2017 Kia Sorento Review: Extremely Unreliable Midsize SUV With Expensive Ownership Costs

Alex Showalter
Jul 4, 2023

The 2017 Kia Sorento lasts around 120,000 miles with serious engine and electrical issues reported. At $13,500 to $25,750, it’s cheap, but not worth buying when you will spend thousands of dollars per year keeping it running.

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likeFilled The Good
The optional V6 engine is powerful, the cabin has luxurious materials for its price and the suspension is smooth.
dislikeFilled The Bad
The base engine is weak, standard technology is extremely basic and there are a lot of mechanical problems.

Is the 2017 Kia Sorento a Good Used SUV?

  • Overall Rating 6/10 – 2017 is a bad year for the Kia Sorento since it has a lot of mechanical problems, making it one to avoid. Owner reviews complain about frequent breakdowns, expensive maintenance costs, and warranty issues.
  • Interior, Comfort & Cargo 8/10 – Interior materials are nice for a midsize SUV in its price range, the seats are comfortable, cargo space is a bit lower than some competitors.
  • Reliability 6/10 – There are a lot of serious engine problems reported on the 2017 Sorento. Avoid models from 20112017, while 20182022 have better reliability.
  • Performance 7/10 – Performance is poor from the base engine, while the turbo four-cylinder and V6 offer reasonable power for a midsize SUV, but it’s still slow.
  • Safety 7/10 – The 2017 Sorento is safe, earning a perfect 5-star rating in government crash tests. There’s no standard safety features, while adaptive cruise control, and a rearview camera are available as an optional upgrade.
  • Gas Mileage 7/10 – Fuel economy is okay at up to 24 MPG, giving 451 miles of range from the 18.8 gallon tank. Gas costs are $10 cheaper than average, at $218 per month.
  • Value 7/10 – The 2017 Kia Sorento is cheaper than other midsize SUVs, although mechanical problems paired with rapid depreciation lower its value score.

Positive Owner Reviews

accountCircle Ken H
Great gas mileage for a midsize SUV
Great gas mileage and runs great. I loved the price and the leather interior
accountCircle Kari R
I really like the Bluetooth audio, cup holders.
So my boyfriend and I got this car in the last year, and it has proven to be the most reliable, aesthetically pleasing, comfortable and safe car we've ever had. Me and him did extensive research on the safety rating of numerous cars, but also we really wanted a v6 so if we needed the strength to tow anything for our filming work, we would. There is enough space in the back when we visit our family and want everyone to come with us, since it is an 7 seater, and it is sleek. The only thing I wish it had was a stop start button instead of the traditional key to start feature, but it is still awesome and I wouldn't trade it for anything in the world.
accountCircle Pj B
Great 7 passenger SUV vehicle.
Our Kia Sorento is perfect for our family. It is a 7 passenger SUV with power windows, power front seats, parking/driving sensors, third row drop down USB plus (front and back), three different driving modes (eco, sport, standard) and good on gas mileage. Overall good SUV for the price.
accountCircle Amy H
I love my Sorento. It's comfortable and reliable. Have not had any problems with it so far. Great for hauling things, just fold seats and load. Decent on gas mileage, I drive mostly in city and spend about 5 hrs a day driving. Would highly recommend.
It's pretty and comfortable. Very reliable and fun to drive.
accountCircle Amy D
Loving my Kia ( having a smaller SUV vs a large one).
It is been a great vehicle so far. My only complaint is leg room, seems small. But it has performed great, also very comfortable. It has good gas mileage, I used to have a Honda pilot and it was pricey with gas. Recently took a road trip that we did with the Honda a few years ago, was very pleasantly surprised at the fuel cost.
accountCircle Ellen M
Family friendly Kia Sorento.
We are so happy with our Kia Sorento. We have had no problems and it drives so smooth. We love the three rows to sit our whole family and the back up camera is a great additional safety feature. There is enough space for my tall husband to sit in the front seats or middle row - but he would be squished in the back row.
accountCircle Jen R
Great family car with eight seats!
Great!! Love this car for my family! Lots of room extra seats in back are a little hard to get to because you have to climb over seats.
accountCircle Michael D
The car is a 6 cylinder car which means it's acceleration is much quicker than other cars on the road.
My vehicle is a 2017 Kia Sorento bought new. The color is tan, the steering is tight and it is a 6 cylinder. It drives smoothly and has plenty of room with an optional third row. It also has an option to pay for Sirius Xm radio for a renewable yearly subscription.

