Consumer Reports:
New
REPORT CARD
Highs: Off-road ability, controls, towing capacity, interior quality, long warranty.
Lows: Agility, ride, fuel economy.
The Sorento is priced competitively with many small SUVs, even though it's larger than most of its competitors. It's a body-on-frame truck powered by a 3.5-liter V6 from Hyundai. Acceleration is quite spirited and the engine sounds civilized, but fuel economy is poor. The interior is fairly roomy, with good fit and finish. With its low-range gearing and ample ground clearance, the Sorento is competent off-road. The ride is stiff and handling is clumsy though ultimately secure. Reliability has dropped to below average.
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Used
Overview: The Sorento is in the small-SUV class. It's larger than the old Sportage, as well as most of its competitors. It's an old-style body-on-frame truck. The Sorento is powered by a 3.5-liter, 192-hp engine from Hyundai, Kia's owner. Acceleration is quite spirited, but fuel economy is abysmal. With its low-range gearing, the Sorento is competent off-road, but the stiff ride is annoying and fatiguing. Handling is clumsy, and the rear axle easily hops on washboard surfaces. A high level of equipment for the price are advantages. Reliability has been spotty.
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Over all, it gets bad grades. A vehicle to avoid.