The third-generation Kia Sorento (UM) marks a true move upmarket for the Korean manufacturer. Gone is the rustic SUV; this iteration positions itself as a large family SUV (available in 5 or 7 seats) with performance close to the premium segment. Based on a platform shared with the Hyundai Santa Fe, it offers remarkable ride comfort, excellent soundproofing, and rich technological features. A facelift occurred in 2018, bringing a new 8-speed automatic gearbox, aesthetic touches, and enhanced driving aids. While the European market was almost exclusively dominated by the excellent 2.2 CRDi diesel, North American, Asian, and Middle Eastern markets benefited from a wide range of gasoline engines. It is on these latter engines that maximum vigilance is required, due to major reliability issues
The Kia Sorento III is an excellent family SUV, spacious, comfortable, and well-equipped. However, the choice of engine entirely dictates the buying verdict. If you are looking for a gasoline model, absolutely avoid the 2.4 GDI and 2.0 T-GDI 4-cylinders (Theta II) unless the engine has been recently replaced by Kia with an extended warranty. Their design flaws are too risky. Turn to the 3.3L or 3.5L V6, which is very smooth and generally reliable, although you will have to accept gargantuan fuel consumption. Paradoxically, for this heavy SUV, the best engine remains the 2.2 CRDi diesel, which stands out for its reliability, torque, and relative fuel efficiency.