Negative Owner Reviews

accountCircle Lavalle Coleman
Faulty Engine
After driving the 2017 Sorento for two years, the engine locked up, without warning, and became inoperable, while stopped at a traffic light. Reported to Kia in October 2020. No response
accountCircle Tom B
High maintenance cost
The Kia dealerships all force you into their “recommended “ maintenance schedule which is, essential, the severe weather schedule. They don’t offer packages to conform with the normal maintenance schedule. Either kia cars are high maintenance or the dealerships have been allowed to do their own thing.
accountCircle Bridget
Treated Bad ( had to pay for Rental for 5days) out of my pocket.
I bought the Kia Sorrento 7seater brand new 2 years ago. The vehicle is still under warranty. On Thursday the 13th of February 2020, after I had started my car whilst I was inside my house, came out after 10mins to drive off to work my car was still very cold. I drove off with my kids in the car with me, whilst driving I checked the dashboard and saw the temperature gauge had moved to the “H” but no smell. I left Georgetown Kia (Where I purchased the vehicle)a message around 6:10am on my way to work. They called me back and asked for the car to be towed to Georgetown Kia Service. I called the road side assistance and got an authorization to tow the vehicle to my dealer’s service ( Georgetown). After work I got a ride from a coworker to inquire about the problem they found. I got there around 3:50pm and had to wait for about 30mins, they advised my Radiator was swollen and had a leak, which is warrantied. They advised me, they don’t have loaner vehicles and they can arrange for me to get a rental @ their cost, I was upset, but needed a car to go to drop my kids off school and work next day and the weekend. I got the rental on the 13/02/20, I called on the Friday and asked when I will get my vehicle, cos I did not want to pay almost $300 for rental car. The service personnel advised they don’t know cos parts are coming from Kia Canada and a Technician has to be available to work on it. I expressed my concerns of the rental coming out of my pocket, the service manager stated “I will take care of a couple of days for you.” I called on Saturday to pick my car and they said your car will be ready on Tuesday 18/02/20. When I received a call from Georgetown Kia today @ about 12:45pm and they said, they will discount $72 from my bill from them so I should pay for the rental, I advised them, the rental was $45 a day + tax , therefore 2days is about$93. They still did nothing. I paid$ 246 for rental, I believe I should not have to pay anything for rental, the dealership should take care of that, cos I did not ask for my vehicle to be there for 5 days. I drove a Honda Pilot for 12 years and I was a second owner when I purchased it, but when there was a problem and they had to fix it, they put me in a rental for a week @ their cost. This was 401 Dixie Honda, great service. I regret buying Kia, especially with Georgetown in Ontario.
accountCircle Lisa S
I would not buy a Kia again.
Back tailgate latch doesn't work correctly, the stereo isn't loud enough, its sluggish and the controls are not user friendly on the touchscreen while driving.
accountCircle George A
The only positive detail is maybe I could say that it is very roomy!
Two very bad blinds spots in the rear! A couple of the features are backwards to my way of thinking. Like the traction button must always be pressed to disengage while the default is always engages. Very poor gas mileage. Things keep falling between the seats. In others words too many modern inconveniences.
accountCircle Kaela B
Kia-not as good as expected.
The car is made of a lot of plastic that cracks easily. The car is too small for our young family of 5. The gas mileage is not as good as we expected. Insurance is higher on a Kia because of the way it is built and it is not safer. I would not buy another Kia in the future.
accountCircle kay s
Kia is terrible to deal with regarding service
Like the look and how it rides, dealer and company have been awful to deal with
accountCircle Jennifer G
Kia not great cars to have over 5 years.
Its a Kia know to have engine problems and I have gone through it. You can tell it was cheaply made. This would have been the second Kia I brought. The first one was a Kia optima I bought a brand new transmission 4 months later the engine went. That's how I ended up with the Sorento.

What Do Critics Say About the Kia Sorento?

  • Consumer Reports says the 2017 Kia Sorento offers a city-friendly driving experience for a midsize SUV, with average owner satisfaction scores.
  • Edmunds rates the Sorento at 4.3/5, enjoying the well-made interior, but doesn’t like the weak turbo engine.
  • Kelley Blue Book users give the Sorento a 4.4/5, praising the long 10-year/100,000 mile warranty, but owners don’t like the lack of passenger room in the third row.

What Common Problems Does the 2017 Kia Sorento Have?

Common problems found on the 2017 Kia Sorento include engine failures, lights automatically turning on while the car is parked, and the steering wheel wandering while driving. Overall, these problems are worse than other midsize SUVs on the market, leading to more expensive repair costs as the Sorento ages.

Engine failures are the most widespread complaint from 2017 Sorento owners, showing up at around 65,000 miles. The head gasket fails, and ultimately destroys the entire engine. Replacing the engine is a very expensive project, costing over $4,000 depending on local labor rates. In some cases the replacement is covered by the warranty, but owners report having a difficult time having it covered.

The lights automatically turning on while the SUV is parked is another problem mentioned by Sorento owners. The lights turning on while the vehicle is off drains down the battery, and can prevent it from starting. There are no reported solutions for the lighting problem, so some owners install a battery disconnect to prevent them from turning on while the vehicle is off.

