2013 Kia Sorento Review: Extremely Unreliable & Weak SUV To Avoid

Alex Showalter

Sep 10, 2022

The 2013 Kia Sorento only lasts around 120,000 miles with a lot of serious engine failures reported. At $11,691 to $14,777 it’s cheap, but not worth the money when the motors fail repeatedly.

The Good

The interior is luxurious for the price, there’s a lot of standard technology and the V6 engine offers good power.

The Bad

The base engine is weak for an SUV of its size, ownership costs are higher than average, and the brakes are weak.

Is the 2013 Kia Sorento a Good Used SUV?

Overall Rating 4/10 – 2013 is a bad year for the Sorento. Owner reviews complain about electrical issues, broken parts, and mechanical problems.
Interior Quality 7/10 – The cloth and leather options are average, there’s space for up to 7 people with the optional third row, and the stereo has good features for its age.
Reliability 4/10 – There are widespread engine failures on the 2013 Sorento. Buyers should avoid models from 2011–2016, and go with a 2017–2020 which have fewer issues.
Performance 6/10 – Performance is poor from the standard 4-cylinder engine, but the V6 has decent power for a midsize SUV.
Safety 7/10 – The Sorento is reasonably safe with a 4-star overall rating in government crash tests, getting 4-stars in frontal impact, but 5-stars in side crash tests.
Gas Mileage 7/10 – Fuel economy is average at around 24 MPG, which should get owners about 432 miles of range out of the 18 gallon gas tank. Fuel costs are $37 cheaper than average at $200 per month.

Positive Owner Reviews

Lauren K

Great For Small Families!

I love my Kia Sorento! It is very comfy and just spacious enough for my family of 5. I fit 2 carseats and a booster seat in the back seat very easily. I feel like this is a very safe car that is easy to drive.

Daisy J

Kia’s are the best vehicles.

My car is a great buy. Kia has longevity and never has problems. I am able to fit 7 people in my car my whole family. Very easy to drive sita high up just like a truck. But not too high where it is still easy to drive. They have multiple different colors mine is a light sand color with tan seat in the inside. I also have heated and automated seats in the front.

Van H

It rides well and comfortable.

It is very reliable and comfortable. I enjoy the size of the vehicle. It is easy to drive and has the required features. It handles well in the snow. I really like the optional third row seating. It has ample cargo room when the third row seating is not required.

Nancy S

Looks nice, drives great and comfortable.

The deciding reason for this car was how comfortable the driver's seat is - 99+k it is still just as comfortable. The car is very rarely in need of any mechanic work. It drives great and again has the most comfort of any car I have owned and/or driven!!

Melanie W

I am 5'3, I love my cars to be higher above the ground. I get in and out.

I have not had any car problems with my 2013 Kia. Just the usual, tires, brakes, oil changes. It has been a great SUV for me. I highly recommend. The leather seats with the ability to warm them are awesome. I just recently go my ac fixed, car has almost 90,000 miles on it. I never had to replace anything too soon. Kia is great about getting you back in for any of their recalls.

Hannah S

More space than you’d think.

I love this vehicle. I have two kids under two and it is the perfect size for our family. Especially when it comes to grocery shopping because the back has so much space. The compartments in the floor are super useful as well. I love the heated seats and the air/heat work super well. The gas mileage is fantastic as well.

Darlene C

It is great on gas, 29 mpg.

I love the comfort of the seats and the height of the seats. It has a backup camera which I adore and it assist me in parking. There are very few blind spots with this vehicle.

Kay R

Bluetooth, third row seat that can be put away.

I have owned my Sorento for a good while now, and it is done awesome!. The performance is excellent, I really dig the Bluetooth and how I can add my contacts and talk on the phone while driving, without actually being on the phone. AWD is really good for the snowy weather. I recommend.

Negative Owner Reviews

Jessica S

It is a horrible vehicle. I will get rid of it as soon as possible and never get another one.

Turn signal goes in and out (short in the wire somewhere), airbag light is on, door handle has fallen off and Kia refused to fix it without charging $300

Tracey W

Rough riding vehicle on the road even on the highway

It is a rough driving vehicle however, it has a great radius turn.

