The 2019 Kia Sorento lasts around 250,000 miles, with some oil consumption and windshield issues reported. At $18,950 to $37,500, it’s a great value for a midsize SUV with a practical cabin and a lot of technology features.
Is the 2019 Kia Sorento a Good Used SUV?
- Overall Rating 8/10 – 2019 is a good year for the Kia Sorento since it offers good reliability and some of the latest tech. Owner reviews praise the long warranty, low repair costs, along with the upscale cabin for the cost.
- Interior, Comfort & Cargo 8/10 – Interior materials are more luxurious than other SUVs, the seats are comfortable, although cargo space is lower than some competitors.
- Reliability 8/10 – There are no widespread complaints on the 2019 Sorento. Avoid models from 2011 through 2016 which have widespread engine failures. Newer models from 2017–2022 are much more reliable as they age.
- Performance 7/10 – Performance is okay from any of the engine choices, although it’s not particularly exciting to drive since it’s a heavy midsize SUV.
- Safety 8/10 – The 2019 Sorento is safe, earning a perfect 5-star rating in government crash tests. It comes standard with a rearview camera, while optional upgrades include lane keep assist along with adaptive cruise control.
- Gas Mileage 8/10 – Fuel economy is great at up to 24 MPG, offering 451 miles of range out of the 18.8-gallon tank. Gas costs are $24 cheaper than average at $231 per month.
- Value 8/10 – The 2019 Kia Sorento is cheaper than many other midsize SUVs on the market with a nice interior and good technology, making it a great value.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Do Critics Say About the Kia Sorento?
- Consumer Reports says the 2019 Kia Sorento offers a mix of the latest features and great functionality bundled together, with high owner satisfaction scores as it ages.
- Edmunds rates the 2019 Sorento at 3.9/5, enjoying the long ten-year warranty coverage, but doesn’t like the lackluster performance from the weak engines.
- Kelley Blue Book users give the Sorento a 4.3/5, praising the premium interior and creature comforts, but owners don’t like the relatively low towing capacity.
What Common Problems Does the 2019 Kia Sorento Have?
Common problems reported on the 2019 Kia Sorento include excessive oil consumption, cracked windshields, along with issues with the stereo system. Overall, these problems are similar to some other midsize SUVs, leading to average repair costs as the Sorento ages.
Excessive oil consumption is the most widespread complaint from 2019 Sorento owners, showing up within the first 20,000 miles. Usually, the extra oil consumption is just part of the normal operation of the engine. We recommend checking the oil regularly to make sure it’s full, and adding oil as needed.
Cracked windshields are another problem mentioned on some 2019 Kia Sorento models within the first 2,500 miles. There were some production runs of windshield glass, which were weaker and more susceptible to cracking. If your windshield breaks, you will need to replace it, costing around $600.
Issues with the stereo system have also been reported by Kia Sorento owners at around 1,000 miles. There are software updates available for the stereo system, which improves its reliability. Most dealerships will install these updates for free, while others charge around $50 for labor.
There are two recalls on the 2019 Kia Sorento, which is similar to other midsize SUVs from the same year. The most serious recall is for the tow hitch wiring harness, which may overheat, increasing the risk of a fire. Kia will replace the harness on affected models for free. The other recall covers the rearview camera, which Kia will also update for free.
How Long Will the 2019 Kia Sorento Last?
A well-maintained 2019 Kia Sorento can last around 250,000 miles, which is a bit shorter than some of the longest lasting SUVs like the Toyota Highlander. Regular annual maintenance costs are similar to many competitors, according to data provided by Repair Pal, at $471 per year.
As a used 2019 Sorento reaches 100,000 miles, and depending on the vehicle history report, owners should be prepared to replace the fuel tank pressure sensor for $225, radiator hose costing $350, along with the vehicle speed sensor, which costs $475.
Not a single issue. I still have a 2014 Kia Sorento. No issues. No problem. Any issue is so minor that the dealer handles it in under 30 minutes.
It is very reliable. It has very little problems and a great turn radius. There is no problems I have had so far and I have traveled a lot. It also gets up to speed without ruining the car.
Yes very reliable. I have not had any problems with it and hold that I do not in the future. I would recommend it.
It is very reliable. Only had minor problems so far. But I would say it is one of the most reliable cars around. Nothing can compare or come closer.
