Along with a roomy interior, the 2022 Kia Sorento is also loaded with sophisticated features, some of which include: electric liftgate that is hands-free. Front seats with heating and ventilation. 2nd row heated seats.
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Are the seats of the 2021 Kia Sorento ventilated?
The cabin of the 2021 Kia Sorento features more than simply sizable screens. The cheapest three-row car made by Kia will be updated for 2021, and like pretty much every other vehicle that has undergone a redesign, the new Sorento welcomes more screen space. Great! But could the 2021 Sorento work if you’re searching for a three-row SUV (or even a two-row midsize SUV), or should you stick with the full-size but fantastic Telluride SUV? Check out our whole evaluation before continuing to learn about the interior highlights of the two Sorento SUV models we recently drove: the 2021 Sorento SX Prestige and the 2021 Sorento X-Line.
Kia Sorento: Third-Row Space
You won’t have to wait long. Here are some things you should know if the Sorento catches your eye because it offers three rows of seating for the same price as a two-row midsize SUV. Models with the base engine have a second row with three seats crosswise and a total of seven seats. If you choose the more expensive trims (or the hybrid), you will receive two captain’s chairs and six seats in all.
The latter configuration was included in both of the vehicles we tested, and we value how practical the easily adjusted captain’s chairs are (complete with tiny netted phone holders). A large lever located behind your thigh allows you to change the backrest’s angle, and a bar under the seat’s front lifts to allow you to move the seat forward and backward. Additionally, we value how conveniently placed second-row USB ports are midway up the backs of the front seats.
If you genuinely intend to transport passengers in the far-back seats, you should shift those second-row seats forward. Legroom is not the problem; it is limited but usable in the third row. The height of the floor there is more important. A minivan and other larger three-row SUVs stand out in these areas.
The tiny side windows in the last row are the other problem. Here, the Telluride’s boxy appearance pays off because it doesn’t have the same issue as the more compact and svelte Sorento. Because of the Telluride’s bigger window apertures, third-row passengers won’t likely feel cramped even on a short drive across town.
Positively, all Sorentos have second rows that can be folded forward and moved forward with the push of a button. Making the most of the limited space requires pressing the seat-folding button on the second-row chairs’ outer edges. The 2021 Sorento’s overall length of 189.0 inches, which is shorter than comparable full-size three-row crossovers, nonetheless places restrictions on it even with reasonably wide-opening rear doors and a wider wheelbase than the outgoing model.
Kia Sorento: What About Cargo Space?
Again, the 2021 Sorento’s more maneuverable size limits its cargo measures. Especially when compared to larger three-row crossovers. In the Sorento you have a comfy third row or cargo room, but not both at the same time. If you fold down the third row of seats, there is 38.5 cubic feet of extra space and 12.6 cubic feet of space behind it. When you have more to transport, as in our case, the second-row seats can be folded down to create 75.5 cubic feet of space. The 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe, a two-row entry, offers 36.4 and 72.1 cubic feet, respectively, so those numbers are only somewhat more roomy. The 2021 Kia Telluride, a three-row SUV that has won numerous awards, has space ratings of 21.0, 46.0, and 87.0 cubic feet.
In terms of schlepping space, you essentially get what you pay for. The Sorento has a neat underfloor storage compartment that is four or five inches deep, located on the left side of the cargo area, beneath the third row.
Kia Sorento: Digital Presence
Our fully equipped 2021 Sorento SX Prestige and X-Line test SUVs’ 12.3-inch digital instrument clusters were their best feature. The fourth design concept of the screen truly impressed me, even though I still prefer it when Hyundai/Kia/Genesis digital gauges display the speedometer on the right side of the screen for best visibility. As the analog speedometer and tachometer are replaced with digital ones, the background depicts blue skies, a few clouds, a few mountains, and a distant cityscape. Wait until dusk to witness a more appropriate (and discreetly portrayed) sunset in place of the blue skies. Based on the time of day, we identified at least three differences.
