Kia Sorento (03-09) - Review

Review by Dan Harrison on
Last Updated: 05 January 2010
Kia's large 4x4 is big on looks, big on value and big on ability. It's a great all-round package and well worth considering, even compared to more established and upmarket models. Along with a spacious cabin, the Sorento comes generously equipped, so it's great value for money while the diesel engine provides strong performance and plenty of pulling power - making it ideal for towing. And even if you'll never need it, it's good to know that this is also one 4x4 that can get you out of trouble if you do get stuck. The model was revised in 2006 with new bumpers and lights while the engines were tweaked to deliver extra power and the interior given a more contemporary look. It was made even better value in January 2010 when the three year warranty was replaced by a seven-year programme.
3 out of 5

Other Kia reviews

3.5 out of 5

Safety

The Sorento was awarded a respectable four star Euro NCAP crash test rating and comes with a good level of safety kit. Standard equipment, when it was launched in 2003, included driver, passenger, side and curtain airbags. Revisions in 2006 saw the addition of active head restraints to minimise whiplash injuries, front seatbelt pre-tensioners and a passenger airbag cut-off switch. An electronic stability programme - to help control skids - was added to XT specification. Remote central locking and an alarm and immobiliser are also fitted.

NCAP Test

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Provides motoring consumers with a realistic and independent assessment of the safety performance of some of the most popular cars sold in Europe.

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  • Adult Occupant Rating

    4 out of 5

  • Pedestrian Test Rating

    1 out of 5
3.5 out of 5

Reliability

The vast majority of owners have reported no problems whatsoever. There have been some niggles - rectified under warranty - and a handful of breakdowns, but nothing to cause major concern. The build quality certainly feels impressive and a different league to Kia models built before 2003.

Car check problem points

Body

Check for damage from off-road use.

Engine/Gearbox

No problems reported.

Other

A few recalls. One to correct possible interference between power steering hose and brake pipe for models built between 2002 and 2004. One to fix the alternator pulley that may seize on diesel models built between the same period and another to stop the auto models rolling forward when in reverse gear.