I have yet to have a problem with my Kia. It holds a lot of gas and the engine is amazing. Y only complaint is how jerky the car is in sport mode.
Very reliable, I have no problems with my vehicle. If something did go wrong my warranty would cover.
We find it to be very reliable. We have had no problems or issues with it. We have had one oil change so far and no other issues.
None so far, I feel I need to drive more. I am happy with it right now. I just bought in October 2019.
How Is the Technology?
The standard entertainment technology is excellent, offering a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. Optional upgrades include a larger 8-inch display with navigation, and a premium Harman Kardon sound system.
Standard safety technology is fairly basic, and only has a rearview camera.
Optional driver assistance feature upgrades include:
- Front and rear parking sensors
- Blind spot monitoring
- Adaptive cruise control
- Automatic emergency braking
- Lane departure warning
- Driver drowsiness monitoring
- Surround-view parking camera system
- Rear cross traffic alert
- Forward collision warning
- Pedestrian detection
- Lane keep assist
Is the 2019 Kia Sorento a Good Value?
Yes, the 2019 Kia Sorento is a good value for a midsize SUV since it offers a lot of nice features and decent reliability for the money. The blue book fair purchase price ranges from $18,950 to $37,500, making it less than a Honda Pilot or Jeep Grand Cherokee. When new, the price range was $26,290 to $46,490. Depreciation is similar to other SUVs, losing about 8% of its current value per year.
What are the Different Models of the Kia Sorento?
There are seven models of the 2019 Kia Sorento offered, from the entry-level L through to the more luxurious SX Limited. The Sorento comes standard with front-wheel drive, while all-wheel drive is available as an optional upgrade.
L is the entry-level model with:
- 17-inch alloy wheels
- Rearview camera
- Cloth upholstery
- Manually adjustable front seats
- Automatic headlights
- Bluetooth
- 7-inch touchscreen
- Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration
- USB port
- Six-speaker sound system with satellite radio and CD player
LX is an upgrade, which has:
- Noise-reducing windshield
- Roof rails
- Front seatback pockets
- Two additional USB ports
- Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert
- V6-equipped: Dual-zone automatic climate control and power-adjustable driver’s seat
LX (with Convenience package):
- Rear parking sensors
- Power-adjustable driver’s seat
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- Heated front seats
- Leather-wrapped steering wheel
- Auto-dimming rearview mirror
- Upgraded 7-inch infotainment with navigation
S offers upgrades including:
- V6 engine
- Contents of the Convenience package
- Black-painted wheels and exterior trim
EX is a popular choice with:
- 18-inch wheels
- Fog lights
- Leather upholstery
- Power-adjustable front passenger seat
- Rear air-conditioning controls
- Upgraded driver information display
- Keyless ignition and proximity entry
- Rear parking sensors
- Power liftgate
- Noise-reducing front door windows
- Advanced driver safety and assistance features (forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, lane keeping assist, lane departure warning, traffic adaptive cruise control, and driver attention warning)
EX Sport has a few minor adjustments, including:
- 19-inch wheels
- Minus a few features like power-adjustable front passenger seat
EX (with Touring package) adds more items such as:
- Panoramic sunroof
- LED interior lighting
- Heated steering wheel
- Forward parking distance sensors
- 10-speaker Harman Kardon sound system
- 110-volt household-style outlet
- 8-inch infotainment display with navigation
- Retractable rear door sunshades
SX has more features, such as:
- 19-inch wheels
- LED running lights
- Red brake calipers
- Driver-seat memory settings
- Wireless phone charger
- Touring package (LED headlights, ventilated front seats, heated steering wheel, automatic wipers, automatic high-beam headlights, surround-view parking camera system, power-folding side mirrors)
SX Limited is the flagship model with:
- Chrome-clad wheels
- LED fog lights
- Black brake calipers
- Higher-grade leather upholstery
- Heated outboard second-row seats
What Engines Come In the Kia Sorento?
The 2019 Kia Sorento offers two engine choices, each with distinct characteristics.
- The base engine is a 2.4-liter four-cylinder that delivers 185 horsepower. It’s paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. The combined fuel economy for this engine is rated at 25 MPG. Regarding performance, it takes this engine around 9 seconds to accelerate the Sorrento from 0 to 60 MPH.
- The more powerful option is the 3.3-liter V6, producing a robust 290 horsepower. This engine is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth gear shifts. The V6’s combined fuel economy stands at 21 MPG. When equipped with this engine, the Sorento can reach 0-60 MPH in a quicker 7.2 seconds.