Pandora

Eats oil.

No. It consumes oil like crazy. I Have to put a quart of oil in it ever 1000 miles or less. It doesn't leak it doesn't smoke. I don't know where the oil is going.

Mayra M

I have a small SUV but it has a fair road in the back I think that is the only thing I like about this vehicle.

I have been having problems with my dashboard. I have not received any diagnosed on what the problem is not even the manager at the dealership now is the problem. I contact a lawyer I guess it is called the lemon law, for a legal help.

Stephanie E

Not a dependable vehicle.

I've had a lot of problems with it. Some a couple times, fixed something then fix it again in less than a year. Some issues should be recalled but aren't especially when known by Kia to be issues. Not a reliable vehicle at all.

Bill

Engine Failure

Shortly after buying our Sorento there was a voluntary recall because of engine stalling. Maybe the Kia fix didn't work because 4 years later (just off waranty) the engine stalled and it had to be replaced at 120, 000 Km. We always do the proper servicing and we get over 200,000 km from our vehicles. Kia was terrible in offering any support. Instead they chose to profited off the replacement of their faulty engine.

Bill

Kia doesn't honor recalls

From our experience the Kia recall was meaningless. Our well serviced Kia engine failed. Kia knew they had a failing engine problem but they wait until you are off warranty and then tell you they are sorry but you will get no help from Kia. Below is the recall that Kia ignored for us. Eport Receipt Date: Mar 31, 2017 NHTSA Campaign: 17V224000 Summary: Kia Motor Company (Kia) is recalling certain 2011-2014 Optima, 2012-2014 Sorento and 2011-2013 Sportage vehicles. Machining errors during the engine manufacturing process may cause premature bearing wear within the engine. Consequence: Bearing wear may result in the engine seizing, increasing the risk of a crash. Remedy: Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the engine assembly, and replace the engine if necessary, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin May 25, 2017. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC147.

Jessica

Buyers beware! Don’t get it!

I paid off this piece of junk and it started having multiple issues right away. This is the first new vehicle I’ve purchased. I’ve always purchased used cars not wanting to make monthly payments but I got tired of the maintenance fees. So I purchased my kia brand new. At first I had no issues but as soon as I made my final payment the issue flood gates opened. The check engine light came on it was the fuel rail system that needed replacing. I took it to the dealer and they repaired it. I drove the car off the lot and as soon as I got to the corner the lights on the dashboard of my AC controls starting having seizures out of no where. I took it back to the dealer and they said they had no clue why that was happening. The only thing they could say was I could replace the controller and/or the ac compressor to see if it would resolve the issue because oh, ya the ac stop working too. Mind you when I took the car in for the fuel rail system repair the ac and controller were working perfectly well. Oh and did I mentione the airbag light came on and hasn’t gone away either. I’ve come to the conclusion that if I take the vehicle for repairs at the dealership they purposely create more issues for you to return because the first question they always ask me is, “ Do you plan to keep the car”? This car was poorly made. It’s had way to many recalls and with the engine recall alone it’s scary to even drive. The car can catch on fire due to engine issue. Don’t waste your money, time and peace of mind.

What Do Critics Say About the Kia Sorento?

Consumer Reports says the Sorento has a pleasant interior, but owner satisfaction scores are very low.
Edmunds gives the Sorento a 3.8/5 and enjoys the third row, but doesn’t like the long braking distances.
Kelley Blue Book users rate the Sorento 3.8/5 and enjoy the technology for the price, but owners don’t like the lack of cargo space.

What Common Problems Does the 2013 Kia Sorento Have?

The most common problems found on the 2013 Kia Sorento include blown engines, broken stereo systems, and headlight problems. Overall, these problems are more severe than other SUVs from 2013, and repair costs are higher as well.

Engine failures are the most serious and widespread complaint showing up at around 80,000 miles. There are mechanical issues in the engine that cause them to fail much earlier than in other cars. Replacing the engine is expensive, costing over $5,500. There is a recall on the engine for bearing failure and Kia will replace the engine for free, but it doesn’t cover all of the failures.

