Skip advert
Advertisement

Kia Sorento (2003-2009) review

Kia might not immediately spring to mind when it comes to looking for a 4x4, but with the Sorento the Korean firm hopes to repeat the success it's had in the MPV market with its Sedona.

Kia Sorento
Overall Auto Express rating

2.0

How we review cars
RRP
£41,995 £51,295
Avg. savings
£2,987 off RRP*

Kia might not immediately spring to mind when it comes to looking for a 4x4, but with the Sorento the Korean firm hopes to repeat the success it's had in the MPV market with its Sedona. In typical style the Sedona is priced in a category below its size, which means you get a lot of 4x4 for your money. It's not bad looking either, with more than a hint of the Lexus RX300 about its styling. The smart exterior lines are complemented by an interior that is a vast improvement over Kia model's of old. All apart from the tacky wooden trim that is, but that aside it's pleasant enough, and, rather unsurprisingly, very well equipped too.

Power comes from either a 2.5-litre common-rail turbodiesel or a 3.5-litre V6. By far the most important engine in the UK is the diesel - it's expected to account for around 90% of sales. Noisy when cold, on the move once it's warmed up, it proves more refined, offering pace at odds with the quoted 14.3 second 0-62mph time. The gear lever travels quite some distance across the gate, but it's precise enough to not bother ticking the expensive option box for the automatic. On the road the Sorento resists roll well, but it's at the expense of some ride comfort, bigger ridges and road bumps transmitted through to the cabin, upsetting its composure. Great value, spacious and well equipped, the Sorento is sure to be attractive for those wanting big SUV looks, style and space, for half the cost of premium rivals.

Engines, performance and drive

MPG, CO2 and Running Costs

Interior, design and technology

Practicality, comfort and boot space

Reliability and Safety

Skip advert
Advertisement

Which Is Best

Cheapest

  • Name
    2.2 CRDi 2 5dr DCT
  • Gearbox type
    Semi-auto
  • RRP
    £41,995

Most Economical

  • Name
    2.2 CRDi 2 5dr DCT
  • Gearbox type
    Semi-auto
  • RRP
    £41,995

Fastest

  • Name
    2.2 CRDi 2 5dr DCT
  • Gearbox type
    Semi-auto
  • RRP
    £41,995
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

New Ford Fiesta: latest details on supermini’s potential return
Ford Fiesta exclusive image

New Ford Fiesta: latest details on supermini’s potential return

The Ford Fiesta could be coming back as an electric car, and here’s everything we know so far
News
20 May 2025
Flawed hybrid car efficiency data to stifle UK EV sales and propagate pollution
Connecting charger to Hyundai Tucson PHEV

Flawed hybrid car efficiency data to stifle UK EV sales and propagate pollution

Half a million extra PHEVs could reach UK roads by 2030 in place of cleaner EVs due to changes surrounding the ZEV Mandate
News
19 May 2025
Kia is returning to its 'Keeping It Affordable' roots
Opinion - Kia

Kia is returning to its 'Keeping It Affordable' roots

Mike Rutherford thinks new cars are simply too expensive, but some manufacturers are starting to do something about it
Opinion
19 May 2025