see if it had any pep. I also had it up to 110 miles an hour and it handled like a sports car with hardly any roughness or vibration at all. I dont usually drive like this at all, but I figured id give it the once over. I have previously been loyal to Toyota (a great vehicle manufacturer too)but so far my impression with this vehicle has been positive.

  • Happy New Owner - 2003 Kia Sorento
    By -

    I have been researching to buy a new vehicle since November 2002. I saw the Sorento and fell in love. A test drive only confirmed how great this vehicle is. My dealer was great and I got a pretty good deal on my Black EX with Lux Package, ABS, Spoiler, Load Leveling, and Cargo Tray. Unlike other SUVs that I looked at, I feel like I got a lot of goodies for my money with the Sorento.

  • My Luxury Model - 2003 Kia Sorento
    By -

    The Sorento is a beautiful car with a sleek eye catching design. It drives like a luxury model for the price of an economic vehicle. People that drive the more expensive luxury models take a look inside my vehicle and are amazed at the beautiful design and the comfort that this car has. I have even let people test drive my car to see the expressions on their faces on how smooth this vehicle drives. Basically, everyone that sees my car loves it. This vehicle is just perfect all around.

  • My First SUV - 2003 Kia Sorento
    By -

    Was driving a Ford Escort and wanted something with power and attitude when driving rush hour on highway. Got both with a lot of fun to boot! Now I just nod my head as Im passin the other big boys. I was surprised at comfort in the back and space it gave my passengers and family. The front has plenty of leg space without taking any from the back from what I can see. Overall, I love it and drive every chance I get.

  • none - 2003 Kia Sorento
    By -

    Wonderful ride, great price and awsome warranty

  • Sorentos Rock! - 2003 Kia Sorento
    By -

    Simply put, its great! After driving various models I was surprised to find the Sorento competes most closly with the benchmark Lexus (in terms of comfort/conveinence/performance) than any others tested (15 models). Ill write again once the odometer hits 30k to let you know reliability. The downside: Avg MPG Real competitors in size/weight/hp (Lexus/Jeep/Ford) avg better, but the safty, room, ride quality, cabin quiteness, and solid construction cannot be had until you practically double the price! If you do the math (gas @ 2.00 per gallon and 15K miles per year)the gas "savings" you get will take 23-37 YEARS of driving to realize!

  • Sorento Rocks - 2003 Kia Sorento
    By -

    We love our Sorento!!! Just bought it loaded out except for the Luxury package. It has the looks of the Lexus, great power, and so much more room than the lexus.

  • excelent - 2003 Kia Sorento
    By -

    I love this korean suv, because it is a really affordable luxury vehicle. Looks like a Lexus, but a half the price. extended warranty is very important

  • So far so good - 2003 Kia Sorento
    By -

    Im very happy with my decision to buy the Sorento. The fit and finish is very Honda-ish, without the price. I did have a power lock relay break the day I picked it up. I believe it was blown before I picked it up though. Either way, my new Sorento spent its first night in the shop. Oh well. I just hope that this is not a premonition of what is to come.

Kia Sorento Reviews By Year:
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