Stereo system problems show up on some Sorento models in the first 50,000 miles. The main stereo head unit in the dash starts to fail and features stop working. Replacing the stereo costs about $650, depending on local labor rates.

Headlight issues are also mentioned by owners at around 80,000 miles. The entire headlight assembly fails in the Sorento and has to be changed out. The headlights are about $480 per light, so a new pair of headlights is nearly $1,000.

There are 4 recalls, which is less than other SUVs from 2013. The most serious recall is for bearing wear which can cause the engine to fail, and Kia will replace damaged engines for free. Other recalls are serious too, including leaking fuel pipes, and engine fires, which all need to be addressed by a dealer to fix.

How Long Will the 2013 Kia Sorento Last?

A well-maintained 2013 Kia Sorento may last around 120,000 miles, which is less than half that of top-rated midsize SUVs like the Toyota Highlander. Regular annual maintenance costs are high, according to Repair Pal, at $593 per year.

Since most 2013 Sorento models will have around 100,000 miles buyers should be prepared to replace the alternator for $800, starter costing $400, and the fuel sending unit which costs around $900.

Alexandria C

No, I have had no problems, it has been a very good vehicle and I am very happy with it, very reliable.

Dana W

It is very reliable. So far we have had no issues with it. I do not want to jinx myself so. But, we talk care of it with regular maintenance, which will help any vehicle, but this one has been very good.

Brigette B

Yes it is dependable. Only problem the truck is the radio goes out and need replaced. The output on the radio goes out but radio still function without sound.

Tatiana J

Yes the Kia Sorento is very reliable. It heats up fast in the winter and blows out nice cool air in the summer. It has not given me any problem this far.

David M

I believe it to be extremely reliable. I have only had to do normal maintenance based on time and mileage.

Amy D

The 2013 Kia Sorento is very reliable! I haven't had any problems at all with it. Don't drive too much anymore since I'm retired.

Amy C

I have had no problems since I got the car and it's been around 8 months. I enjoy the car a lot and I've been lucky that I ain't had any problems.

Christine F

My Sorento has recently reached 90,000 miles, and I have had no major problems or repairs. The largest problem so far has been a faulty door handle, which was easily and quickly replaced under my warranty.

Is the 2013 Kia Sorento a Good Value?

No, the 2013 Kia Sorento is not a good value. Blue book prices range from $11,691 to $14,777, which makes it cheaper than other midsize SUVs like the Honda Pilot or Jeep Grand Cherokee. When new, the price range was $23,150 to $33,400. Depreciation is worse than average, losing about 13% of its current value per year.

How Is the Technology?

The technology in the 2013 Sorento is nothing special, even for a used SUV. There are no advanced safety features which are found on competitors. The stereo system is easy to use with good voice features and standard Bluetooth, but isn’t class leading.

What Are the Different Models of the Kia Sorento?

There are three versions of the Sorento offered for the 2013 model year, including the entry-level LX, and all the way up to the nicer SX.

LX is the entry-level model with:

17-Inch Alloy Wheels
Cloth Seating
Keyless Entry
Power Locks & Windows
Bluetooth Connectivity
AM/FM/CD Stereo With 3.5mm & USB Input

EX is a step up, adding:

18-Inch Alloy Wheels
Keyless Ignition
Dual-Zone Climate Control
Leather Seating
Leather Wrapped Steering Wheel

SX is the luxury model which adds:

Mirror Finish 18-Inch Wheels
Premium Leather
Panoramic Sunroof
10-Speaker Infinity Surround Sound System
Rearview Camera
Heated Steering Wheel

276 HP 20 MPG

View Details

276 HP 20 MPG

View Details

276 HP 20 MPG

View Details

What Engines Come In the Kia Sorento?