The controls for the heated and ventilated seats are located in a Telluride-like area, which is another aesthetic standout. The toggle switches are located on the raised edges of the center console, just below where it meets the dashboard’s bottom. The interior of the new SUV has a more outgoing personality thanks to the robust door handles than the softer, rounder design of the SUV’s predecessor.
Kia Sorento: Tech Tidbits
The 8.0-inch touchscreen is replaced by a 10.3-inch touchscreen in the SX and SX Prestige models. It’s important to note that the Sorento LX, S, and EX trims share the same screen frame on the dash’s top with the smaller display. This implies that owners of lower-end vehicles will need to get used to an abundance of shiny black plastic trim on either side of the display, just like with the Toyota Venza.
If you want a hands-free keyless entry system, skip the base LX. Accepting the good with the bad means moving from the second trim, S, to EX. On the one hand, you’ll get an electric parking brake and power liftgate, but you’ll also have to upgrade to the 2.5-liter turbo engine. With almost 100 more horsepower than the base engine, it’s difficult to dispute, but the turbocharged four-cylinder is paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission that isn’t refined enough to serve as the transmission for a family SUV.
Every 2021 Sorento offers lane-keeping assistance technology and autonomous emergency braking. The S trim comes standard with blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic braking, and the EX adds a new forward collision avoidance aid technology.
Kia Sorento: Good Insides
The interior of the newly updated 2021 Sorento is roomier than before and features more intriguing design elements. The second row has a simple one-touch folding mechanism, and I can’t get over how the design of the one digital instrument cluster varies depending on the time of day. But the majority of purchasers won’t even see that top-trim feature. But that’s no issue because I would steer clear of the dual-clutch transmission on the SX Prestige level, as well as the EX and SX.
If you don’t mind giving up one or two amenities, the lesser trims still come with a third row that is suitable for occasional use and has a redesigned interior and appearance. That’s a small portion of customers, but it’s another illustration of the today’s consumers’ surprisingly large range of options. The 2021 Sorento isn’t a revolutionary midsize SUV, but its distinct stance and improvements should help it attract “tweener” buyers who want a little bit more than a midsize two-row SUV without the weight of a large three-row.
What distinguishes a Kia Sorento SX from an EX?
The SX specification comes with better steering, bigger wheels, LED running lights, upgraded exterior trim, a larger touchscreen, navigation system, and a panoramic sunroof even though the V-6 engine is offered in both variants.
What distinguishes the Kia Sorento SX from the SX Prestige?
There are several trim levels for the Kia Sorento, each of which is appropriate for a distinct price range. The Prestige is the more opulent of the two, with more opulent amenities, despite the fact that the SX has many fantastic onboard technological and safety systems. What trim level is best for you will depend on your needs and your budget, so let them talk to one another. Safe travels!
If you found this article on the Kia Sorento SUV to be useful, we suggest reading the following articles about this well-known car manufacturer:
What distinguishes the Sorento LX and EX?
The new 2.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that powers the EX produces 281 horsepower and 311 lb. ft. of torque. In contrast, the LX generates 181 lb. of torque and 191 horsepower.
What distinguishes the 2021 Kia Sorento SX and EX?
Forward collision avoidance assist with automobile, pedestrian, and bike recognition and forward collision avoidance assist with junction assist are features available on Kia Sorento EX and higher model levels starting in 2021. Parking distance warning (reverse), parking collision avoidance (rear), and a surround view monitor are available on trims SX Prestige and higher.
Why is the Kia Sorento having problems?
Customers have experienced a number of issues with the Kia Sorento since it has been advertised and sold by Kia. These models share costly issues with one another. The following model years should be avoided: 2004, 2006, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, and 2016.
Common difficulties include those with the engine, the electrical system, the airbags, the seat belts, the lights, and the body or paint.
Engine failure is the most serious problem that these Kia Sorento models have. When most consumers have traveled an average of 62,000 miles, something happens. They could end up costing you more money in repairs, so we advise avoiding them.
Which Year Models of Kia Sorento Are Safe to Buy Used?
Production of the Kia Sorento has been going on for approximately 20 years. Not all of the models that are released, like many other cars in its market class, are flawless right out of the factory. Some people have flaws. Despite this, you have a selection of others. This is particularly true if you want to stay away from those already listed.