The steering wheel wandering while driving is another issue some Sorento owners have experienced in the first 15,000 miles. In some cases the problem is simply caused by poor alignment, which costs about $150 to fix. There are some other problems with the steering system, which can cost over $1,500 to replace.

There are four recalls on the 2017 Kia Sorento, which is similar to some other midsize SUVs from the same year. The most serious recall covers the tow hitch wire harness, which may cause a fire while parked. Other serious recalls include a bad crankshaft, and leaks from the high pressure fuel pipe. Kia will replace the parts on affected models for free.

How Long Will the 2017 Kia Sorento Last?

A well-maintained 2017 Kia Sorento may last around 120,000 miles before it becomes too expensive to keep running, which is less than half as long as the Toyota Highlander. Regular annual maintenance costs are similar to some other SUVs, according to data provided by Repair Pal at $411 per year.

As a used 2017 Kia Sorento reaches 100,000 miles, and depending on the vehicle history, owners should be prepared to replace the power steering hose for $600, the oil pump costing $1,500, along with the cylinder head which costs over $4,000.

accountCircle Paula H

Not so far. We have had regular maintenance and no real issues with this SUV. It has been reliable thus far.

accountCircle amy r

It has a very reliable engine, the dealership has a great warranty options and easy for month oil changes. The trees are above average and quick service checks.

accountCircle Ana L

I haven't really noticed any issues. I customized my Kia to add a wheelchair ramp and it has been great. Even with the ramp, there are still three passenger seats and room for stuff such as when we go shopping for groceries or other things.

accountCircle Starla M

I have not encountered any problems at this time with the vehicle it is self. The dealership did not provide the key for the locking lug nuts.

accountCircle Jessica C

I haven't had any problems with it. Because it is so high tech, the vehicle let's you know if something is wrong.

accountCircle alicia m

Yes the Sorento is very reliable it has gotten me across the country safely many of times. The gas mileage is great too, there are no problems that I have ever experienced with the Sorento.

accountCircle Michael G

It seems to be reliable, but there is a definite problem with wind on drivers side creeping in the cabin.

accountCircle Meagan D

Yes it is reliable, especially in adverse weather. The only issue is it does not have much pick up so turning onto roads that are busy is not easy.

How Is the Technology?

Standard entertainment technology is basic, only offering a regular stereo system with Bluetooth connectivity. Optional upgrades include 4.3-inch or 8-inch touchscreens with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

There are no standard advanced safety features.

Optional driver assistance features include:

  • Rearview camera
  • Blind-spot monitor
  • Rear cross traffic alert
  • Forward collision mitigation
  • Automatic emergency braking
  • Adaptive cruise control
  • Lane departure warning

Is the 2017 Kia Sorento a Good Value?

No, the 2017 Kia Sorento is not a good value since it has a lot of engine problems reported that are expensive to fix. The blue book fair purchase price ranges from $13,500 to $25,750, making it less than a Subaru Outback or Jeep Grand Cherokee. When new, the price range was $25,600 to $45,900. Depreciation is worse than other SUVs, losing about 15% of its current value per year.

What are the Different Models of the Kia Sorento?

There are five different models of the 2017 Kia Sorento offered from the entry-level LX, all the way through to the SX Limited. It comes standard with front-wheel drive, while all-wheel drive is optional.

L is the entry-level model with:

  • 17-inch alloy wheels
  • Stain-resistant fabric upholstery
  • Tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel
  • 40/20/40 split-second-row seats (fold, slide and recline)
  • Bluetooth connectivity
  • CD player, satellite radio and USB and auxiliary audio inputs

LX adds more features such as:

  • Adds a sound-reducing windshield
  • Roof rails
  • Rearview camera
  • 3-inch touchscreen interface
  • Two rapid-charge USB ports
  • Optional: Convenience package with Uvo eServices, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, rear parking sensors, eight-way power driver seat, heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, leather-wrapped steering wheel, auto-dimming rearview mirror, and blind-spot monitor with V6
  • Optional: Advanced Technology package with upgraded instrument cluster, forward collision mitigation system, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and electronic parking brake

EX is a step up, adding:

  • Standard with LX’s Convenience package
  • 18-inch wheels
  • Sound-reducing front side glass
  • Keyless ignition and entry
  • Leather upholstery
  • Steering-wheel-mounted shift paddles with 2.0T engine
  • Second-row manual side sunshades
  • Optional: EX Premium package with blind-spot monitor, 110-volt plug, adjustable-height hands-free power liftgate, power-folding mirrors, upgraded instrument cluster
  • Optional: Advanced Touring package with panoramic sunroof, LED interior lighting, safety components of LX’s Advanced Technology package

SX is a popular choice with:

  • Includes Premium and Advanced Touring package equipment
  • Upgraded steering
  • 19-inch wheels
  • LED running lights and taillights
  • Special exterior trim
  • 10-way power driver seat
  • Driver memory settings
  • 8-inch touchscreen interface with navigation system
  • 10-speaker Infinity sound system
  • Optional: Advanced Technology package with adaptive xenon headlights, heated steering wheel, ventilated front seats, safety components of LX’s Advanced Technology package

SX Limited is the flagship model which has:

  • Includes full contents of SX’s Advanced Technology package
  • Chrome-clad 19-inch wheels
  • LED fog lights
  • Upgraded leather upholstery
  • Leather-and-wood-trimmed steering wheel
  • Heated second-row outboard seats

What Engines Come In the Kia Sorento?