The base engine is a weak 2.4L 4-cylinder which makes 175 horsepower and gets up to 24 MPG.
There’s an upgraded 2.4L 4-cylinder which produces 191 horsepower and gets 24 MPG as well.
An available upgrade is the stronger 3.5L V6, which generates 276 horsepower while getting up to 22 MPG. Performance is average, taking 7.6 seconds to go from 0-60 MPH.

What Colors Does the Kia Sorento Come In?

How Comfortable Is the Kia Sorento?

The 2013 Kia Sorento is a comfortable midsize SUV with some high-quality seats. There’s enough room for up to 7 passengers with the optional third row.

There’s plenty of room for adults in the back seats, but the third row has limited legroom and is best suited for younger children.

How Is the Storage In the Kia Sorento?

Cargo space is worse than other SUVs on the market with only enough room for 2 suitcases behind the third row, 5-6 suitcases behind the second row, and over 10 with the seats all folded flat.

What Are the Differences Between Years?

The second generation of the Sorento was introduced in 2011, and replaced by the third generation in 2016.

2011: Redesigned second generation with new engines and optional third row.

2012: New 4-cylinder engine with direct injection, and Uvo voice navigation system.

2013: Standard leather on EX model.

2014: Minor styling updates, a more powerful V6 engine, and steering improvements.

2015: No major changes.

2016: Redesigned third generation launched with all new engines and technology.

How Does the Kia Sorento Compare to the Competition?

The Kia Sorento is one of the worst SUVs you can buy from 2013 due to all of the engine problems, and we recommend staying away from models from 2011–2016.

The Toyota Highlander is a popular competitor costing about $5,500 more. Passenger space and power are both better in the Toyota Highlander, but the Kia Sorento has a more upscale interior. We recommend the Toyota Highlander since it’s more reliable and has lower ownership costs.

The Chevy Traverse is another SUV that costs around $500 more. There’s more room for passengers in the Chevy Traverse, but the technology is more up-to-date in the Kia Sorento. We recommend going with the Chevy Traverse for the 2013 model year since there are fewer serious problems.

Ranks #16 Midsize SUV by Owners

2013 Toyota FJ Cruiser

4.84

Tie

2013 Jeep Wrangler

4.62

2013 Kia Sorento

4.26

Do Owners Recommend the Kia Sorento?

Alexandria C

Yes, I am very happy with it, I have had it for 6 months with no problems, I would buy another Sorento.

Dana W

Yes it is a great vehicle. We love driving it. We would definitely buy another one when we are due for another automobile.

Brigette B

Yes good and dependable. Runs nice just like driving a big car. Good engine and very stylish. Is my number one car.

Tatiana J

The Kia Sorento is a very good family vehicle. I love the three row seating but also how spacious it is.

Dianne L

Yes! The Sorento is a perfect size. Not too big not too small. There is amazing cargo space and the cabin is very roomy. It is comfortable and I feel safe.

Melissa P

It's great! Love the gas mileage and it runs so smooth. Had it now for over 6 years and still looks great!

Jerry L

Yes, I have had no issues with the vehicle, it drives smoothly. It was a good choice. I've been going on long journeys recently and the gas on the car has been doing well as I've been using eco, which is helping me.

Kelly L

The Kia Sorento is a great SUV choice for my family of 5. With ample space for kids and gear, comfortable, scrubbable interior, and decent gas mileage, it is a great ride.

Owner Reviews

Write a Review

Paul G on April 4, 2023

Never had a problem with my '13 Sorento and the one time I did Kia fixed it for free!

I owned a 2013 Sorento and still would if it was just totalled in an accident. It never needed repairs! At 150k the only things I had done were regular maintenance but the engine started making funny noises and I took it to the dealer and they said the engine was defective and was covered by a recall! Yup a brand new engine at 150k courtesy of Kia. Nothing breaks on these things!

Mike on June 3, 2023

I haven't had any issues at 180000 miles so far.

Other than the paint I haven't had ant problems. I have the v6 and it's definitely been a good car so far. The Sorento I have has paid for itself. I want a new Sorento but they took out the v6

Chris on July 26, 2023

2013 Kia Sorento LX V6 here

This thing is a rock. No problems so far with 130K miles. As long as you do regular maintenance, I don't see why it wouldn't last. I love my Kia.