The following list of reliable Kia Sorento model years includes:
- Kia Sorento 2003
- Kia Sorento from 2005
- 2007 Sorento Kia
- Kia Sorento 2008
- Kia Sorento from 2009
- Kia Sorento 2010
- Kia Sorento 2015
- Kia Sorento 2017
- Kia Sorento from 2018
- Kia Sorento for 2019
- Kia Sorento 2020
- Kia Sorento 2021
The years 2003, 2005, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2015, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, and 2021 are among the safest Kia Sorento model years to purchase. Compared to the earlier mentioned model years, these have minimal complaints.
The worst issues with many of them were engine issues, a broken air conditioner compressor, electrical issues, light issues, and AC/heater issues. Most of them are also inexpensive to fix minor problems. However, they are among the minority of car owners.
The worst car troubles in early generations include crankshaft problems, frequent lighting system failures, and broken parts. It’s important to remember that these issues only occur in cars with more than 90,000 miles on the odometer.
A few owners are also affected by the problems. They are less likely to happen in a Sorento with little mileage and good maintenance. The models from 2007 to 2010 and 2015 to 2021 are the least problematic. The year 2016 is an outlier; it is less dependable than the other years in the following years.
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Which Kia Sorento Years to Avoid
The aforementioned Kia Sorento model years should easily accommodate your family’s needs and daily driving requirements. You need a dependable automobile in addition to one with excellent handling, a luxurious interior, and lots of attractive amenities. Here, we go into greater detail regarding the model years that weren’t chosen.
Steer clear of the following Kia Sorento model years:
- Kia Sorento from 2004
- Kia Sorento from 2006
- Kia Sorento from 2011
- Kia Sorento 2012
- Kia Sorento 2013
- Kia Sorento 2014
- Kia Sorento 2016
These model years frequently experience issues with their engines, electrical systems, lighting, seat belts and airbags, and body and paint. These affect everyone, and numerous users have noted concerns that are essentially the same.
You should steer clear of the 2011 Kia Sorento the most. It tops the list for having the most owner complaints. It is most likely to experience brakes issues, drivetrain issues, airbag and seat belt issues, and engine issues.
An engine failure at 77,000 miles cost the most money of all issues reported for the 2011 model year. Fixing this issue will cost $4,600. Other serious issues include an airbag problem that cost $2,000 to fix at 92,000 miles and a door issue that cost $400 to fix at 94,000 miles.
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The 2016 Kia Sorento is another vehicle you should completely avoid. In comparison to other models with lower mileage, it has more issues and costs more to repair. The most common issues are with the engine, then the steering, body/paint, and lights.
The engine has experienced the worst reported failure at 62,000 kilometers. Repairing this cost $6,100. Other owners reported having to pay up to $600 to fix wiring that rodents had gnawed. At 22,000 miles, one user’s car stalled while accelerating.
Common Kia Sorento Problems
One of the greatest warranties for cars is offered by Kia. But that doesn’t mean you should be any less critical, especially when it comes to reliability concerns. The most typical Kia Sorento issues, spanning all model years, are listed below:
- Engine issues – The Sorento’s engine frequently fails, which is a common dependability problem. The engine failure, which was primarily reported in 2011, 2016, and 2017 models, was caused by a leaky head gasket, which mixed engine oil and coolant. These liquids when combined can seriously harm engines.
- Frustrated owners reported that the Sorento’s doors won’t open when reached from the outside, which is more unpleasant than dangerous. Additionally, defective door handles made users of the child-lock feature even more irate. Owners of 2011 Sorentos make up the majority of the complaints.
- Burning out of headlight bulbs: Numerous customers noted that the headlight bulbs on Sorento models from 2002 to 2009 were particularly prone to premature failure. Additionally, several stories claimed that additional headlamp component parts were also melted. There should have been a recall for this dependability problem, but there wasn’t one. Owners were required to purchase replacement bulbs for between $100 and $600.
Kia Sorento Problem Counts by Year
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