The 2017 Kia Sorento offers three engine options:

  • The base 4L inline-four engine generates 185 horsepower at up to 24 MPG. It comes with a six-speed automatic transmission. Its 0-60 mph time is around 9.1 seconds.
  • The optional turbocharged 2.0L inline-four engine produces 240 horsepower while getting 23 MPG. This engine also uses a six-speed automatic transmission. The 0-60 mph time is reduced to about 8.7 seconds with this engine.
  • The top-of-the-line 3L V6 engine churns out 290 horsepower and gets 20 MPG. It’s also paired with the same six-speed automatic transmission. Its 0-60 mph time is the quickest at around 7.2 seconds.

What Colors Does the Kia Sorento Come In?

How Comfortable Is the Kia Sorento?

The 2017 Kia Sorento has been highly praised for its comfortable and luxurious interior. This midsize SUV offers an impressive level of comfort, with seating for up to seven passengers. The seats are plush and supportive, with plenty of legroom in the first and second rows. Third-row seating, while more suitable for children or shorter adults, remains comfortable for short trips.

The driver’s seat offers a range of adjustments, providing drivers of varying heights can find a comfortable position. For those in colder climates, heated seats are available in higher trims, adding an extra touch of luxury.

The Sorento also offers a smooth ride over some of the roughest roads. The suspension absorbs most road imperfections, resulting in a calm and serene driving experience. The noise insulation is commendable, with minimal road and wind noise intruding into the cabin, thereby adding to the overall comfort.

Regarding interior quality, the Sorento impresses with its soft-touch materials and well-made components. Higher trim levels even feature elements like a panoramic sunroof and leather upholstery, contributing to a more upscale environment. The Sorento’s comfort, coupled with its user-friendly technology, makes it a delightful choice for both short commutes and long road trips.

How Much Storage Space Does the Kia Sorento Have?

The 2017 Kia Sorento offers a generous amount of storage space suitable for a variety of lifestyle needs. Behind the third row seats, the Sorento boasts a respectable 11.3 cubic feet of cargo space. This means you could easily fit small luggage, a week’s worth of groceries, or several backpacks for a day out. When you need more room, the third-row seats fold down to expand the cargo space to 38 cubic feet. This provides ample space for larger items such as a bicycle, camping equipment, or a stroller, along with some smaller items.

If you need maximum storage space, folding both the second and third rows down will provide an impressive 73 cubic feet. This vast space could accommodate larger items like a small kayak, multiple suitcases for a long trip, or even furniture items like a flat-pack bookshelf or a medium-sized television. Overall, the 2017 Kia Sorento provides flexible cargo options making it a great choice for families, outdoor enthusiasts, or anyone needing versatile storage options.

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What Are the Differences Between Years?

The third generation of the Kia Sorento was introduced for the 2016 model year.

2015: No major changes from previous years.

2016: Fully redesigned for the third generation with new technology, engines, and styling.

2017: Apple CarPlay and Android Auto added to the stereo system, more safety features.

2018: No changes from earlier years of the Sorento.

2019: Standard third-row seating, new eight-speed automatic transmission, turbocharged 2.0L engine discontinued.

2020: Minor exterior styling changes, EX and SX Limited models removed from the lineup.

2021: Fully redesigned for the fourth generation of the Sorento with new engines, styling, and technology features.

How Does the Kia Sorento Compare to the Competition?

The 2017 Kia Sorento is a bad midsize SUV since there are so many mechanical problems that cost thousands of dollars to fix, making it one that buyers should avoid.

The Hyundai Santa Fe is a competitor available for around $1,500 more. Both the Kia Sorento and Hyundai Santa Fe are built on the same platform, while the Hyundai Santa Fe offers a better interior. We recommend avoiding both SUVs for the 2017 model year since they suffer from the same engine issues.

The Toyota RAV4 is a smaller SUV which is about $3,000 more. Long-term reliability ratings are much better on the Toyota RAV4, while the Kia Sorento offers some more passenger room. We recommend the Toyota RAV4 since it will last longer, and is more affordable to own.