Sharon C on June 25, 2021

Reliable mid-size SUV with heated front heated seats, and leather interior.

I enjoy driving my Kia Sorento, it perform well on the road it has been very reliable without any major problems or repairs. The driver and front passenger heated seats makes it a plus in the winter. I am able to carry as well as haul large cargo. The dependable of this vehicle has been wonderful.

Desere J on June 23, 2021

Kia Sorento major issues.

The engine light always comes on, the gas tank is too small you need to fill up every week, not enough gas per. Mileage, the transmitió always get stuck, and it. Makes a funky noise. The car always shake when you turn it on. It does not run smooth and the outside paint fades really bad overtime.

Daisy J on June 22, 2021

Kia’s are the best vehicles.

Reyna I on June 4, 2021

Luxury at its finest enjoy.

Has all the premium features. Love all the hands free options. Handles and drives well, fits two carats and a middle passenger. Has a third row option. Love the sunrise, sound system works great, vehicle has Bluetooth. The USB does not work well with an iPhone.

Pandora on June 3, 2021

Eats oil.

No. It consumes oil like crazy. I Have to put a quart of oil in it ever 1000 miles or less. It doesn't leak it doesn't smoke. I don't know where the oil is going.

Barbra B on May 28, 2021

It is a gray shiny gray rims orange headlight red break lights.

My truck so comfy I can sleep in it 24/7 it is not heat coming out the heater and cold air coming out the windows nice leather seats and has seat warmers which is helpful during the winter and also has a nice height from the ground and has 5 seats with nice mats on the floor.

Azalee G on May 23, 2021

2013 Kia Sorento SUV, all around great car.

The Kia Sorento has no problems, it is great on mileage and super comfortable for everyone that rides in it. Perfect for traveling. Super reliable and easy to drive. It is the perfect size for anything to taking the kids to games to going to a drive in movie.

Chelsea P on May 23, 2021

Kias seem cheap and poorly made.

Wheel sensors broke, constant recalls on multiple components (e.G air bags), tight fit for anyone tall in the back seat, driver heated seat stopped working, burns oil (have to replace at least every other month), the touch screen has to be pressed hard.

Maya M on May 19, 2021

I truly love the heated seats feature it is amazing if you live in a cold climate.

My car is spacious and good on gas I do not have problems with it. It is a nice sleek color has heated seats and back seat vents as well as backseat car changer ports. The windows are tinted it has a nice size backseat and plenty of trunk space for extra storage. It is a nice starter car for first time car buyers.

Earnestine M on May 3, 2021

Nice color and ride smooth too.

Nice car, ride smooth, and it is a push start car, my car is realizable, and very easy to drive. I would recommend this car for anyone, including mother too. The seat let down when you need more room. Can also fit 4 children in the back. A nice color too.

Cara A on April 26, 2021

My Kia Sorento thoughts and journey.

My Sorento has been great. No problems whatsoever and I am almost at 100,000 miles. Just standard oil changes and tires and mileage checks. Kia was reasonably priced at the time I purchased my Sorento. Limited features but with the option to add more, it is been a comfortable car and I cannot complain. Kia has been reliable. Car came with nitrogen tires and that was the best as they didn’t fluctuate pressure in the winter with the cold.

Kaitlin C on April 16, 2021

Perfect for my day to day driving needs.

Very reliable vehicle, the only thing that I have needed to replace other than normal wear and tear items, was the alternator at around 117,000 miles. I find it to be a comfortable vehicle. I love the size of the vehicle, it is not huge but still fits everything I need transported.

Gina M on April 4, 2021

Slovakia! We usually are Chevy fans. Kia turned our minds to family everyday car.

I love my car love the heated seats the air vents in the panels between the doors. The seat are so comfortable and the legroom in the back seat is awesome for my 6 foot 6 inch husband. We haven't had any problems with the car at all. It is one of the most reliable cars I have ever had. Specially hauling my special cargo. My babies around in it. Love the backup camera for help. The remote starter is so nice with cold days. Handles awesome in the snow. The only problem is we should have went 3rd row seating to haul kids friends and more people.

