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.
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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
Young and experienced drivers equally are impacted by winter driving. To help you get from A to B as securely as possible, we’ve put together a list of the best automobiles for snow.
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What distinguishes the Kia Sorento LX from the 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 variations exist in the Kia Sorento?
The L, LX, S V6, EX, and SX are the five model levels for the seven-seat 2020 Kia Sorento SUV. All of these trim levels provide a variety of basic to opulent comfort options, making them suitable for the entire family.
What Sorento trim level is the nicest?
The main reason you choose a three-row SUV like the Sorento ultimately determines the finest trim. The finest trim is the S trim if you and your family require all the extra seats for children and other travelers.
This is due to the fact that while the EX trim and higher only have six seats, the LX and S trims have seven seats. The S trim, however, offers a few extra features and may be customized with a plug-in hybrid engine, unlike the basic LX trim.
The EX trim is the best trim available for the Sorento, if you and your family can live without losing the extra seat. This is due to the fact that it offers several useful features that the S trim does not. As the higher trims can easily push the price of the car into the $40,000 area, the EX trim also offers a lot of value for the money.
What distinguishes the Kia Sorento SX from the SX prestige?
Are there too many midsize SUV options available? Maybe. But the Kia Sorento manages to distinguish itself from the opposition. This has been the situation for some time. It is logical to assume that the Sorento will stay in the top half of the field for a while given that a brand-new generation will debut in 2021.
The SUV has a lot of internal room because to its extended wheelbase. This year, there are four distinct powertrain options for the 2021 Kia Sorento, including a normal hybrid and a plug-in hybrid. The plug-in hybrid model is anticipated to become available later. As previously, the comparatively modest starting price and extensive list of standard features make this Kia vehicle an outstanding deal for you.
When selecting a new 2021 Sorento from Kia, you have a choice of five different trim levels. All-wheel drive is an option for many of these versions. They all provide you with a reasonable amount of cutting-edge driving aids. No matter which grade you choose, this compact SUV is a desirable family car when you consider its three rows of seating.
However, nobody wants to spend too much money, which is why weighing your options is crucial. You might potentially save money by using the following instructions to decide whether trim level offers everything you require.
Compare the 2021 Kia Sorento LX vs Sorento S Trim Levels. What is the difference?
One of two grades, the LX, includes a 2.5L four-cylinder engine with 191 horsepower and 182 lb-ft of torque as standard equipment. It has stop/start technology to increase estimations of fuel efficiency. An eight-speed automatic transmission is mated to this competent powerplant. Although all-wheel drive is an option on even this base model, front-wheel drive is the default.
Some of the LX’s external embellishments set it apart from the rest of the lineup. The skid plates, rear spoiler, and front grille, for instance, are all matte black on this model alone. The window surrounds in satin chrome are exclusive to this trim level as well. The Sorento LX has a few upmarket features, such as multi-reflector LED headlights and turn signal integration in the side mirrors. The base model is mounted on alloy wheels measuring 17 inches.
The LX has seven seats inside. Looking at the seating, which has fabric detailing, makes it more obvious that this is the entry-level model. There is a manual six-way adjustment for the driver’s seat. The front passenger only has access to manual four-way adjustment. Thanks to the third row’s reclining seats, the youngsters can unwind on lengthy trips in the back.
Impressive technological features include an 8-inch touchscreen that comes standard on the LX. Also featured are the smartphone integration programs known as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Even better, these are the wireless models, which are gaining popularity.
Lane departure warning, lane-keeping assistance, and front collision avoidance assist with pedestrian detection are all standard. When the light turns green, the leading car depart alert in the driver attention monitoring feature can prevent you from being honked at. A rear occupant alert and high beam assist are included as standard features to make sure nobody is left behind.
The second trim level to use the regular 2.5L engine is the S trim level. However, this model does receive an improvement beneath with the increase in wheel size to 18 inches. The LX trim’s whole matte black components are switched out for gloss black on the S, which also receives black window surrounds. Gloss black low profile roof rails are further included.
The S is one of the two trims that are offered as a hybrid, which is very important to note. It generates 227 horsepower using an electric motor and a 1.6L turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Similar to the basic S in terms of equipment, models with this powertrain are only offered with front-wheel drive.
The S variant upgrades the interior by adding a steering wheel and shifter coated in leather. Both of the front seats have been greatly improved, and they now have heat. The S has 10-way power adjustment for the driver, but only 4-way manual adjustment for the passenger. A remote start system and dual-zone automatic climate control are also featured.
The S trim increases the number of USB charging ports for the second row from one to three. The 2021 Sorento includes satellite radio on this trim level and higher. The UVO link remote connectivity is also included; it provides access to remote functions, car information, emergency services, and more. In order to use the UVO feature, you must download the app onto a smartphone that is compatible with it. For five years, a basic feature package is provided without charge, but more expensive packages must be purchased separately.
The Sorento S receives various cutting-edge driver aids from Kia. Blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and rear parking sensors are all located here. Additionally, safe exit assist is present, which prevents the back doors from opening if a vehicle is seen approaching from behind.
Moving from the LX to the S is not particularly expensive and offers a number of noteworthy improvements. The S is worthwhile for those who are prepared to spend a bit more money.