Ranks #11 Midsize SUV by Owners

1
car
4.75
2
car
4.7
11
Tie
car
4.54

Do Owners Recommend the Kia Sorento?

accountCircle Paula H

Yes, overall it has been very good, roomy, dependable. I like the extra storage and room in back. This vehicle has been great for our family.

accountCircle amy r

Yes, it has the average gas mileage, but comes with additional a great deal at the dealership. Most are automatic, all electric, heated seats, options for 3rd row. Lots of room for the 2nd and 3rd row seating. Great for long road trips.

accountCircle Ana L

Yes, it has really good brakes so you can brake very quickly. It has good mileage. The rear camera is super helpful in parking in the small garages downtown.

accountCircle Starla M

Yes, it has been very dependable in the short time I have owned it. I enjoy all the features such as heated seats and apple carplay. I enjoy the leather interior and the power of a v6.

accountCircle Jessica C

Yes! Interior is super nice, it runs smoothly. I love the sunroof and the extra row seating. Very spacious as well.

accountCircle alicia m

Yes the Sorento is an amazing car! There is so much room inside, and lots of space, the car drives great and is appealing to look at also it is a very safe car with great reviews.

accountCircle Michael G

Yes it is. The ride is smooth, technology is awesome and it is roomy in the backseat. Gas mileage is average.

accountCircle Meagan D

Yes because it is spacious and has good quality. It gets good gas mileage. I like the back up camera, makes it safe with kids around.

