I did my research.... _Consumer Reports:_ 5* RELIABILITY. 5* user recommend/loved. 5* crash test. _JD Power_ top rated for quaility. _Intellichoice 5 Year Resale value:_ 55% (same as Audi Q5 & Toyota Camry at 55%--Mercedes is below 48%), though this fact doesn't matter to me as I keep my cars for 10-15years (only sold my '12 VW Sportwagen TDI due to Dieselgate scandal). In a Dec'16 British Auto review magazine (go to B&N) they rated 100 Top SUVs in the world, and the Sorento came in at #4, I believe (Q7 at #3, just so you see the league it's in). I test drove SUVs _repeatedly,_ the Q5 v6, Q5 v4, Mercedes GLC300, Volvo, BMW, Mazda CX-5, Toyota--all top rated researched cars in this category. I felt you're _not_ "giving up" on anything in performance/reliability for an apples-to-apples feature spec price and the fact that it does things BETTER [touch screen infotainment with _TONS_ of 21st century stuff like Apple Carplay/Android link, etc which newly released Mercedes(?!) or Audi models mentioned STILL(?!)_don't_ have but only have that clunky rotary push dial GPS--wtf are they thinking--it's 2017!? My '12 VW even had touch screen!] Take also into account that the steel Kia uses is _stronger and lighter_ than the competition since their parent company is Hyundai (monster conglamorate) that owns Hyundai Steel which sells LOWER grade steel to auto competition all over the world, BUT puts their superior _stronger/lighter/mpg saving_ steel INTO THEIR cars. The front 3 windows have noise dampening acoustic glass, which is only found in very high end cars. Also consider, that the LEAD AUDI designer (Peter Schreyer--responsible in large part for Audi's _HUGE_ success) was brought over years ago to make Kia cars perform/feel inch-for-inch "Germanesque", which the Sorento DEFINITELY(!) is inside & out--look at the angled door sills and tell me that's not an Audi A6 door, LOL! Also look at user reviews in KBB, Edmunds, online car mags, etc--top rated overall user/pro reviews. The case for the Sorento is REALLY compelling. Also, 10 yr/100,000 mile warranty--best in the auto industry. I'm glad I bought this car and got a GOOD discount on it and drives as good as any much higher priced German/Japanese car. The V6 has good(!) pep (& maneuverability) I needed in _overtaking traffic,_ which is _extremely_ important to me considering how Californians drive out here. V6 pep isn't a "desire" but a life/death safety necessity here in CA! LOL. I'm averaging overall 23 mpg (50% in city) on the 2WD v6--not bad...not bad at all considering the car's size & powerful engine! I can feed it CHEAP COSTCO regular gas if I want to (which is recommended over Premium in this model). So bottom line: At least drive it and consider all the wealth of had data research out there that tends be be overwhelmingly all aces for this car on most _any_ metric....A NO-BRAINER for the "open-minded"--and I'm a die-hard German auto fan/multi-ex-owner. But "it is what it is"--a NEW world of contenders that are shoulders with the best, for a MUCH better price....
Agreed. I'm not a huge fan of SUVs or such cars having no use for them, but I had a Sorento for a few months: it is really great. Even tried some mild offroad into swamp roads/beaches (what 99.99% of people would go through IF they would use the offroad capabilities), it does the job. It is a very comfy long range cruiser (on an 8 hours+ drive I felt great). The ACC is "smarter" than what I'm used to in VAG cars (VAG's ACC braking hard if a car on the right is slightly too close to your lane or putting way too much distance in cities allowing people to cut you off). Loaded with options. Only drawbacks: the automatic gearbox isn't as fast as a DSG (however such cars aren't meant to be dynamic machines) and the mileage with diesel engines is slightly below what Germans can do. And of course being a huge car, it takes longer to heat up during winters :-) I think it is hard to beat the Sorento in that segment in terms of value for money. But then again I have no use for such cars.
Fascinating info about stronger but LIGHTER steel! I have the 2017 EX model and absolutely LOVE it. It has almost 80K miles and I drive it 35+ days up to local mountains skiing. I have sat in a snowy, chunky parking lot at the end of the huge snowy day and had to help shovel out heavier Mazda CX-9's (my previous car), Volvo's, etc blocking my path as their AWD wheels spun in the deep chunky snow that has been moved around. unevenly from trucks and other cars getting stuck. It's been a breeze getting out of these spots with my lightweight Kia Sorrento. It handles like a dream and I love driving it on long car trips since I can adjust my power seat to exactly the right height. Driven my daughters to college in SoCal from Seattle more at least 5 round trips--about 1100 miles each way. Just wish I could average more than 22 highway or 18.25/mpg in city.
I took your recommendation and test drove one and was blown away at what a excellent vehicle it is . I picked up a SXL with white leather and graphite exterior coloring. The wife is hard to please and she even loves it so a win win for sure. Thanks a lot for your concise reviews keep it up. We got rid of a 08 MB GL that she did not want to part with which tells you how great the Kia is.