Jessica S on April 2, 2021

Great car for a family or couples.

Nothing really wrong majorly. It is a great car and I love it. We drive everywhere with it and it is a smooth ride. I love the Kia cars and would get another Kia. I might get a minivan. It has a third row and it's very spacious. I can see having this car for many years to come.

Nancy S on March 31, 2021

Cute, reliable and very comfortable.

It is probably the most comfortable car - both front seat and back seat I have ever driven and/or ridden in. It is a very low maintenance vehicle. It holds the road very well, handles nicely and has had very few to almost no issues. I would recommend this car to anyone looking for a mid grade SUV.

Carrie J on March 31, 2021

Seats fold down flat, providing a large surface for loading and transporting.

Only problems I have had with this vehicle are sensors going out and it cost a lot to fix. These are random sensors that do not really affect the performance of the car but just cause lights to come on and stay on till fixed. I love the look and feel of this car.

Ta S on March 29, 2021

Kia Sorento review negatives 2013 model.

Leather gets hot. Ac in the back not separate. Not enough cup holders. Gas mileage. No side cameras. Not enough charging ports. 3rd row not big enough for adults. Back of 3rd row not leather. Scratches easy with leather. Back seats not heated. Hard to get out of 3rd row.

Cynthia B on March 29, 2021

Good Warranty. Good gas mileage, spacious

I brought my vehicle used, 3 years old, it ran great until August of 2018 with no major mechanical issues. Because of a defective recall part my engine had to be replaced at no cost to me. It runs like a new car and I'll be keeping it for 4 more years. I will be buying another Kia Sorento when I'm ready to purchase again It has good gas consumption and handles really well for a large vehicle.

Christina T on March 29, 2021

Great family car, safe and reliable!

My Sorento has had very little issues since I bought it in 2013. It was certified used with only 3k miles. Currently I have 106k miles and the only thing I have had to repair has been the starter for a few hundred bucks. Other than that it is been a great family car and I plan on keeping it and passing it down to my son in a few years when he starts to drive.

Amy A on March 27, 2021

Uses average amount on gas.

Overall it is a good car. However, I would prefer something a bit bigger. I would like it if it had a back up camera. One thing I dislike is it has a lot of blind spots.

Samantha G on March 25, 2021

It is a great family car and spacious.

Car is very reliable and very good on gas. Its driven roughly 30 miles a day and with gas at 1.99 a gal I spend roughly $45 a week to fill up. It is also very well in the winter and I feel comfortable putting my kids in the car. Only problem ever was a engine recall but Kia took care of us.

Mark G on March 24, 2021

Few repairs have been needed.We have gone for oil changes and new tires as well as recalls but that has been it.

Like the room and how it handles. The rear camera good be more clear.

brenda o on March 21, 2021

KIA Sorento 2013..........

I have not had significant problems with the car, I did have to pay to fix a factory defect related to the steering wheel.

Elizabeth B on March 20, 2021

Reliable car for a good price.

I have never had to do any major repairs on my vehicle in the years I have owned it. I still have the original battery and tires. I love the extra features that are in my car including heated seats, a backup camera, and a touch screen. The gas mileage is decent for a SUV.

Leisly O on March 20, 2021

Silver/ gray Kia Sorento 2013. Typical ready to go mom car.

I love my Kia Sorento! It's very spacious and great car to start a family. I have no complications whatsoever. Great on gas mileage no issues at all! I love doing road trips with my car. Me and husband have plenty of room to pack for road trips. Its is amazing. I have no complaints.

Bob on March 19, 2021

Service and honesty

I bought my Sorento used...I got the recall and took it in, much to my surprise the dealer said he was gonna keep it for a day or 2 to check something out...they rented me a car to use...2 days later the dealer called and told me to keep the rental they were installing a brand new engine at no cost to me...I didn't even know there was a problem......I was treated very well and would not hesitate to deal with KIA again in the future.