Owner Reviews

accountCircle Mike on January 1, 2024
Love this car
We have enjoyed this car. Purchased with 22k miles and now at 82k. Goodgas mileage and lots is space. Did have a rear differential issue but warranty covered it. Had the lightsgoing on and off issue but Kia took care of that. It is a bit noisy in the highway but othered don’t think so.
accountCircle Kris R on June 25, 2021
Kia Sorento good middle class SUV.
I like the Kia Sorento but I do wish it had some features that my old vehicle had. Like keypad to unlock the door, remote start and running boards. I like the hands free system and plenty of space in the back for our golf clubs. Wish it had more features with slow down, speed up with cruise control and maybe a few more automatic features. A front camera would be nice to have to park with.
accountCircle Roger J on June 25, 2021
Why I love my Kia Sorento.
It is very high quality and extremely reliable. It has had no recalls yet. It performs very well on the highway and gets excellent gas mileage. The interior is extremely comfortable on long trips. The exterior design is very attractive and even a little sporty. In short, it is a fantastic car.
accountCircle Timothy E on June 25, 2021
Great and smooth running car.
It's a great car. Runs good. Has good performance and comes with everything you need. It's a smooth and nice running vehicle. Love everything about it. The best car I've had in a long time. The only problem is it uses a lot of gas quickly and cost a lot to get things fixed on it. But all together it's a great and wonderful car.
accountCircle NIKA C on June 25, 2021
Good ride for good price!
It has everything the luxury cars have, at a fraction of the price. I haven't had any problems from this vehicle and enjoy driving it each day. It's very reliable and dependable. The only thing is that it makes a noise when the wheels cut sharply. Never had it checkout though.
accountCircle Sara C on June 24, 2021
Very cute red 2017 Sorento.
The back seat has no air flow and minimal leg room, and very difficult to get into. Otherwise it is a great vehicle and great on gas for a truck type of car. If you only use the middle row, it has a lot of room for groceries or transporting supplies. It is a good family vehicle, if your family is not more than 4-5 individuals.
accountCircle Tina A on June 24, 2021
Great vehicle. Great company.
The light bulbs blow out fast that is the only bad thing. I love the car. It is comfortable seating. Drives smooth. The trunk space is amazing so big seat folds down if needed for more space. Air conditioner blows very cold just like I like it. It is a great car for me and my family.
accountCircle Morgan H on June 21, 2021
Kia Sorento truths and facts!
Great space. Some issues with oil light flickering. Good gas mileage and low maintenance. Driving is very smooth. Car is affordable. Three rows of seats and seat heaters in front. Good visibility. Splash guard underneath was an issue and had to be taken off. Large screen that interacts with phone which enables easy accessibility to music and maps. Good Bluetooth connects and lots of storage. Would be great for kids. Easy size to park. Back up camera on large screen is excellent and helpful to reverse park.
accountCircle Samantha D on June 18, 2021
The Kia Sorento is a spacious SUV.
I am having electrical issues currently. Getting those looked at tomorrow. However it has been pretty reliable, very comfortable and very spacious. We have two medium-large dogs and they fit perfectly in the back with the third row down. We do not have any kids yet but with our nephew’s car set in we could probably still fit two more people in the second row.
accountCircle Megan F on June 15, 2021
Spacious and great on gas.
It gets great gas mileage for an SUV. It is spacious and having the third row seating is great. I just wish I knew the third row is not suitable for car seats. We haven't had any issues. Very happy with our purchase. We get the size of an SUV without horrible gas mileage or driving around a gigantic vehicle.
accountCircle Katherine S on June 12, 2021
I love my Kia and my burgundy leather seats!
No problems with the car. Comfort level is very high, seats are nice and plenty of room in the car. I enjoy the heated seats during the winter and the awesome built-in technology. The car has driven very far distances and taken us on many trips and there has been no wear and tear yet. Car seems to be operating just as well as the first day we bought it.
accountCircle Gina P on June 8, 2021
Kia Sorento for the growing family.
I love my Kia Sorento. The option for a third row is great for my growing family. The car drives well both in town and on the interstate and the gas mileage is amazing. I use the AWD option often during the winter months and snowy days. I chose the option for the moonroof which is great for warmer days. The seat warmers are also an added bonus. Next time I would probably add the seat coolers as well.
accountCircle Elyssa S on May 29, 2021
Affordable, accommodating, SUV.
My Kia Sorento is rather luxurious at an affordable price. It is AWD, heated seats, backup camera, and has other cool. Features such as apple play. It also has 3rd row seating for my expanding family! Average 17-20 mpg city driving, and 25-33 mpg highway driving. Would recommend to any family.
accountCircle Andria C on May 27, 2021
2017 Kia Sorento: safety, comfort, and features galore!
My 2017 Kia Sorento has most of the features that you could get without getting the highest trim package. It has automatic adjustable, comfortable heated leather seats, a 3rd row, all safety features/warnings (except for automatic parallel parking), and my favorite feature, the panoramic sunroof. I like that it has automatic all-wheel-drive, but also a button to lock all four wheels. There is a parking brake button and it will automatically disengage when you put the vehicle in drive. There is a button that will also allow you to choose which drive mode you want to be in: eco, regular or sport. Overall I love this car and all the features and safety that it has to offer.
accountCircle Henry W on May 22, 2021
2017 Kia Sorento, loaded and fun to drive.
Great performance, reliability, comfort and loaded with features. Never had any problems with my Kia Sorento it is fun to drive and can carry a large load. 4 door and three rows of seats and red in color with tan leather interior. Am/FM and Sirius radio, GPS.
accountCircle Jaquelina O on May 19, 2021
Our Kia Sorento is perfect for our family of five. Best car we have ever owned.
We bought this car for our family for daily use. We used it many times for family trips and it is very comfortable and roomy. It drives smoothly and is very reliable. We haven't had any mechanical problems yet. Our car is for 7 people, although the back row is very small but perfect for younger kids. We love the size of it, not too big and not too small. It is definitely perfect for our family of 5. There’s nothing I would change in this car.
accountCircle Michael F on May 18, 2021
Sunroof and driver alerts.