I think that's what they are given to review. From my understanding they don't get to pick and choose what trim level. Although to be honest if I was a reviewer I would probably enjoy testing the top trim level.
i think your properly right, at some point, KIA was just a car, nothing special...some ppl just want a chassis, motor ,wheels, just the basic stuff.get in, start it up and go....no extras..that has changed greatly! .but I love my KIA Serento! It BEAUTIFUL!Its a ROCKET!!!it fly's, its goes where you command it to go and very easy to handle too. i didn't think that i would ever be interested in owning one but once i test drove it a few times and looked into the engineering specs plus looked at all the bells and whistles i that i can get for 1/2 the price of my Range!! I went for it,,,fully loaded, thats the only way to go for me and yes, with everything added, costumed...is about $45,000 it could go as high as 50,000 no kidding, but its worth it, in my opinion. i cant wait to get the 2020 model. GO KIA! PS> DON'T LET THE KIA EMBLEM MAKE YOU FEEL THAT ITS LESS OF A VALUE, BECAUSE ITS NOT!
your so right i went on presidents Day and got the top of the line with incentives , all the bells and Whistles for $47.500, I mean, everything!!!i very,very happy that i did, because, who wants a SUV that Rolls with No Floss...lol. Its Beautiful! and i'm still Rolling in lux and style.
Bought an SX with Advanced Technology package last Thursday. Got a superior deal plus almost retail for my trade. Already 200+ miles and just impressed as can be with this car.
A neighbor just bought a new Sorento, and at first, I thought it was a new Pilot. My wife thought it was a new Highlander. In any case, it is a very nice looking vehicle. I have always liked the Sorento, and seeing this new one made me start to think about it seriously for my next vehicle. Like Chris' wife, mine has a hard time warming up to either Kia or Hyundai, but I really like them. I will be looking in the used car market for mine, but glad to see that Kia has done such a good job with this vehicle. Good review, Chris.
Great Review! The Sorento looks great, but my favorite 3-row crossover is the Mazda CX-9. It just has a very bold and flowing design. The back of the CX-9 can be a little controversial, but I love the styling. Keep up the great work, Chris! -DriveAndBeDriven " The Quest To Record The Best!"
Recently replaced a loaded 2012 Sorento with the 2018 SXL. Have to say that I tried to find an alternative to what was my first KIA but only the Ford Edge Sport came close. The turbo V6 in the Ford was tempting, especially for me, and we very seldom need a third row of seats. Nevertheless, on those rare occasions when more than five passengers is required that emergency third row is a blessing. And since my wife is the primary driver, her affection for the 2012 Sorento carried a lot of weight in the decision. And when her list of complaints about the 2012 model were literally all eliminated in the 2018 version, it was an easy choice. We also considered the Mazda CX9, having owned four Mazda's over the years. But from a utility standpoint the only clear advantage was the slightly better gas mileage of the Turbo4. The CX9 is much, much larger on the outside with virtually no greater interior space. Not an advantage from our point of view. Mazdas do handle well, but having a vehicle almost a foot longer than the Sorento with 250 lbs more weight and a less powerful engine just doesn't make sense, at least to me. The VW Atlas was another contender. (I drive a GTI.) But again, in addition to being larger than we need or want, the Atlas was at least $8,000 more than we paid for the Sorento and did not include navigation on any but the most expensive trim level. Adding insult to injury, that trim level was not available within 500 miles of our home. The new Tiguan might have been a contender but the only available engine is utterly gutless and in a 7 passenger version suitable only for Black Forest gnomes. So there it is. Taking into account the almost universal praise for the current generation of the Sorento and our own excellent experience over nearly 80K miles on our 2012 (virtually NO problems. Period), we went back to the KIA. And frankly, we love it.
My father just bought SX. We didn't expect much but it really was nice surprise to see the quality and drivability. Also, in my father's opinion, it was far better choice than Acura RDX or Lexus NX or Toyota Highlander.
I love my KIA Serento! Its a ROCKET!!!it fly's, its goes where you command it to go and very easy to handle too. i didn't think that i would ever be interested in owning one but once i test drove it a few times and looked into the engineering specs plus looked at all the bells and whistles i that i can get for 1/2 the price of my Range!! I went for it,,,fully loaded, thats the only way to go for me and yes, with everything added, costumed...is about $45,000 no kidding, but its worth it, in my opinion. i cant wait to get the 2020 model. GO KIA! PS> DON'T LET THE KIA EMBLEM MAKE YOU FEEL THAT ITS LESS OF A VALUE, BECAUSE ITS NOT!
Great review! The badge and my wife too - can't budge her but now the cargo is a consideration. Lots of + though. Informed decision ahead, or emotive (still)
does anyone know if the sorento offers a tow pkg and if so, what comes with it. looking for a 2016 but don't know if i need it to find one with a factory pkg or if i can add one later. thanks
Hi I was wondering about the road to vegas, I enjoy staying at tropicana with my family and friends, but my question is how was the ride over there? and did it perform better than you predicted ?
I bought a used 2.2 diesel version of the sorento - 2011 model here in the UK. The car as standard is 194 bhp, I have had it remapped up to 215 bhp in turn raising the torque to - 342 lb/ft. This helps with overtaking and the fuel economy ( a little) seems to be averaging 30 mpg, this goes up ever so slightly in the warmer months. I disagree with the comments about the 3rd row seating, we hav had 6 adults and 1 child in our car with 2 adults in the 3rd row. Although its not huge there is room on shorter journeys. Overall, great family car and once you are moving has quite a lot of pulling power.