Erin D on March 16, 2021

I has made it ten years with minimal upkeep.

Pretty good, there was just a ton of recalls on it. Otherwise the car runs really well and has kept up with my driving demands. It also does well on icy and snowy roads for a crossover. The only thing I would mention as well is that the manual is not as helpful as you would need it to be when you are changing tires etc.

Hannah S on March 15, 2021

More space than you’d think.

Frank D on March 14, 2021

Great, and reliable vehicle.

Comfort, great gas mileage, large trunk space, smooth ride, good protection in crash. Only some minor electrical problems with fuses in beginning. Very reliable. Great company with least recalls and good roadside assistance. Many and cheap options and upgrades available.

Sarah L on March 14, 2021

My amazing Kia Sorento ex.

I love my side to. Leather heated seats. Bluetooth. Navigation system. Drives beautifully and is very comfortable. The Sorento has 3 rows of seating. The back 2 rows easily go up and down. There are racks on top making it easy to transport stuff. My Kia is by far the best car I have ever owned.

Doug B on March 13, 2021

How well the engine is made and runs.

I love all the options on it. The way the dash and inside of the car is great. It handles well also.

Audra D on March 12, 2021

Great features, reliable, and easy to drive!

My Kia Sorento did have engine problems, but due to a recall they replaced the entire engine. So, it does run well now. I have 2 kids and one is a teen now(the other a toddler and in car seat), so I do a lot of picking up and dropping off with other kids riding along quite often. This car just does not provide the space I’d like to accommodate my needs now. I also wish it drove smoother. It gets very bumpy. You can feel every little bump and pothole you go over no matter the size and it is also loud, but I am sure the way my car feels to me is normal for a 2013 midsize SUV. While now I need an upgrade, it has been a pretty great car over the years. I just need more space now, smoother driving, and definitely some upgrades like apple CarPlay, a better microphone for when my phone is bluetoothed to the vehicle(nobody can ever understand or hear me), upgraded navigation system, etc..

Maria B on March 11, 2021

Reliability and functionality is the name of the game!

This vehicle is very comfortable and reliable. It has had very few problems and I have owned it for about 4 years now. My favorite features are the backup camera and the bluetooth.

Kim D on March 8, 2021

Mom's review of Kia Sorento.

Great gas mileage. Very roomy. So far no major problems with the vehicle. Love the third row seating. When not using the third row lots of storage space in back. Great in snow. Love controls on steering wheel. Lots of places to plug in car. Chargers. Looks great.

Crystal M on March 3, 2021

We love our 2013 Kia Sorento

I've had an issue with the AWD turning on while I'm driving on the highway, also it was burning oil bad when we first purchased it 4 months ago. Other than those two issues the vehicle drives well, it's a very comfortable and reliable vehicle. We love it!

Anna H on March 1, 2021

Despite an engine recall and replacement, I love my Kia Sorento.

My engine had a recall shortly after purchasing. Luckily my car qualified to have the engine replaced at no cost. I also had an issue with one of the sensors, but that was also covered under a recall. The car is a great size, not too big and not too small. It also has great gas mileage for it is size.

Stacy W on March 1, 2021

Kia Sorento is family friendly.

Very reliable. Good gas mileage. The air keeps me and the kids cool. There is plenty of room for all of us. It has power windows and doors. Thankfully the car seats sit back far enough the kids cannot reach. There is easy access to the rear storage. Good family vehicle.

Daniel F on February 27, 2021

The Kia Sorento is spacious, safe and reliable.

The Kia Sorento is a practical car for my family. I have my wife and three girls and the car is spacious enough for all of us. It has a third row which is helpful in many occasions. The car drives smoothly and is reliable. I have had it for 8 years with no issues or complaints.

Abby L on February 26, 2021

Kia Sorento best in class small SUV with 7 row seating.

I love my Kia Sorento, I have a black cherry v6 sx fully loaded it drives great it is really a eye turner. In winter the seat warmer r perfect I wish I also had the heat in the steering wheel, if I had to give it up I would want the same exact one but more updates like steering wheel heat and sensor trunk opener everythings else is great.