We love it very functional and reliable. Does not break down. Live the interior and function of options. Love the color also and tires lady long time. Good gas mileage and good turn radius. Love the space in back for cargo and also live the rally nice sun roof.
accountCircle Caitlin C on May 17, 2021
Good midsize car, would recommend for family/kids.
Great gas mileage, rides smooth. Plenty of legroom and trunk space. Each side of the car has its own temperature controls and seat warmers. Currently having an issue with the sensor for my headlights, car is less than 3 years old, no other issues have been noticed since buying this car.
accountCircle Paige M on May 16, 2021
Why you must have a 2017 kia sorento.
The 2017 kia sorento is the best car my partner or I have ever owned. It has three rows, and the third is actually very spacious when raised. There’s plenty of space, and air vents throughout the whole vehicle. We are expecting a baby this june and considering getting another one! There is charging ports in the front and back, heated seats in the front, individual adjustments on each side for your own air, and the sound system is amazing. Highly recommend to anybody wanting a spacious, nice vehicle. Especially people with kids or expecting a baby!
accountCircle Chris T on May 15, 2021
My vehicle of choice. All wheel drive 7 passenger that is great in the snow.
I really like the 7 passenger capacity. I really like how the seats fold down when I need to place larger items in the back. Love the leather interior option and the series radio. My only complaint is that it is a little slow off the start especially when you have passengers. The vehicle is great in the snow. Love the all wheel drive function and the rear view camera. All in all I am very happy with my vehicle oh you. It is great on gas.
accountCircle Karah L on May 13, 2021
Simple car but fits all my families needs for the moment.
It runs great! Room for everyone when seats are up. But no space in the trunk of the car is full. Very simple not many gadgets. I do wish the backup camera was bigger. And the trunk was bigger. I haven't had any issues with the vehicle and easy to maintain.
accountCircle Sara T on May 7, 2021
Spacious family car that handles well.
I love the ease of the ride, nice and smooth on the bumps. The steering is smooth, the ac is fast cooling, and the space inside is roomy. The trunk space is perfect and the interior in general has a smooth, sleek appearance. The exterior of the car is nice and sleek as well.
accountCircle Ricia R on April 29, 2021
Reliable and good on gas but too small for tall family.
The car runs good and is good on gas but it is much smaller than we thought my husband and kids are all very tall and it can be uncomfortable when take a long drive. I wish that we had purchase something bigger because of those personal reason. But it is a reliable vehicle.
accountCircle Anthony G on April 27, 2021
Quality at a price you'll enjoy.
The car is all around a pretty great vehicle. It drives well with a smooth drive even on rougher roads. It handles very well and you feel as though you are always in control no matter what the conditions on the road may be. I would highly recommend this make and model to someone who wants a well made and affordable car.
accountCircle Anna R on April 22, 2021
Incredible car for my family and I.
I have had no problems with my Kia. It has been very reliable and safe for my kids and I. It is super comfortable and lots of room and the seat warmers are a plus. I would recommend this car to anyone. It has been a great car for my family. There is also tons of space in the back.
accountCircle Suzanne O on April 20, 2021
A few downfalls but overall a great small SUV.
The downsides of the Sorentos are: the lights are do not show enough. I have my fog lights on at all times to give a wider area. The gas mileage could definitely be better. I do not do a lot of freeway driving and average 17 mpg. The seats are weirdly shaped (at least for me) after long drives my back and hips hurt which is very disappointing because I bought the Sorento for road trips.
accountCircle Valerie J on April 17, 2021
Not impressed. Car is very loud and has issues.
Its barely used and it continues to have a traction control / abs sensor issue. The car is also very loud yet the cockpit traps no sound. You can hear everything outside of the car as if the windows were down. It rides really rough. Poor suspension but good handling.
accountCircle Dale H on April 17, 2021
Love it. Like the option to only use one of the seats in the 3rd row.
I have had my vehicle for about 4 months now and have had no problems with it so far. It is very comfortable and seats 5. We have the 3rd row seat in it which when used does not allow for much cargo space. With the 3rd not in use it can fit just about anything you would need for a trip.
accountCircle Meghann H on April 12, 2021
Wonderful family of four vehicle.
The Kia Sorento is the perfect family vehicle. The hatch is perfect for hauling all the baby supplies. From strollers, chairs for soccer, to the occasional on the go diaper change. The only drawback I can imagine with this car is the front seat would not fit a very tall adult when a rear facing car seat is in use.
accountCircle Linda C on April 10, 2021
No regrets buying this SUV.
This SUV is amazing as far as comfort goes. Held up great when we were rear ended pretty hard. We love the way it handles and drives. Great get up and go acceleration. We wish it had another door to get in third row seats easier. That would be my only complaint but it is not really a big deal either.
accountCircle John G on April 8, 2021
Best car at a good price and great gas mileage.
Very comfortable ride very roomy great gas mileage. The Kia dealership stands behind their vehicle. I did have a problem with the turbo boost draining the battery they repaired it under warranty and replaced the battery at no charge. This is my second Kia Sorento and I do recommend it to all.
accountCircle Kiel H on April 7, 2021
My first minivan for the family.
The main benefit is the amount of seating and space within the vehicle. We have to be able to fit four car seats in there. I love that the back seats have their own heat system and volume. I do not like leather so the seats and nice to sit in as well.
accountCircle Tiffany W on April 4, 2021
The apple carplay and Bluetooth setup are flawless.
I have had my car for a year now and have had no issues! The only thing I’d like is for the gas mileage to be a little better and more fuel efficient. Other than that, the Kia Sorento is a great, safe, and reliable family vehicle that I hope to have for many years.
accountCircle Crystal M on April 4, 2021
2017 Kia Sorento review great on gas but a tight squeeze for a family of 5.
The gas mileage on my Kia Sorento is one of the perks. With having 3 children and all being in extra activities, the space and comfort is not what we thought it would be. 3rd row seating is barely used and not easily accessible. When used there is no trunk space for anything more than 5 bags of groceries. The features on my Kia seem to not be as functional as told they would be when buying the car. Back door button does not work on the keypad, there is no automatic close. I wish this car had more room and captain's seats.