As usual another very informative car review. I liked the size of the 2015 version, this one is 6 inches longer. What do you think of residual value after 5 years versus the Highlander? That's always in the back of my mind. Thank You!
I have it for 7 month, driving about 1K miles in a month - it's being smooth and quiet as you would expect. In terms of competition with V6. It has light turbo lag but I test drove couple V6 cars from early/mid 2000's and this Sorento is definitely quicker and responsive on throttle. This 4 cylinder turbo engine is a Win, Win in my opinion.
Chris. The Kia Sorento EX V6 AWD with Premium and Technology Package is about the same price as a Subaru Outback 3.6R with Eyesight. They price out almost identically on TrueCar. Tough call. I think your wife is going to make you get the Acura MDX. Gorgeous SUV the Acura is. I saw a new one today, but pricey. I think I would get the Subaru Outback. If you don't need to 3rd row of seats, its a pretty good deal and will hold it's value better than the Kia. On the Sorento, I would get the EX V6 AWD. I don't like the plastic on the top of the steering wheel on the SX Trim.
My wife and I tried not to like the Kia Sorento. She had a pilot and we were going to buy the highlander but we both liked the Kia better. Acura reliability is way down and their 9 speed and infotainment system is a mess. I have owned German stuff and love them except had nightmare reliability. I can afford anything and I bought the Kia. My wife looked also at the RX350 but could not deal with the racer boy lines and the hideous nose. My daughter has the Mercedes ML 350 and this car is much easier to use. In her car you have to turn the radio on or the back up camera does not work. What is that about? Also, the transmission shifter can easily be mistaken for the wipers. I got $4,000 off the top of the line Kia Sorento. Minor things my wife does not like but they are things like when in reverse the clock disappears and the rear camera takes up the screen. Great power and easy to drive. We have a 2017 Sorento that we have had for about 3 months. As far as the Kia badge, my wife likes to be stealth and under the radar so perfect for her.
William Fogarty very helpful review. I'm in a very similar situation, in that I can afford anything I want, though don't want nor need the headaches of maintaining German competitors. We also own a Pilot, though I've had it with Honda road noise...also considered the Highlander and Lexus, though NO CarPlay?! Once I got over the badge snob aspect, this car was our choice.
I love my Sorento it drives like a dream and I can get 31mpg out it as well. I don't care about the third row because I never will use it any way and for the price it comes fully loaded as where you would have to pay more to get what it has. Oh and Hyundai/Kia are the number 5 too automaker beating Honda look it up
I just bought a 2017 Kia sorento, its a beautiful car but I noticed that my ears pop a lot when I ride it, anyone else with this problem. I would appreciate any feedback. Thanks
Lu Zermeño pressure in the cabin vs outside pressure I would think. Ears are adjusting or maybe a certain sound frequency you’re sensitive too. I get that rolling only back windows down or someone crumpling plastic 👍🏻
Buy one used now they are cheap due to the exploding engines and faulty fuel rails that also add to the Kia experience of a vehicle fire. Make sure you practice getting the kids out of the vehicle fast in case of fire.
If you are paying 46k why don't you consider Volvo XC90 T5? or something similar not that Sorento is worse in sense of tech and luxury, its just not as economical at 46k.
I don't think Volvo is any better than Kia now....Volvo isn't BMW...it's one of European cars that doesn't stick out in any sense especially after Chinese acquired it....check the long term reliability....Kia is among the best....Volvo was considered the safest car back in 90's but just about every single company makes as safe car as Volvo now....so there's no real strength in Volvo anymore
The Volvo will cost a lot more when you add all the additional features. Can't compare a fully loaded Sorento to an base XC90. Big mistake. The same features in a luxury brand is 57K and up. You can buy 2 Sorento LX compared to a single XC90 based on your logic.
Volvo's reliability is far below Kia. It is more expensive to maintain, is no longer any safer, has a worse warranty, feels no more luxurious in comparison to Kia's SXL-V6 trim. Kia with heated and air conditioned seats, Napa leather, etc etc, is a better car and a better value. My Kia is never in the shop and my friend and sisters Volvo constantly is. Read Consumer Reports.
Ivan Vojt We must not have watched the same AoA video - he called it 2016's best crossover at that point in the year, gave the handling a B+ and the ride an A
The video you're talking about rated the ride and handling well. Consumer Reports which is the best of all reviewers and the least to review based on advertisers, IE it doesn't accept any, rates it the "king" of SUV's. Also the ride quality as excellent. I have a SXL-V6 Limited and it far surpasses the vehicle I traded in for it, a Range Rover Evoque.
Looks ok inside, but the outside is dull. The US model here looks better than the ones made in Korea for Europe and elsewhere though. The rear bumper treatment and body coloured lower trims etc...is much better but not enough. They should have used some of the design language of the Sportage.
I just searched for TWO SECONDS and found a 2016 Acura MDX with 8,000 miles on it, *CERTIFIED,* for $46k, about 5 minutes away form me. You'd be *insane* to pay this for a KIA. The car itself is nice, but the depreciation, and the KIA nameplate for $46k? No way. Acura quality is too good to pass up if you;re going to pay this much. Obviously, you could even do better than this in the Used or Certified market for $30k, easily.
