Kia Sorento III (UM) (2014 – 2020)

Reliability score : 6.5/10

Kia Sorento III (UM) - A Leap in Refinement Overshadowed by Petrol Engine Woes The third-generation Kia Sorento (UM) marked a significant step upmarket for the Korean brand. Introduced in late 2014 (as a 2016 model year in North America), it offered a much more premium interior, improved NVH (Noise, Vibration, and Harshness) levels, and a stretched wheelbase providing better third-row space. A mid-cycle facelift in 2018 brought subtle exterior tweaks, upgraded infotainment, and a new 8-speed automatic transmission for select engines. While the Sorento UM is highly regarded for its comfort, practicality, and value, its reliability heavily depends on the chosen powertrain. This report focuses primarily on the petrol (gasoline) engines, which dominated the North American, Middle Eastern, and

✅ Strengths

Excellent ride quality and cabin insulation (NVH)
Spacious interior with a highly usable third row (7-seater)
High-quality interior materials for the price point
Intuitive and responsive UVO infotainment system
Strong towing capability with the V6 and Diesel engines
Outstanding reliability of the 2.2 CRDi and 3.3 V6 engines

⚠️ Weaknesses

Catastrophic engine failure rates on 2.4L and 2.0T Theta II engines
High fuel consumption on V6 models
Heavy curb weight affects handling agility
Halogen headlights on lower trims offer poor visibility
Thick D-pillars create significant blind spots

🎯 Verdict

Final Verdict The Kia Sorento III (UM) is a tale of two extremes. If you are looking at a model equipped with the 2.4L GDI or 2.0L T-GDI 4-cylinder petrol engines, the verdict is a strict 'AVOID' due to the high probability of catastrophic engine failure, unless the engine has already been replaced by Kia and carries a transferable lifetime warranty. However, if you opt for the 3.3L V6 petrol or the 2.2L CRDi diesel, the Sorento transforms into an excellent, highly recommended family SUV. These powertrains are robust, capable, and perfectly suited to the heavy chassis. Ensure thorough maintenance records are present, check the blind-spot sensors, and you will have a premium-feeling, practical 7-seater at a very competitive price.