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26th
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Model: 2010 to 2013 Kia Sorento
Vehicle Type: SUV
The Verdict: The 2010 to 2013 Sorento seems to be fairly solid other than a few potential electronic issues that shoppers should be aware of. Thankfully, virtually all models in the used marketplace will have factory warranty remaining, which adds confidence. Ensure the electronics check out, and be sure the transmission is behaving itself and you'll likely enjoy a high-value, high-flexibility family hauler for years to come.
Price: Pricing for the pre-updated Kia Sorento in this generation will start around $14,000 for a basic model with some mileage, and climb well past $30,000 for a loaded model with V6 power sold as a dealer demo. The used Sorento market shows plenty of selection between $17,000 and $20,000.
What Owners Like: Typically, overall value for the dollar, looks, space, flexibility, and feature content are rated highly by owners of the 2010 to 2013 Kia Sorento. Access to the rear seats, as well as rear-seat room, is also highly rated as is all-around performance and driving confidence. In particular, the 3.5L V6 is highly rated when it comes to power output and refinement.
What Owners Dislike: Some owners wish for a quieter, more comfortable ride, and for more hip and shoulder room. Many complain of “cheap” and easily stained seat fabric, as well as poor sound quality from the factory stereo. Others wish for better outward visibility towards the rear of the Kia Sorento.
History/Description: The pre-updated version of this generation Kia Sorento is the first model from the brand built in the USA. It offered up front or all-wheel drive, 4- or 6-cylinder power, and an upscale list of available features including navigation, voice command, heated leather, heated wipers, push-button start, full multimedia connectivity, and more.
Power came from a 4-cylinder engine with up to 191 horsepower or a 3.5L V6 with 276. Look for a 6-speed automatic on all models, and AWD with a locking function for added traction as required (if equipped).
Common Issues: Some owners reported sporadic illumination of several warning lights relating to the Sorento's stability control systems, possibly accompanied by difficulty starting the engine or shifting into gear. This problem was covered for numerous owners under warranty, and seems to stem from a faulty switch or module in the braking system.
Transmission drivability issues, up to and including rough shifting, power loss, a heavy “BANG” from the gearbox, and a transmission that self-shifts into neutral may be caused by an improperly inserted electronic connector. While it is a startling issue, it is also one that's easily fixed.
Service Campaign number SC 079 deals with inspection and correction of electronic connectors on affected models, which will typically be 2011 model-year units. Ask your local Kia dealer for more details.
Ensure both key fobs allow the push-button start system to fire up the engine, if equipped. Several owners reported a no-start situation that appears to be caused by a faulty electrical relay.
Vehicle Type: SUV
The Verdict: The 2010 to 2013 Sorento seems to be fairly solid other than a few potential electronic issues that shoppers should be aware of. Thankfully, virtually all models in the used marketplace will have factory warranty remaining, which adds confidence. Ensure the electronics check out, and be sure the transmission is behaving itself and you'll likely enjoy a high-value, high-flexibility family hauler for years to come.
 |
| Photo: Matthieu Lambert |
Price: Pricing for the pre-updated Kia Sorento in this generation will start around $14,000 for a basic model with some mileage, and climb well past $30,000 for a loaded model with V6 power sold as a dealer demo. The used Sorento market shows plenty of selection between $17,000 and $20,000.
What Owners Like: Typically, overall value for the dollar, looks, space, flexibility, and feature content are rated highly by owners of the 2010 to 2013 Kia Sorento. Access to the rear seats, as well as rear-seat room, is also highly rated as is all-around performance and driving confidence. In particular, the 3.5L V6 is highly rated when it comes to power output and refinement.
What Owners Dislike: Some owners wish for a quieter, more comfortable ride, and for more hip and shoulder room. Many complain of “cheap” and easily stained seat fabric, as well as poor sound quality from the factory stereo. Others wish for better outward visibility towards the rear of the Kia Sorento.
 |
| Photo: Sébastien D'Amour |
History/Description: The pre-updated version of this generation Kia Sorento is the first model from the brand built in the USA. It offered up front or all-wheel drive, 4- or 6-cylinder power, and an upscale list of available features including navigation, voice command, heated leather, heated wipers, push-button start, full multimedia connectivity, and more.
Power came from a 4-cylinder engine with up to 191 horsepower or a 3.5L V6 with 276. Look for a 6-speed automatic on all models, and AWD with a locking function for added traction as required (if equipped).
Common Issues: Some owners reported sporadic illumination of several warning lights relating to the Sorento's stability control systems, possibly accompanied by difficulty starting the engine or shifting into gear. This problem was covered for numerous owners under warranty, and seems to stem from a faulty switch or module in the braking system.
Transmission drivability issues, up to and including rough shifting, power loss, a heavy “BANG” from the gearbox, and a transmission that self-shifts into neutral may be caused by an improperly inserted electronic connector. While it is a startling issue, it is also one that's easily fixed.
Service Campaign number SC 079 deals with inspection and correction of electronic connectors on affected models, which will typically be 2011 model-year units. Ask your local Kia dealer for more details.
Ensure both key fobs allow the push-button start system to fire up the engine, if equipped. Several owners reported a no-start situation that appears to be caused by a faulty electrical relay.
 |
| Photo: Sébastien D'Amour |