I agree, you would be crazy to pay 46K for it. The reality is Kia dealers let go on their cars for WAY LESS than the MSRP. Don't listen to what auto journalists say about car prices. Honda/Toyota dealers tends to stick closer to the MSRP of the vehicle where as Kia/Hyundai give you huge discount to make that sale.This summer I went to a Toyota dealer and they really couldn't go below $54,000 (all in price - Canadian) for a 2016 Highlander XLE V6 AWD. I went to Kia dealer and they were willing to let go of a similarly equipped 2016 Kia Sorento EX V6 AWD for $36,500 taxes in (that price is like getting a loaded CRV or RAV4). Since I am in Canada, the CHEAPEST new 2016 Acura MDX Base was $65000 taxes in (certified used ones are 50000 taxes in). That is WAY more than the Kia Sorento so I didn't even compare the vehicles while shopping. If I was in the US would I try to get certified MDX? You bet I would.
Excellent points. Man, those Highlanders are really nice, but SO expensive, and I bet you're right- they are not going to lower the price on those. Their sales numbers are too good for them to cut the prices.
It depends what you want. The updated powertrain and additional cargo space of the Highlander are nice, but I find the Sorento a better value and more up-to-date with features/electronics. I also prefer the tighter outside dimensions. But, both cars are good, just a matter of what is more important to the buyer/driver.
Mojogasm Toyota wouldn't put that thing on the highlander and sienna if it will compromise reliability and as a guy who used to recondition vehicles in a used car department I see a lot of this kia sorento from 2012 and up in our lot because guess what? Transmissions transmissions.
I used to think like that too until my dads 2013 Camry's transmission went at 100K. The truth is no one can be sure of reliability until you try it out in real life.The new 8 speed is super new...very few vehicles had it..I think in some big Lexus (low volume too). We will see what the 8 speed is like with the highlander cause it will sell way more. Honda did not fair well with the Pilot's new transmission either.
What’s wrong it’s you people okay fine go get a luxury vehicle who cares. Just because it has the “Kia badge” it has to be cheap. Who came up with making us humans think kias have to be cheap I mean cmon,so I guess sense it’s a Kia I’d rather get a 50,000 dollar suv, that suv is a Kia. So you’d pay that much for a Mercedes Benz even though you want a Sorento the Sorento so much even though you get a car that’s way more then the Sorento what so ever.
I bought a 2017 Sorento EX AWD V6. and the engine died in less than a month and only 485 miles. Kia replaced it with a 2016 re-manufactured engine. Now I am the proud owner of $35,000 SUV that is worth next to nothing after one month.
@tom jones...That was my first question, why a reman? They said according to the warranty they do not have to give me a "new" engine. They said the reman will carry the same warranty. I don't care what they say because the carfax will show that the engine was replaced so I've lost a great deal of value.
I don't know about others. But I do not think engine replacement is a bad thing for used car shoppers. I wouldn't talk the price down for that for sure.
Kia. No thank you - The interior is not a 'treat for the eye' unless you like circa 2008 styling; it's utilitarian. And the body looks as bland and cheap as you would expect.
I did my research.... _Consumer Reports:_ 5* RELIABILITY. 5* user recommend/loved. 5* crash test. _JD Power_ top rated for quaility. _Intellichoice 5 Year Resale value:_ 55% (same as Audi Q5 & Toyota Camry at 55%--Mercedes is below 48%), though this fact doesn't matter to me as I keep my cars for 10-15years (only sold my '12 VW Sportwagen TDI due to Dieselgate scandal). In a Dec'16 British Auto review magazine (go to B&N) they rated 100 Top SUVs in the world, and the Sorento came in at #4, I believe (Q7 at #3, just so you see the league it's in). I test drove SUVs _repeatedly,_ the Q5 v6, Q5 v4, Mercedes GLC300, Volvo, BMW, Mazda CX-5, Toyota--all top rated researched cars in this category. I felt you're _not_ "giving up" on anything in performance/reliability for an apples-to-apples feature spec price and the fact that it does things BETTER [touch screen infotainment with _TONS_ of 21st century stuff like Apple Carplay/Android link, etc which newly released Mercedes(?!) or Audi models mentioned STILL(?!)_don't_ have but only have that clunky rotary push dial GPS--wtf are they thinking--it's 2017!? My '12 VW even had touch screen!] Take also into account that the steel Kia uses is _stronger and lighter_ than the competition since their parent company is Hyundai (monster conglamorate) that owns Hyundai Steel which sells LOWER grade steel to auto competition all over the world, BUT puts their superior _stronger/lighter/mpg saving_ steel INTO THEIR cars. The front 3 windows have noise dampening acoustic glass, which is only found in very high end cars. Also consider, that the LEAD AUDI designer (Peter Schreyer--responsible in large part for Audi's _HUGE_ success) was brought over years ago to make Kia cars perform/feel inch-for-inch "Germanesque", which the Sorento DEFINITELY(!) is inside & out--look at the angled door sills and tell me that's not an Audi A6 door, LOL! Also look at user reviews in KBB, Edmunds, online car mags, etc--top rated overall user/pro reviews. The case for the Sorento is REALLY compelling. Also, 10 yr/100,000 mile warranty--best in the auto industry. I'm glad I bought this car and got a GOOD discount on it and drives as good as any much higher priced German/Japanese car. The V6 has good(!) pep (& maneuverability) I needed in _overtaking traffic,_ which is _extremely_ important to me considering how Californians drive out here. V6 pep isn't a "desire" but a life/death safety necessity here in CA! LOL. I'm averaging overall 23 mpg (50% in city) on the 2WD v6--not bad...not bad at all considering the car's size & powerful engine! I can feed it CHEAP COSTCO regular gas if I want to (which is recommended over Premium in this model). So bottom line: At least drive it and consider all the wealth of had data research out there that tends be be overwhelmingly all aces for this car on most _any_ metric....A NO-BRAINER for the "open-minded"--and I'm a die-hard German auto fan/multi-ex-owner. But "it is what it is"--a NEW world of contenders that are shoulders with the best, for a MUCH better price....