Elizabeth F on February 24, 2021

The 2013 Kia Sorento is a very comfortable and reliable vehicle.

The Kia Sorento is a great small sport utility vehicle. It is very reliable with no mechanical issues to date. The only issue with the 3 row seating option is that the back seat has very little leg room for an average adult.

Char J on February 22, 2021

My car has a third row! And I love it.

It is great! Very reliable. Easy to drive, and never gives me problems. I like how simple it is. It comes with Bluetooth speaker so I can drive and talk. It is very safe. Originally purchased this when I was pregnant with my second child. I also love the third row, so I can separate the kids when they’re fighting. LoL.

Ethel B on February 21, 2021

Comfortable and reliable it worth your money.

Yes I love my car good on gas lot of room interior nice to keep clean and l. Just everything about it I would tell anybody if you looking for a. Car get a Kia Sorento that will be the best investments you can have. Take my advice an investment in a Kia Sorento.

Kyung H on February 20, 2021

She is durable, dependable, and endures.

For a midsize SUV, she is a beast. Has travelled the country, north south east and west without issues.

Larry G on February 15, 2021

Has not yet let me down very dependable comfortable easy to get in and out of

I have had no problems with my vehicle l am very satisfied with the performance of my KIA my car does not have many features it is a basic model no powerseats no heated seats has been very reliable for the time I've owned it. Basic maintenance oil changes tires and front brakes

Jennifer O on February 11, 2021

Great family vehicle! Fits up to 8 people.

No problems. Very good on gas, very reliable. Comfortable. Great engine, economy car. Seats 8. Every recall has been done and quickly. The Kia company is very good with notifications for this. Great, sturdy ride. Only maintenance is oil changes so far. Extremely pleased.

Nicole M on February 2, 2021

Excellent car good for all purpose driving with family or single adult.

Has been a very reliable vehicle. Love the heated seats, especially in winter. Fits two car seats comfortably and a small booster between if needed. The storage space is roomy and their are back seats for extra passengers. There is an eco feature which saves gas. Gets very good gas mileage.

brad b on February 1, 2021

Roomy vehicle feel safe to drive. Fog lights may be helpful.

Reliable car and pretty good on gas. Has had several recalls that were handled without incident. Lower the back seat and lots of room for hauling.

Sydney A on February 1, 2021

An interesting detail is the hidden compartment in the trunk.

I love everything about it! I has a decent sized front seat area, drives great in all weather and has a good sound system. I also love the hidden compartment in the trunk. One thing I wish it had was a sunroof to put down on warm days. Also wish the backseat area was larger.

Sam C on January 28, 2021

My Kia Sorento is great!!

It is amazing and is so comfortable for long road trips, lots of space in the front and back seats, the trunk is huge and the speakers are great. Also it has had little to no problems running, it is also a gorgeous car. I would recommend to anyone who needs a great SUV.

Sharon S on January 28, 2021

A very comfortable and driver friendly vehicle.

My vehicle is very comfortable, I like how it is easy to read all the Gauges. I like the fabric it is very easy to clean. The seats are very easy to move. The gas mileage is very good. The vehicle rides very good & is very quiet. The paint is very nice & easy to keep clean. I have a third passenger seat and is very convenient. I love the convenience of the SUV and is good for snow or rain.

Alex Showalter

Alex is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. He brings a wealth of knowledge to Vehicle History as our Staff Writer and has written hundreds of used car reviews helping buyers make informed purchasing decisions. He is a member of the Automotive Press Association, and keeps up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry. Over the years, he has driven hundreds of cars, working on many of them. His mechanical experience evolved from modifying off-road trucks as a teen to focusing on automotive electrical systems as he got older. He now specializes in reviewing used cars as an automotive journalist. Some of his favorite brands are Toyota and BMW. The Toyota Land Cruiser is one of his favorite vehicles of all time since they’re built to last forever and can go anywhere. One of his current cars is a Lexus LX570, built on the same platform as the 200-series Land Cruiser, but it’s a better value in the used market.