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About the Kia Sorento
AI-generatedThe Kia Sorento is a large seven-seat SUV that has built a strong reputation for practicality, value for money, and an impressive warranty. Available in the UK since 2002, the Sorento has evolved through four generations, with each iteration becoming more refined and car-like while maintaining excellent towing capabilities and spacious interiors. The current model offers a choice of diesel, petrol, and hybrid powertrains, making it a versatile option for families requiring serious space and versatility. Competing against models like the Skoda Kodiaq and Nissan X-Trail, the Sorento stands out with Kia's industry-leading seven-year warranty and generous standard equipment levels. While earlier models were more utilitarian, recent generations have embraced premium materials and advanced technology, making the Sorento a credible alternative to more expensive European rivals. The seven-seat configuration is genuinely usable, unlike some competitors where the third row is suitable only for children.
Known Issues
Known Issues
Second Generation (XM)
2010-2015
- Dual mass flywheel failures on diesel models, causing juddering and expensive repairs (£800-£1,200)
- DPF blockages on diesel engines, particularly on vehicles used for short journeys
- Turbocharger failures on 2.2 CRDi engines at higher mileages
- Front suspension bushes wearing prematurely, leading to knocking noises
- Air conditioning compressor failures
Third Generation (UM)
2015-2020
- Injector seal failures on 2.2 CRDi diesel engines causing oil contamination and potential engine damage
- EGR valve carbon buildup leading to performance issues and warning lights
- AdBlue system faults preventing engine start
- Transmission shudder on automatic gearbox models during low-speed manoeuvres
- Panoramic sunroof drainage issues causing water ingress into cabin
Fourth Generation (MQ4)
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Running Costs
Running Costs
Annual Fuel
£1,800-£2,400
Insurance Group
20-28
Average Service
£350-£450
Cost Calculator
Typical Prices
£32,000 - £42,000
£26,000 - £35,000
£20,000 - £28,000
£8,000 - £13,000
Pros & Cons
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Genuinely spacious seven-seat configuration with usable third row
- Industry-leading seven-year, 100,000-mile warranty providing excellent peace of mind
- Strong towing capacity of up to 2,500kg across most variants
- Generous standard equipment levels across all trim levels
- Comfortable ride quality suitable for long-distance family travel
- Good build quality with premium-feeling interior materials in recent models
Cons
- Not as engaging to drive as some European rivals like the Skoda Kodiaq
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Best & Worst Years
Best & Worst Years
Best Years
- 2019 - Final year of third generation with all issues resolved, benefiting from updates and improvements while still offering excellent value on the used market
- 2021 - First full production year of the much-improved fourth generation with hybrid options, modern technology, and refined driving dynamics, still covered by comprehensive warranty
- 2023 - Latest models with all software updates applied, improved hybrid system efficiency, and full seven-year warranty remaining
Worst Years
- 2015 - First year of third generation with teething problems including injector seal issues and transmission concerns that were later addressed
- 2011 - Common dual mass flywheel and DPF issues on diesel models, with many examples now at higher mileages where expensive repairs become more likely
Buying Checklist
Engine6 items
- Check for white or milky residue on oil filler cap indicating injector seal failure or head gasket issues
- Listen for dual mass flywheel rattle when starting and stopping the engine
- Ensure no excessive smoke from exhaust, particularly on diesel models during hard acceleration
- Verify DPF regeneration cycles complete successfully with no warning lights
- Check for oil leaks around turbocharger and engine block on higher-mileage diesels
Did You Know?
Did You Know?
The Sorento name comes from the Italian coastal town of Sorrento, continuing Kia's tradition of using European place names for its models.
The third-generation Sorento was the first Kia to be designed entirely at the company's European design centre in Frankfurt, Germany.
Kia Sorentos have been used extensively by the United Nations and various military organizations due to their durability and load-carrying capabilities.
The fourth-generation Sorento shares its platform with the Genesis GV70, Kia's sister luxury brand SUV.
Alternatives to Consider
Skoda Kodiaq
More engaging to drive with better fuel economy, though slightly less spacious and without Kia's lengthy warranty
Nissan X-Trail
7/10Similar size and practicality with strong reliability record, though interior feels less premium than latest Sorento
Peugeot 5008
More stylish interior design and better handling, but tighter third-row space and smaller boot capacity
Hyundai Santa Fe
7/10Sister car sharing engines and platform with similar warranty, offering slightly different styling and specification options
Owner Tips
- 1If buying a diesel model, ensure it has a full service history and has been driven regularly on longer journeys to prevent DPF issues
- 2Check for oil contamination on 2.2 CRDi engines (milky appearance on oil cap) which indicates injector seal failure
- 3Listen carefully for dual mass flywheel issues - juddering at low revs or rattling when starting/stopping the engine
- 4Verify that all software updates have been applied, especially on 2020-2022 models where infotainment glitches were common
- 5Inspect panoramic sunroof drains for blockages by pouring water into drain channels - blocked drains cause water ingress
- 6Test all seven seats for operation and check condition of third-row seats which are often unused and well-preserved
- 7On hybrid models, ensure the 12V battery is healthy as a weak battery can cause multiple warning lights and system faults
- 8Check AdBlue system functionality on post-2016 diesel models - refill tank and ensure no warning lights appear
Check a specific Kia Sorento
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