Theee Chosen One helpful post!
Agreed. I'm not a huge fan of SUVs or such cars having no use for them, but I had a Sorento for a few months: it is really great.
Even tried some mild offroad into swamp roads/beaches (what 99.99% of people would go through IF they would use the offroad capabilities), it does the job.
It is a very comfy long range cruiser (on an 8 hours+ drive I felt great).
The ACC is "smarter" than what I'm used to in VAG cars (VAG's ACC braking hard if a car on the right is slightly too close to your lane or putting way too much distance in cities allowing people to cut you off).
Loaded with options.
Only drawbacks: the automatic gearbox isn't as fast as a DSG (however such cars aren't meant to be dynamic machines) and the mileage with diesel engines is slightly below what Germans can do.
And of course being a huge car, it takes longer to heat up during winters :-)
I think it is hard to beat the Sorento in that segment in terms of value for money.
But then again I have no use for such cars.
Theee Chosen One i
Commenting to save thanks
Fascinating info about stronger but LIGHTER steel! I have the 2017 EX model and absolutely LOVE it. It has almost 80K miles and I drive it 35+ days up to local mountains skiing. I have sat in a snowy, chunky parking lot at the end of the huge snowy day and had to help shovel out heavier Mazda CX-9's (my previous car), Volvo's, etc blocking my path as their AWD wheels spun in the deep chunky snow that has been moved around. unevenly from trucks and other cars getting stuck. It's been a breeze getting out of these spots with my lightweight Kia Sorrento. It handles like a dream and I love driving it on long car trips since I can adjust my power seat to exactly the right height. Driven my daughters to college in SoCal from Seattle more at least 5 round trips--about 1100 miles each way. Just wish I could average more than 22 highway or 18.25/mpg in city.
I took your recommendation and test drove one and was blown away at what a excellent vehicle it is . I picked up a SXL with white leather and graphite exterior coloring. The wife is hard to please and she even loves it so a win win for sure. Thanks a lot for your concise reviews keep it up. We got rid of a 08 MB GL that she did not want to part with which tells you how great the Kia is.
I BOUGHT 2016 KIA SORENTO ? BEFORE SORENTO I HAD TOYOTA HIGHLENDER AND TO BE HONEST KIA - SORENTO IS MACH BETTER ?
why do car reviewers always use the fully loaded trims for their review. when people think Kia they are not spending $45k on it
I think that's what they are given to review. From my understanding they don't get to pick and choose what trim level. Although to be honest if I was a reviewer I would probably enjoy testing the top trim level.
Kia sells tons of these in SX and SX-L trim. And Kia's get much more expensive than $45K.
Rath K I’m spending as much money as I want on my suv honey boo boo child
i think your properly right, at some point, KIA was just a car, nothing special...some ppl just want a chassis, motor ,wheels, just the basic stuff.get in, start it up and go....no extras..that has changed greatly! .but I love my KIA Serento! It BEAUTIFUL!Its a ROCKET!!!it fly's, its goes where you command it to go and very easy to handle too. i didn't think that i would ever be interested in owning one but once i test drove it a few times and looked into the engineering specs plus looked at all the bells and whistles i that i can get for 1/2 the price of my Range!! I went for it,,,fully loaded, thats the only way to go for me and yes, with everything added, costumed...is about $45,000 it could go as high as 50,000 no kidding, but its worth it, in my opinion. i cant wait to get the 2020 model. GO KIA! PS> DON'T LET THE KIA EMBLEM MAKE YOU FEEL THAT ITS LESS OF A VALUE, BECAUSE ITS NOT!
your so right i went on presidents Day and got the top of the line with incentives , all the bells and Whistles for $47.500, I mean, everything!!!i very,very happy that i did, because, who wants a SUV that Rolls with No Floss...lol. Its Beautiful! and i'm still Rolling in lux and style.
got my stripped down 2015 with 15000 miles for 20k. I'm loving it.
That bit about his wife being “turned off by the Kia badge” was..something.
Chaney Uffelman A damn turnoff. That’s what it was lol...
Bought an SX with Advanced Technology package last Thursday. Got a superior deal plus almost retail for my trade. Already 200+ miles and just impressed as can be with this car.
A neighbor just bought a new Sorento, and at first, I thought it was a new Pilot. My wife thought it was a new Highlander. In any case, it is a very nice looking vehicle. I have always liked the Sorento, and seeing this new one made me start to think about it seriously for my next vehicle. Like Chris' wife, mine has a hard time warming up to either Kia or Hyundai, but I really like them. I will be looking in the used car market for mine, but glad to see that Kia has done such a good job with this vehicle. Good review, Chris.
