The Kia Sorento made its debut in the United States in 2003 as Kia’s first entry into the midsize SUV market. Initially designed with a rugged, body-on-frame construction, the Sorento appealed to adventurous drivers who valued off-road capability and durability. Over the years, the Sorento morphed into a refined unibody design, prioritizing on-road comfort, fuel efficiency, and family-friendly features. This transformation solidified its place in a highly competitive segment. Here, we’ll explore five of the best Kia Sorento years, showcasing why these models shine.

Drivers appreciate the Kia Sorento for its versatility, offering something for everyone—from spacious interiors to modern safety features and efficient powertrains. However, not all Sorento model years are created equal. Some years stand out for their exceptional reliability and owner satisfaction. Whether you’re in the market for a reliable used SUV or just curious about the Sorento’s highlights, these years represent the cream of the crop.

2009 Kia Sorento: The durable first-gen finale

The 2009 Kia Sorento marked the final year of the first generation, and Kia ensured it went out on a high note. By this time, Kia had addressed many of the teething issues from earlier model years, resulting in a well-rounded and dependable vehicle.

• Engine Options and Performance: Buyers could choose between a 3.3L V6 engine producing 242 horsepower and a more robust 3.8L V6 with 262 horsepower. Both engines offered smooth acceleration and impressive towing capabilities, with a maximum tow rating of 3,500 pounds.
• Why It Stands Out: The 2009 Sorento is lauded for its mechanical simplicity, with fewer electronic components that could fail over time. It featured a rugged ladder-frame design that made it ideal for light off-roading and ensured long-term durability.
• Interior Comforts: While the design was functional rather than luxurious, the 2009 model offered comfortable seating and intuitive controls. Many owners appreciated the straightforward layout, which has aged gracefully.
• Reliability: This model year saw fewer major issues reported compared to earlier versions, earning it high marks from both consumers and reviewers.

2015 Kia Sorento: A refined second generation

The second generation of the Kia Sorento began in 2011, but the 2015 model is widely considered one of the best. By this time, Kia had made significant strides in design, performance, and technology, elevating the Sorento to a new level.

• Engine Choices: The 2015 Sorento offered a 2.4L four-cylinder engine with 191 horsepower and a 3.3L V6 delivering 290 horsepower. The V6 option was particularly popular for its smooth power delivery and ability to handle long road trips with ease.
• Comfort and Features: The interior was a standout feature, boasting high-quality materials and an ergonomic layout. It offered plenty of space for passengers and cargo, making it a practical choice for families. Available features included a panoramic sunroof, heated seats, and an intuitive infotainment system.
• Why It Stands Out: The 2015 Sorento was praised for its quiet ride and composed handling, which were comparable to more expensive competitors. Kia also improved reliability, addressing common issues from earlier second-generation models.
• Safety: This model year earned excellent safety ratings, thanks to features like stability control, antilock brakes, and multiple airbags.

If you’re looking for a midsize SUV that balances value and performance, the 2015 Sorento is a strong contender.

2017 Kia Sorento: A reliability champion

The 2017 Kia Sorento, part of the third generation, stands out for its exceptional reliability and versatility. Kia fine-tuned the Sorento’s formula, resulting in a model year that received high praise from both critics and owners.

• Engine Options: The 2017 Sorento offered three engines: a 2.4L four-cylinder, a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder, and a 3.3L V6. The turbocharged engine provided an excellent balance of power and efficiency, while the V6 was ideal for those who needed more muscle.
• Interior Excellence: The cabin featured soft-touch materials, comfortable seating, and an intuitive infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Its spacious interior included optional third-row seating, making it adaptable for families.
• Why It Stands Out: Owners frequently cited its smooth ride, quiet cabin, and user-friendly technology as standout features. The 2017 Sorento also excelled in long-term reliability, with fewer reports of major mechanical issues.
• Safety and Awards: The model earned a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, thanks to advanced safety features like forward collision warning and lane departure warning.

The 2017 Sorento represents a sweet spot for buyers seeking a reliable, feature-rich SUV at a reasonable price point.

2019 Kia Sorento: A family-friendly update

The 2019 Kia Sorento received a mid-cycle refresh, incorporating meaningful updates that elevated its appeal. This model year combined comfort, technology, and reliability in a package that resonated with families.

• Notable Updates: Kia updated the exterior design with a more modern grille and revised LED lighting. Inside, the infotainment system received enhancements, and additional driver-assistance features became standard on more trims.
• Powertrain Options: The 2.4L four-cylinder engine remained the base choice, but the V6 option was updated for better fuel efficiency and smoother operation. A new eight-speed automatic transmission improved both performance and economy.
• Why It Stands Out: The 2019 Sorento excelled in offering value. Its standard three-row seating and ample cargo space made it a standout in the midsize SUV category. Owners praised its smooth ride and comfortable interior for long journeys.
• Reliability: This model year avoided major mechanical problems, earning it high reliability ratings from organizations like J.D. Power and Consumer Reports.

The 2019 Sorento’s combination of modern features and dependable performance makes it a favorite among families.

2020 Kia Sorento: The modern marvel

The 2020 Kia Sorento built on the strengths of its predecessor, offering a refined driving experience and cutting-edge technology. As the final model year of the third generation, it represents the peak of Kia’s design and engineering efforts for this era.

• Key Features: The 2020 Sorento included a standard touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone integration, advanced safety features, and premium options like ventilated seats and a surround-view camera.
• Performance: Buyers could choose between the efficient 2.4L engine or the robust 3.3L V6, both paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The V6 option continued to impress with its towing capacity and smooth power delivery.
• Why It Stands Out: Owners frequently highlighted its low maintenance costs, reliable performance, and high resale value. The 2020 Sorento also provided a quiet and comfortable ride, making it a great choice for daily commutes and road trips.
• Safety: Kia’s suite of advanced safety technologies, including blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control, came standard on higher trims, further boosting its appeal.

For those seeking a modern, reliable SUV with all the bells and whistles, the 2020 Sorento is hard to beat.

The Kia Sorento has proven itself as a dependable and versatile midsize SUV. From the rugged 2009 model to the feature-rich 2020 version, each of the years highlighted in this list offers a unique combination of reliability, performance, and value. Whether you prioritize off-road capability, family-friendly features, or modern technology, one of these model years is likely to meet your needs.

When shopping for a used Kia Sorento, it’s important to research the vehicle’s maintenance history and consider a pre-purchase inspection to ensure you’re getting a well-maintained model. With its strong track record of reliability and owner satisfaction, the Sorento remains a top choice for SUV drivers.