2008 Kia Sorento [ 2007 ]
Based on analysis of 22 Sorento reviews and test drives.
Kia Sorento - What the Auto Press Says
The 2008 Kia Sorento ranks 7 out of 27 Affordable Compact SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 22 published reviews and test drives of the Kia Sorento, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The Sorento ranks in the top half of its class for delivering good value on a midsize SUV with strong towing capacity and good safety ratings. However, it can't match the comfortable ride and fuel efficiency of others in its class.
Reviews are mixed for the 2008 Kia Sorento. While it offers a powerful engine with an impressive towing capacity, most reviewers feel that a rough ride detracts from its appeal. Still, the Sorento's affordable sticker price prompts BusinessWeek to note, "If you want an SUV with a peppy engine...the Kia may offer better value than any of its rivals." The Sorento remains relatively unchanged for 2008. The most notable addition is a new V6 engine for the base model.
The Sorento comes in two trims, LX or EX, with a choice of two four-wheel-drive systems.
- "The Sorento was very pleasant to live with for nearly two weeks and probably close to 2,000 miles." -- The Auto Channel
- "There are a lot of good SUVs on the market, but few that you'd call a bargain. This is one." -- U.S. News' Rick Newman
- "The Sorento is a traditional body-on-frame SUV with a fully boxed chassis, a live-axle rear suspension, and optional four-wheel drive with a conventional two-speed transfer case. All of this adds up to a rugged package designed for the demands of serious off-road driving." -- Car and Driver
Sorento Performance - 6.9 (Mediocre)
The 2008 Kia Sorento offers good acceleration for its class, but most reviewers find the ride uncomfortable. Consequently, the Sorento's performance ranks in the middle of its segment. "The Sorento is surprisingly sporty," says BusinessWeek. "The engine has a definite throb when you accelerate hard, and the manual-shifting mode adds to the fun of driving it." Continue with our full Performance review to learn about the Sorento's excellent towing capacity and capable four-wheel drive option. continue
Sorento Exterior - 8.5 (Very Good)
The 2008 Kia Sorento ranks near the top of its class for its exterior styling. U.S. News' Rick Newman deems it "Hot" and adds, "The Sorento is sleek and modern without looking goofy." Continue with our full Exterior review to learn why one reviewer compares the Sorento's look to a Mercedes-Benz, or check out our Photo Gallery to see it for yourself. continue
Sorento Interior - 7.6 (Good)
The 2008 Kia Sorento's cabin ranks in the top half of its class and earns praise for interior quality, spaciousness and an upscale feel. "The Sorento's interior is tasteful and, for the most part, well-made," concludes BusinessWeek. Continue with our full Interior review to learn why reviewers have mixed opinions on the Sorento's cargo areas, or check out the interior photos. continue
Sorento Safety - 9.5 (Excellent)
The 2008 Kia Sorento does extremely well in federal government crash tests. BusinessWeek calls the Sorento's safety "tip top." Continue with our full Safety review to learn how the Sorento doesn't nearly as fare as well in crash tests conducted by the insurance industry. continue
Sorento Reliability - 4.0 (Mediocre)
The 2008 Kia Sorento reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). The Sorento comes with impressive warranties, including a five-year/60,000-mile basic warranty. Continue with our full Reliability review to learn about the Sorento's lengthy powertrain warranty. continue