I am still waiting to pick up my Sorento. I went with the Diesel 2.2 Turbo. Good low end torgue and it pulls really well.
Great Review! The Sorento looks great, but my favorite 3-row crossover is the Mazda CX-9. It just has a very bold and flowing design. The back of the CX-9 can be a little controversial, but I love the styling. Keep up the great work, Chris!
-DriveAndBeDriven
" The Quest To Record The Best!"
Recently replaced a loaded 2012 Sorento with the 2018 SXL. Have to say that I tried to find an alternative to what was my first KIA but only the Ford Edge Sport came close. The turbo V6 in the Ford was tempting, especially for me, and we very seldom need a third row of seats. Nevertheless, on those rare occasions when more than five passengers is required that emergency third row is a blessing. And since my wife is the primary driver, her affection for the 2012 Sorento carried a lot of weight in the decision. And when her list of complaints about the 2012 model were literally all eliminated in the 2018 version, it was an easy choice.
We also considered the Mazda CX9, having owned four Mazda's over the years. But from a utility standpoint the only clear advantage was the slightly better gas mileage of the Turbo4. The CX9 is much, much larger on the outside with virtually no greater interior space. Not an advantage from our point of view. Mazdas do handle well, but having a vehicle almost a foot longer than the Sorento with 250 lbs more weight and a less powerful engine just doesn't make sense, at least to me.
The VW Atlas was another contender. (I drive a GTI.) But again, in addition to being larger than we need or want, the Atlas was at least $8,000 more than we paid for the Sorento and did not include navigation on any but the most expensive trim level. Adding insult to injury, that trim level was not available within 500 miles of our home. The new Tiguan might have been a contender but the only available engine is utterly gutless and in a 7 passenger version suitable only for Black Forest gnomes.
So there it is. Taking into account the almost universal praise for the current generation of the Sorento and our own excellent experience over nearly 80K miles on our 2012 (virtually NO problems. Period), we went back to the KIA. And frankly, we love it.
Perfect Review !
I just got the 2017 Kia Sorento ex turbo I really like it
My father just bought SX. We didn't expect much but it really was nice surprise to see the quality and drivability. Also, in my father's opinion, it was far better choice than Acura RDX or Lexus NX or Toyota Highlander.
I love my KIA Serento! Its a ROCKET!!!it fly's, its goes where you command it to go and very easy to handle too. i didn't think that i would ever be interested in owning one but once i test drove it a few times and looked into the engineering specs plus looked at all the bells and whistles i that i can get for 1/2 the price of my Range!! I went for it,,,fully loaded, thats the only way to go for me and yes, with everything added, costumed...is about $45,000 no kidding, but its worth it, in my opinion. i cant wait to get the 2020 model. GO KIA! PS> DON'T LET THE KIA EMBLEM MAKE YOU FEEL THAT ITS LESS OF A VALUE, BECAUSE ITS NOT!
I can't wait to get the 2030 model
Just bought a used 2018 Ex V6 and coming from a 2016 Didge Charger im loving it. The power is surprisingly fairly comparable
I have the 2017 kia sorento ex n I love it
Great review!
The badge and my wife too - can't budge her but now the cargo is a consideration. Lots of + though. Informed decision ahead, or emotive (still)
does anyone know if the sorento offers a tow pkg and if so, what comes with it. looking for a 2016 but don't know if i need it to find one with a factory pkg or if i can add one later. thanks
This car has serious torque for a midsize. Just rented it for a trip to Vegas and it pullsssssssss
Hi I was wondering about the road to vegas, I enjoy staying at tropicana with my family and friends, but my question is how was the ride over there? and did it perform better than you predicted ?
Awesome 😀 😀 2017 Kia Sorento review .
I bought a used 2.2 diesel version of the sorento - 2011 model here in the UK. The car as standard is 194 bhp, I have had it remapped up to 215 bhp in turn raising the torque to - 342 lb/ft. This helps with overtaking and the fuel economy ( a little) seems to be averaging 30 mpg, this goes up ever so slightly in the warmer months. I disagree with the comments about the 3rd row seating, we hav had 6 adults and 1 child in our car with 2 adults in the 3rd row. Although its not huge there is room on shorter journeys. Overall, great family car and once you are moving has quite a lot of pulling power.
Looks good
awresome review...this guy knows his cars
Hmmm... Your favorite? Better than the Edge? Just curious...
Did you film on Ortega hwy?
As usual another very informative car review. I liked the size of the 2015 version, this one is 6 inches longer. What do you think of residual value after 5 years versus the Highlander? That's always in the back of my mind. Thank You!
Residual value, Highlander by a mile
I have a Kia Sorento 2012 and it is the best car to date. I have owned many cars.
I’m strongly considering the 2016-2020 Sorento SX or SXL/ Limited
Good day I need a more up to date review of owners
Should I get a 2017 one used in 2022
I own 2016 SXL-T 2.0 right now, best car I ever had use it mainly for work and commute.
Leo Braverman how is the turbo for long term vs a V6?
I have it for 7 month, driving about 1K miles in a month - it's being smooth and quiet as you would expect.
