2008 Kia Sorento Review reveals an SUV bargain.

Thursday, July 24, 2008

2008 Kia Sorento Review

The Sorento is a midsize SUV that debuted in 2003. It is now Kia's best-selling model in the U.S. It was updated in 2007 with an exterior refresh and minor improvements to the interior, engine, and suspension.

The BuyingAdvice Team Says:

The Kia Sorento is a fantastic value in its class. Offering superior safety features, towing capacity, and style for less than most of the competition, the Sorento is real value. Kia has come along way, and the Sorento is a sign of what they're capable of.

What's New For 2008:

The base engine has been upgraded to a 3.3-L, 242-hp V6 that provides greater fuel economy. The EX has a standard 3.8-L V6. Three trims are offered: Base, LX, and EX.

What is the Predicted Reliability:

J.D. Power gives the Sorento 2 stars for dependability. Problems with the Sorento include noisy air conditioners, cold-starting issues, leaking head gaskets, loose crankshaft pulley bolts and chattering differentials. It was recalled in 2003 for fuel leakage. Expect average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for five years or 60,000 miles.

Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:

The Sorento received perfect government crash test ratings. In IIHS tests, it earned "Good" for the front and rear, and "Poor" for the side. Anti-lock brakes, a driver-knee airbag, full side airbags, plus stability and traction control come standard.

Pros and Cons:

Pros
+ Well equipped
+ Impressive exterior
+ Good on safety

Cons
- Reliability concerns
- Overpriced EX trim
- Mediocre gas mileage

Head-To-Head Competition:

The Nissan Xterra X costs the same, but lacks side airbags and can't tow as much. The Toyota FJ Cruiser costs over a thousand more and can't tow as much. The Mazda CX-7 Sport costs over $2,500 more and has a smaller four-cylinder engine.

What Others Are Saying:

"The Sorento shows that once-marginal Kia can come up with a very appealing sport-utility during its first swing at bat." - Chicago Sun-Times

"Maybe Kia is on to something. There are a lot of good SUVs on the market, but few that you'd call a bargain. This is one." - U.S.News & World Report

"The Sorento EX is a competent driver with a zesty engine and off-road cred that's seriously hampered by a budget car interior and over-ambitious pricing. The cheaper models- starting in the low 20's with a choice of a smaller engine and driven wheels options- make a LOT more sense. But the Sorento EX is not ready to play with the big boys." - The Truth About Cars

Read more about the 2008 Kia Sorento at the Kia manufacturer web site.

Published on Tuesday, April 1, 2008 - Email to a friend

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