Kia Sorento Summary
In many ways, the Kia Sorento sits comfortably in the middle between sport utility vehicles (SUVs) and compact utility vehicles (CUVs). While it’s not as big as a full-fledged SUV, it offers more roominess and comfort than frequently seen in a CUV. Its super-sized warranty makes the Sorento a value-rich vehicle that is versatile and has a luxurious look and feel in spite of its lean price tag. With all-wheel drive, versatile engine options and plenty of space, the Kia Sorento is a car to consider if you want a vehicle that skillfully balances price, agility and exhilaration.
Kia Sorento Safety
Having a standard 4X4 or all-wheel drive means that the Sorento is competent in different terrains and seasons. Newer models can be customized with the latest safety standards including:
- Advanced Smart Cruise Control, which adjusts speed to the flow of traffic
- Lane Keeping Assist, alerting you when the car drifts from its lane (available from 2016 on the SX Limited trim)
- Blind Spot Detection System, a radar-based system that alerts the driver when it detects objects outside their field of vision (from 2014)
- Driver Attention Alert, which warns you when it detects signs of inattention or fatigue (2019)
Older Sorento models around 2009 are equipped with dual front, side and curtain airbags, anti-lock brakes, and traction and stability control, which helps to keep the car stable in challenging driving conditions.
Kia Sorento Interior
While the Kia Sorento is one of the more economical SUV choices, there is little that is basic in the interior. The control panel and touchscreen are well thought out in terms of placement and design, with large accessible knobs and buttons so the driver can make adjustments and keep their eyes on the road. Hard plastic and wood trims can be customized, and leather trim is an option. Aside from changes to the infotainment console, the interior is similar between generations.
Kia Sorento Technology
Since 2010, Kia’s voice-activated media system UVO controls the vehicle’s infotainment options. Other available tech features are:
- Remote services to start or stop, door lock/unlock, or Find My Car options
- Automatic Collision notification, which sends out an emergency call in the event of an accident, and roadside assistance and emergency assistance, available at the touch of a button 24/7
- Car health and maintenance monitoring
- Voice-activated location-based services
Apple and Android smartphone integration are available from 2017 onward, and in addition to Bluetooth, cabled connections are also present. Some driver-assist technology is only available on more expensive trim packages or models. The earliest Sorentos have a stereo with an in-dash CD player and eight-speaker sound system.
Kia Sorento Space
Feeling more like a wagon than a truck, the Sorento offers passengers in the first two rows plenty of leg and headroom, though legroom in the rear seats can feel a little tight for taller passengers. While it does offer third-row seating, the limited space means that it’s reserved for kids. Some drivers find that cargo space is limited, especially when compared to its peers. When the third-row seat is occupied, expect less than 10 sq. ft. of cargo space in the hold.
Kia Sorento Comfort
The Kia Sorrento is fairly responsive, with customizable all-wheel drive that allows the driver to choose where the power is allocated in conditions where more traction is required. Its suspension is more softly sprung than its peers, which means that potholes are less of a problem. Some drivers have found the Sorento to be noisy on the highway.