In terms of competition with V6. It has light turbo lag but I test drove couple V6 cars from early/mid 2000's and this Sorento is definitely quicker and responsive on throttle. This 4 cylinder turbo engine is a Win, Win in my opinion.
im looking at a 2017 Kia Sorento LX FWD for 12k.. 50k miles.. its really nice.. im thinking its my next car
Just got a 2017 Yesterday ! Just under 32,000 miles
0:50 “Now before you clutch your chest in horror”😂😂😂😂I burst out laughing
Arguable the the best looking SUV in the market.
Chris. The Kia Sorento EX V6 AWD with Premium and Technology Package is about the same price as a Subaru Outback 3.6R with Eyesight. They price out almost identically on TrueCar. Tough call. I think your wife is going to make you get the Acura MDX. Gorgeous SUV the Acura is. I saw a new one today, but pricey. I think I would get the Subaru Outback. If you don't need to 3rd row of seats, its a pretty good deal and will hold it's value better than the Kia. On the Sorento, I would get the EX V6 AWD. I don't like the plastic on the top of the steering wheel on the SX Trim.
My wife and I tried not to like the Kia Sorento. She had a pilot and we were going to buy the highlander but we both liked the Kia better. Acura reliability is way down and their 9 speed and infotainment system is a mess. I have owned German stuff and love them except had nightmare reliability. I can afford anything and I bought the Kia. My wife looked also at the RX350 but could not deal with the racer boy lines and the hideous nose. My daughter has the Mercedes ML 350 and this car is much easier to use. In her car you have to turn the radio on or the back up camera does not work. What is that about? Also, the transmission shifter can easily be mistaken for the wipers. I got $4,000 off the top of the line Kia Sorento. Minor things my wife does not like but they are things like when in reverse the clock disappears and the rear camera takes up the screen. Great power and easy to drive. We have a 2017 Sorento that we have had for about 3 months. As far as the Kia badge, my wife likes to be stealth and under the radar so perfect for her.
William Fogarty very helpful review. I'm in a very similar situation, in that I can afford anything I want, though don't want nor need the headaches of maintaining German competitors. We also own a Pilot, though I've had it with Honda road noise...also considered the Highlander and Lexus, though NO CarPlay?!
Once I got over the badge snob aspect, this car was our choice.
Superb, when I get my #Sorento I'm going to plasti dip the emblems aha.
Just search "How To Plasti Dip Emblems/Badges on Your Car".
I love my Sorento it drives like a dream and I can get 31mpg out it as well. I don't care about the third row because I never will use it any way and for the price it comes fully loaded as where you would have to pay more to get what it has. Oh and Hyundai/Kia are the number 5 too automaker beating Honda look it up
I'd buy this but as certified used.
TheMichaelRN
Does the Kia Sorento come with only 5 passenger seating? I do not want a 7 passenger.
@dsblack6 Yes - the EX, EX AWD, and L trims only seat 5 passengers.
I just bought a 2017 Kia sorento, its a beautiful car but I noticed that my ears pop a lot when I ride it, anyone else with this problem. I would appreciate any feedback. Thanks
Lu Zermeño pressure in the cabin vs outside pressure I would think. Ears are adjusting or maybe a certain sound frequency you’re sensitive too. I get that rolling only back windows down or someone crumpling plastic 👍🏻
if it was flexfuel it be a winner
Buy one used now they are cheap due to the exploding engines and faulty fuel rails that also add to the Kia experience of a vehicle fire. Make sure you practice getting the kids out of the vehicle fast in case of fire.
If you are paying 46k why don't you consider Volvo XC90 T5? or something similar not that Sorento is worse in sense of tech and luxury, its just not as economical at 46k.
I don't think Volvo is any better than Kia now....Volvo isn't BMW...it's one of European cars that doesn't stick out in any sense especially after Chinese acquired it....check the long term reliability....Kia is among the best....Volvo was considered the safest car back in 90's but just about every single company makes as safe car as Volvo now....so there's no real strength in Volvo anymore
The Volvo will cost a lot more when you add all the additional features. Can't compare a fully loaded Sorento to an base XC90. Big mistake. The same features in a luxury brand is 57K and up. You can buy 2 Sorento LX compared to a single XC90 based on your logic.
Volvo's reliability is far below Kia. It is more expensive to maintain, is no longer any safer, has a worse warranty, feels no more luxurious in comparison to Kia's SXL-V6 trim. Kia with heated and air conditioned seats, Napa leather, etc etc, is a better car and a better value. My Kia is never in the shop and my friend and sisters Volvo constantly is. Read Consumer Reports.
Motorweek & Alex on Autos didn't have kind words regarding the ride quality. Not being able to get into the 3rd row via the drivers side sucks.
Ivan Vojt We must not have watched the same AoA video - he called it 2016's best crossover at that point in the year, gave the handling a B+ and the ride an A
The video you're talking about rated the ride and handling well. Consumer Reports which is the best of all reviewers and the least to review based on advertisers, IE it doesn't accept any, rates it the "king" of SUV's. Also the ride quality as excellent. I have a SXL-V6 Limited and it far surpasses the vehicle I traded in for it, a Range Rover Evoque.