What Colors Does the Kia Sorento Come In?
How Comfortable Is the Kia Sorento?
The 2019 Kia Sorento stands out as a comfortable SUV that offers a pleasant driving and riding experience. Its cabin is characterized by high-quality materials, soft-touch surfaces, and a well-arranged, user-friendly layout that lends itself to a premium feel. Passengers will appreciate the supportive seating, which, depending on the trim level, may come with features such as leather upholstery, power-adjustments, and heating and ventilation options.
The Sorento provides ample legroom in the first two rows, making sure long trips are comfortable for adults. While the third row is best suited for children, it remains adequate for shorter journeys with adults. The vehicle’s suspension is finely tuned to absorb road imperfections, offering a smooth ride even on rough terrains. Additionally, the Sorento does a commendable job at insulating its cabin from outside noise, making for a quiet environment on the highway. Overall, the 2019 Kia Sorento presents itself as a competent option for those seeking comfort in a midsize SUV.
How Much Storage Space Does the Kia Sorento Have?
The 2019 Kia Sorento offers versatile storage space that can handle various cargo needs. When all the seats are in use, the Sorento provides 11.3 cubic feet of space behind the third row. This space is enough for daily essentials, like grocery bags or a couple of small suitcases. When you fold down the third row, the cargo capacity expands significantly to 38 cubic feet. This allows room for larger items such as a bicycle, strollers, or multiple suitcases.
If you need maximum cargo space, folding down both the second and third rows will offer a generous 73 cubic feet of space, which can easily accommodate larger items like furniture pieces or outdoor equipment. Beyond this, the 2019 Sorento also boasts several small storage interior spaces, like door pockets, a spacious glovebox, and a center console compartment, making sure that smaller items and essentials have a dedicated spot and are easily accessible.
What Are the Differences Between Years?
The third generation of the Kia Sorento was launched for the 2016 model year, and will be updated to the fourth generation in 2021.
2015: No changes from earlier years.
2016: Fully redesigned for the third generation with new engines, styling, and cabin.
2017: Updated emergency braking system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto now offered.
2018: No major changes.
2019: A third row is now standard on all models, a new 8-speed automatic transmission, and the turbocharged motor was discontinued.
2020: Minor exterior styling changes, EX and SX Limited models discontinued.
2021: Fully redesigned for the fourth generation with a more spacious interior, new technology features, and updated engines.
How Does the Kia Sorento Compare to the Competition?
The 2019 Kia Sorento is a decent midsize SUV, offering good practicality paired with some excellent technology features while still being a budget-friendly choice.
The Hyundai Santa Fe is another midsize SUV, which can be found for around $1,000 more. Both the Hyundai Santa Fe and Kia Sorento are built on the same base platform, while the Hyundai Santa Fe offers a more luxurious cabin. We recommend the Kia Sorento since it’s cheaper, although it’s worth looking at both to see which you prefer.
The Toyota Highlander is a popular competitor, which costs around $3,000 more. Standard safety technology features are more advanced in the Toyota Highlander, while the Kia Sorento has a bit more legroom in the third row. We recommend the Toyota Highlander since it’s one of the most reliable midsize SUVs on the market.
Do Owners Recommend the Kia Sorento?
Yes. I enjoy it driving it. I live in a sense area and in constant traffic so the interior dashboard ease of use allows me to enjoy life despite not moving.
Yes, very great vehicle. Nice, comfortable, and a lot of room! I have enough room to go out of town and get away for awhile. There is enough room for my dogs and their cages.
Yes it is very reliable and a good family car. It is safe to drive in snow and always gets me where I need to go.
Yes it is a very good vehicle to drive and I plan to keep and use for a while. I wouldn't have bought if it wasn't.
Yes it allows me to drive my children and their friends around while legally fitting everyone. Although there are a few blind spots the technology on the mirrors allows for me to know when there are potential hazards in my blind spots.
Yes I love my Kia Sorento, it is a very good vehicle with great gas mileage. I am happy with my purchase.
The Kia Sorento is a very nice SUV.We find it to be a good vehicle. It does not have all the bells and whistles that our other vehicles had. Overall all it is nice.
So far, I like it. Haven't had it long enough to really give a detailed answer. I would imagine a few more months to a year.