accountCircle Mark M on April 3, 2021
It's great to drive and look good.
Door handle keeps breaking which is the only problem. I have also experienced that the car freezes up easily so you have to sit in the car with the heat on for the car to cool down so you can actually drive the car. The car is easy to scratch there isn't that much protection on the car which could make the car look ugly.
accountCircle Karen C on April 3, 2021
That it gets really good gas mileage.
Like the size and the comfortability... Dislike how it drives... The four cylinder engine is not powerful enough to make the SUV have a smooth drive. It is a bit jerky at times..
accountCircle Christi L on April 2, 2021
I love the space I have as a driver, and the ability to raise and lower my seat.
I have absolutely no problems with my Sorento, so that is why we leased and bought the current one that we have. We have the extra two seats in the back for extra passengers. The area is not for tall folks though. I am extremely happy with the features that my car has, especially with the large display for rear view camera. That safety feature was extremely important to have.
accountCircle Kathleen J on April 2, 2021
Kia Sorento - overall a fantastic mid size SUV.
The undercarriage is just held on with screws. The problem is in order to do an oil change they have to take the screws holding the undercarriage out. If they are not replaced very tightly the entire undercarriage will fall off. The design of the turn signal is flawed in that sometimes when you put the right turn blinker on the brights turn on. Too sensitive? Not sure.
accountCircle Adam D on April 1, 2021
Kia Sorento - transportation
Transmission has issues in cold weather. Windows give horrible vibration of air in passenger compartment if not opened in pairs.
accountCircle Sydney S on March 29, 2021
2017 Kia Sorento: great vehicle with tons of space!
I just bought my 2017 Kia Sorento a few weeks ago, I am 18 years old so it is my first vehicle. So far I love it and I have had no issues with it once so ever! It had about 57,000 miles on it when I bought it, as it was a used vehicle, but it was in perfect condition. I am a hockey goalie and my bag is huge but the trunk of the Sorento is massive and I have plenty of room for other things when my bag is in my car. That was one of my priorities when buying a car and the Sorento definitely succeeds in providing enough space. I also love the touch screen navigation set up, it is super convenient and easy to use. Not to mention it also comes with carplay which I love, it is definitely one of my favorite features. There are several outlets throughout the vehicle which is super convenient, especially when I have multiple people in the car. The gas mileage is also great and it is not a ton of money to fill up for a full tank, especially since the Sorento is AWD.
accountCircle Valerie R on March 29, 2021
Lots of space throughout the car with front and back a/c
Love the car. Very roomy. Smooth ride. Great turning radius
accountCircle Edward N on March 27, 2021
Kia: an amazing car I would love to test drive the latest Kia.
I enjoy it because of the smooth riding I get. It really good for big families and you can lower the back seats to move large items and have more room for groceries. It handles very well I am the rain not so much the snow. It's okay in gas but overall I love my car and currently working towards a newer model.
accountCircle Virginia C on March 23, 2021
The Kia Sorento is a great family SUV with an optional third row.
This is a great vehicle. Came with a lot of standard features. It's perfect for a small family. Only downside is for really tall people. My husband is 6'4'. When both car seats are installed in the second row and the front seat is pushed back all the way it is tight. Other than that we love this car.
accountCircle Alisha D on March 22, 2021
Very good customer service/warranty.
Engine blew at 20k miles however Kia had a great warranty to replace at no cost and even paid for my lease for the months it took to fix the car. It seemed bad but it was fixed by great customer service so in the end all is well. The warranty comes with the car for 100k miles so that is pretty unbeatable for any other company.
accountCircle Sarah C on March 22, 2021
A Kia Sorento is your next dream car!
I love my three row Kia Sorento! It has leather seats, heated front seats, tinted windows and pull up shades for the windows in the backseat. It also has climate control for the third row which my kids love. When the third row is not in use it has a spacious trunk. It drives smooth and is very safe.
accountCircle Nicole J on March 21, 2021
Really great family car!
Love this car! Drives smooth, great gas mileage, very reliable! Plenty of space. Interior is good quality but is thin and can rip. I have young toddlers who can be rough so that may not be everyone’s experience. Two car seats fit great! Overall great family car!
accountCircle David G on March 19, 2021
Great mechanics, runs well, and stops just as it should. Good mileage too. Looks great!
Good mileage. I like its appearance. It handles well in adverse conditions. It has a nice ride and feels good on the highway, firm but comfortable. I don't like the backup camera if there's any sun shining on it you can't see it and it's too small. I prefer a backup alarm or beeper. Overall it seems to be a good purchase.
accountCircle Dave M on March 19, 2021
Practical vehicle that is fun to drive.
So far I have loved the vehicle. Especially the computer screen in the center. It is both helpful, Versatile, but also is not distracting from driving which is very important. One feature that I wish it would have is being able to tell how many miles I should be able to drive on the remaining amount of gasoline.
accountCircle Anthony M on March 18, 2021
It is very comfortable and roomy.
The only thing I dislike is the location of the instrument controls and the style of the switches on the steering wheel. Other than that it is comfortable, quiet and quite peppy for a four cylinder. I also like the large screen panel on the dash.
accountCircle Ariel R on March 16, 2021
Reliable, Kid Friendly Family Car
I really love my car it fits my 9 year old and 7 year old and a teenager comfortably in the back seat. My trunk is large and I utilize it all the time. I haven't had any issues with it, only one recall in the time I have had it. I have taken plenty of long road trips and never no issues. I am expecting so we will see how three kids will fit back there in the next month. We actually looked at the new Sorento that had the 3rd row but I wasn't a fan because you lose all your trunk space and only gain two seats.
accountCircle Ryan D on March 16, 2021
2017 Kia Sorento SXL-Great for many different adventures
It is a great unit that I can take my dogs in. It is nicely equipped. Luxury features found in BMW's
avatar 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.