Compare the 2021 Kia Sorento S vs Sorento EX Trims. What is the difference?
The hybrid powertrain is available for the EX, just like it is for the S. The EX, in contrast to the S, comes standard with a 2.5L four-cylinder turbocharged engine. The Sorento will have 281 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque as a result. The EX uses an eight-speed dual-clutch option, which is a small enhancement to the transmission. The EX is offered with all-wheel drive as long as you select the gas engine over the hybrid.
The exterior makes distinguishing the S and EX difficult. A motorized liftgate is one of the useful additions to the EX. Also included are LED fog lights. The open-pore wood designs inside this trim give it a premium appearance. Six people may now sit in the vehicle thanks to the addition of a wireless device charger and the replacement of the second-row bench seat with two captain’s chairs.
The EX trim’s forward collision avoidance assistance now has a cyclist recognition capability. Along with stop and go functionality, it has intelligent cruise control. Although it costs around $3,000 more than the S, this trim level has an interior that is noticeably more upscale.
Compare the 2021 Kia Sorento EX vs Sorento SX Trim Levels. What is the difference?
The SX’s engine is a turbocharged 2.5L four-cylinder; a hybrid version is not available. This model is equipped with gloss black 20-inch alloy wheels. The first choice to provide LED taillights to match with the LED headlights is the SX.
Metal interior details on the SX distinguish it from trims that came before it. Instead of plain metal handles coated in chrome, you get genuine chrome door handles. This model’s interior LED lighting raises the bar for elegance. With the addition of eight-way power adjustment for their seat, the front passenger is finally given some thought in this situation. The SX comes with a motorized sunroof as standard, whereas prior versions had them as options.
The SX receives a few useful technological advancements, such as voice recognition. Additionally, you get excellent Bluetooth phone and hands-free streaming capabilities. The Sorento SX includes multi-device audio streaming capability, which may not appear amazing. A 10.25-inch touchscreen has also been added for the infotainment system.
The pricing differential between trim levels has remained largely stable, with the SX costing $3,000 more than the EX. Although not technically necessary, this addition can be appealing to individuals looking for a cost-effective yet opulent SUV.
Compare the 2021 Kia Sorento SX vs Sorento SX Prestige Trim. What is the difference?
The SX Prestige is what those seeking the best 2021 Kia Sorento should consider. Although mechanically identical, it now has exciting paddle shifters for a sportier driving experience. The only obvious difference between the exterior and the normal SX are the power-folding side mirrors.
The SX Prestige, in contrast to the SX, is offered with the X-Line package. By including this, all-wheel drive will become standard and the ground clearance will be raised. Additionally, the approach and departure angles have been enhanced, making this particular Sorento model by far the most off-road suitable. A number of gray exterior details, such as those on the wheels and roof rails, are also added by the X-Line package.
Whether or not the X-Line package is included, the interior of the Prestige SX receives considerable modifications. The 12-speaker Bose audio system offers twice as many speakers as the rest of the lineup. It receives a 12.3-inch LCD cluster display rather than the standard trip computer display.
The cabin of this top trim also has a few more minor but attractive additions. The SX Prestige adds power windows with the one-touch up and down capability for the front passenger in addition to the driver’s window, which has been a standard feature on all versions. Also included in this grade level is an auto-dimming rearview mirror.
In addition to being heated and ventilated, the front seats include genuine leather detailing. For individuals who often have cold hands, the SX Prestige is the ideal option thanks to its heated steering wheel. This model offers the option of choosing the open-pore wood seen within the EX model, however metal inside decorations continue to be the standard.
The standard safety features of the SX Prestige are arguably the strongest argument in favor of it. This particular model incorporates surround-view cameras as well as front and rear parking sensors. Additionally, parking-collision avoidance assistance is provided, making it simple for almost anybody to park almost anyplace. For more confidence when changing lanes, the SX Prestige also has a blind-view monitor that shows what is in your blind areas on the infotainment screen.
The SX Prestige is appealing with all of its high-tech features and starts just under $3,000 more than the SX. That yet, individuals looking for a more reasonable choice should keep in mind that it costs over ten grand more than the entry-level model.
buying advice
Compare prices online before buying a new car to avoid paying too much. Find out the price in advance before entering a dealership. The following free services are suggested by us: Car Clearance Deals, NADAguides, CarsDirect, and Motortrend.
These free sites will provide you the best deals and provide you with numerous price quotations from rival businesses. Before visiting the dealer, you will be aware of the best pricing.
Although the entry-level LX is unquestionably a good option, drivers should consider upgrading to the S model. Everything from heated seats to push-button start is included for not much more. The S model is appealing due to its availability with the hybrid powertrain as well as features like blind-spot monitoring and rear parking sensors.
The EX trim adds a respectable amount of luxury without substantially raising the price. This is the most cost-effective choice for you if you’re looking for a little extra power. Otherwise, it’s unlikely that the features are worth the extra money.
The SX and SX Prestige are both appealing models. With its additional technological and safety features, the SX Prestige in particular exemplifies this. However, not everyone will be able or want to pay for these changes.
The 2021 Kia Sorento S strikes the ideal balance between price and features, making it the best option for the majority of consumers.