Right on. The Sorento is a great vehicle with a good warranty as part of the package. We like our 2016 EX V6 a lot.
Looks ok inside, but the outside is dull. The US model here looks better than the ones made in Korea for Europe and elsewhere though. The rear bumper treatment and body coloured lower trims etc...is much better but not enough. They should have used some of the design language of the Sportage.
I like the dull looks compared to the comic book disasters the other manufacturers are offering.
I just searched for TWO SECONDS and found a 2016 Acura MDX with 8,000 miles on it, *CERTIFIED,* for $46k, about 5 minutes away form me. You'd be *insane* to pay this for a KIA. The car itself is nice, but the depreciation, and the KIA nameplate for $46k? No way. Acura quality is too good to pass up if you;re going to pay this much. Obviously, you could even do better than this in the Used or Certified market for $30k, easily.
I agree, you would be crazy to pay 46K for it. The reality is Kia dealers let go on their cars for WAY LESS than the MSRP. Don't listen to what auto journalists say about car prices. Honda/Toyota dealers tends to stick closer to the MSRP of the vehicle where as Kia/Hyundai give you huge discount to make that sale.This summer I went to a Toyota dealer and they really couldn't go below $54,000 (all in price - Canadian) for a 2016 Highlander XLE V6 AWD. I went to Kia dealer and they were willing to let go of a similarly equipped 2016 Kia Sorento EX V6 AWD for $36,500 taxes in (that price is like getting a loaded CRV or RAV4). Since I am in Canada, the CHEAPEST new 2016 Acura MDX Base was $65000 taxes in (certified used ones are 50000 taxes in). That is WAY more than the Kia Sorento so I didn't even compare the vehicles while shopping. If I was in the US would I try to get certified MDX? You bet I would.
Excellent points. Man, those Highlanders are really nice, but SO expensive, and I bet you're right- they are not going to lower the price on those. Their sales numbers are too good for them to cut the prices.
I was looking at a 16 Honda Pilot Touring. Talk about pricy 60k taxes in! Very nice ride though. Hard to find a used one.
Fantastic vehicle but no way buy it new. Bought my 2016 sxl awd with 50k or $24
Is car gurus legit for finding good deals on cars near where we live ?
WTH is wrong with the Kia badge?
I like the Sorento but I would probably pick the toyota highlander specially that the 2017 has an 8 speed automatic.
It depends what you want. The updated powertrain and additional cargo space of the Highlander are nice, but I find the Sorento a better value and more up-to-date with features/electronics. I also prefer the tighter outside dimensions. But, both cars are good, just a matter of what is more important to the buyer/driver.
Bosco Gong Oh kia has more features for sure but when I test drove both I just feel like the 17 highlander had more refinement driving wise.
Wait and see how that transmission works because its brand new. Other can manufacturers that used 8 speeds are not fairing well with reliability.
Mojogasm Toyota wouldn't put that thing on the highlander and sienna if it will compromise reliability and as a guy who used to recondition vehicles in a used car department I see a lot of this kia sorento from 2012 and up in our lot because guess what? Transmissions transmissions.
I used to think like that too until my dads 2013 Camry's transmission went at 100K. The truth is no one can be sure of reliability until you try it out in real life.The new 8 speed is super new...very few vehicles had it..I think in some big Lexus (low volume too). We will see what the 8 speed is like with the highlander cause it will sell way more. Honda did not fair well with the Pilot's new transmission either.
If there was 360 degree camera and auto parking would better ....!!
jomcy jose there is a 360 camera
What’s wrong it’s you people okay fine go get a luxury vehicle who cares. Just because it has the “Kia badge” it has to be cheap. Who came up with making us humans think kias have to be cheap I mean cmon,so I guess sense it’s a Kia I’d rather get a 50,000 dollar suv, that suv is a Kia. So you’d pay that much for a Mercedes Benz even though you want a Sorento the Sorento so much even though you get a car that’s way more then the Sorento what so ever.
I bought a 2017 Sorento EX AWD V6. and the engine died in less than a month and only 485 miles. Kia replaced it with a 2016 re-manufactured engine. Now I am the proud owner of $35,000 SUV that is worth next to nothing after one month.
Nobody believes you troll...
@tom jones...That was my first question, why a reman? They said according to the warranty they do not have to give me a "new" engine. They said the reman will carry the same warranty. I don't care what they say because the carfax will show that the engine was replaced so I've lost a great deal of value.
I don't know about others. But I do not think engine replacement is a bad thing for used car shoppers. I wouldn't talk the price down for that for sure.
Then let your wife choose!
50 k for a kia. Aint happening.
He lost me at 47k
Lp
the 2016 murano beats the Kia hands down. just compare interiors.
Timothy Tamez that mostly subjective but Nissan isn't even in the 10 most reliable vehicles.
Sounds like your wife needs to learn about what's important in life.
Nice vehicle but for 46,000? I rather buy a mazda cx9. Much better in every way and not a kia badge.
Another pretentious wife. Get rid of her. Lol
awful review have no idea what you reviewed no information here.
KIM JONG UN APPROVES, USA 0 KOREA 1
Kia. No thank you - The interior is not a 'treat for the eye' unless you like circa 2008 styling; it's utilitarian. And the body looks as bland and cheap as you would expect.
are you comparing it to your skateboard jr.,?