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Used 2003 Kia Sorento Consumer Reviews

4.7 out of 5 stars
326 reviews

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Me in a KIA?

Rob C, 04/18/2003
2003 Kia Sorento EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

After having several SUV's in the past, like the Jeep Grand Cherokee, Ford Explorer, and Suburu Forester, I thought it was unlikely that I would have a Kia Sorento. The impressive styling led me to the test drive... GOOD LOOKS, FEATURES, FUN TO DRIVE AND VALUE! Needless to say, it is parked in my driveway.

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4.63 out of 5 stars

What a Difference

Burntbyford, 09/16/2003
2003 Kia Sorento LX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I have to admit that the Kia was not my initial first choice for an SUV. I actually bought a Ford Escape in April because I had not heard of the Sorrento at that time. Unfortunately(or fortunately)at 4 months old my Escape's engine caught fire due to an engine (fuel injector) malfunction. The Escape was totalled in less than 20 minutes. Now I have the more comfortable and more reliable(they don't blow up)Kia Sorrento. The Kia is 150% better than the Escape and it cost less!! I guess I should be glad that Ford made such a poor quality product because now I am happier with my KIA!! :)

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Excellent SUV for the money!

ajh, 04/19/2003
2003 Kia Sorento EX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I was hesitant to buy a SUV with a KIA nameplate on it at first, but after test driving the competition and seeing their MSRP's, there was no competition for the features and price plus the 10/100k powertrain warranty. After driving it for a couple of weeks I know I made the right choice. Do yourself a favor and buy one before the word gets out and hence the price increases!.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

This is a great car!!!!!

Pzukes, 01/21/2003
2003 Kia Sorento EX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I got my Sorento EX 4WD luxery package retailing for just under $28,500 about a month ago. This car is an excellent vehicle. I had no problem paying this price because i have heard nothing but good news about this car. Kia - you have done a great job in designing and building a great vehicle. Now just put some effort in building your other cars better. I love my Sorento. GREAT JOB KIA!!!

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5 out of 5 stars

First Time Kia Owner

BBallDad, 07/18/2003
2003 Kia Sorento EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

After looking at many SUVs on the market the Sorrento is by far the best buy for your buck. So far (knock wood) we have had no problems and the gas mileage is improving (albeit still slightly under 20 mpg on the highway). The wife and kids love the car especially the sunroof and I love the payments!

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3.38 out of 5 stars

Pretty Good SUV

Walkers, 05/02/2003
2003 Kia Sorento EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Like the veh except the ride. First off the suspension is too stiff. Second there is a high frequency viabration over 60 that drives me nuts. you can feel it in the seats, steering wheel and see it in the mirror. Also there is a roaring sound along with the vibration. I have had the tires balanced and checked for round. No luck. I took it to Kia. They changed the drive shaft. No luck. The factory rep, Great guy, had a engineer come from the factory. The drive shaft was changed again. No luck. The alignment was checked and was ok. They are now going to replace the gear box. If that don't work I get a new vehicle.

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5 out of 5 stars

Can't believe I bought a Kia

Domestic Engineer, 11/23/2002
2003 Kia Sorento EX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

My hubby is 6'2" and I'm 5'. This is to be my vehicle but we needed something my hubby could drive comfortably and also have leg room in the back seat. We were so surprised by the roominess in the cabin. The drive is great and the price was fantastic. Love the exterior also. It drives really smoothly and has plenty of power for both of us. After we purchased it my 'mocho' husband said "I can't believe I bought a Kia". We thought it would be cheaply designed but were very pleasantly surprised by the ammenities included. Sales experience was also great.

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4.38 out of 5 stars

Satisfied User

boombats, 05/04/2003
2003 Kia Sorento EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Very satisfied ,wanted a 4 Runner but bought instead for cost.Didn't want a wimpy crossover SUV because of lack of real 4w/d.Excellent fit & finish in & out. Great styling,nice interior.Ride a little choppy but its a truck.Easy to drive and fun.Power is good but sure would like the 245 h/p like Honda.Cruises great & no problem passing or entering highway.

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4.63 out of 5 stars

new toy

msweetpea1975, 07/20/2003
2003 Kia Sorento LX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

fun to drive, little much on gas but about the same as all suv.

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4.63 out of 5 stars

kia review

pete tynning, 05/14/2003
2003 Kia Sorento EX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Although milage is not great, the tade off is the heavy latter frame construction for safety. easy to drive, with a tight turning radious. I like the large size tires for this mid size suv which has good off road capibility.

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3.75 out of 5 stars

Test it at highway speeds

RC of NC, 01/26/2003
2003 Kia Sorento EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I really love "most" everything about my Sorento, except one issue the dealership has yet to have corrected. It has a vibration at highway speeds. I first noticed this right after I bought it. The dealerships response: 1) It's too new, we don't know what to do about it. 2) It has 16" wheels that are difficult to balance. 3) It is a truck, we don't feel anything out of the ordinary. 4) The drive shaft is out 180 degrees. I go to have the oil changed at a different KIA dealership and they notice the vibration right away, and are contacing the factory for assistance, thinking it is the rearend.

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4.5 out of 5 stars

Shaky over 70 mph

Kia Family, 05/01/2003
2003 Kia Sorento EX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

When driving around town, it is very comfortable and performs well. However, I noticed since the night we brought it home, that if you go anywhere over 70 mph, the truck actually begins to shake. However, after reading some articles on the truck, I've seen similiar complaints. The Sorento is a very nice looking SUV, that is so similiar in looks to the Lexus 300, it makes you want to park next to them and laugh at how much more they paid for their vehicle. I've had my Kia Sedona for almost a year, and I absolutely love it!

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4.88 out of 5 stars

minor improvements

Tom Herron, 07/30/2003
2003 Kia Sorento LX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Best vechile on the road for the money.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Great Value

Spursfan, 05/07/2003
2003 Kia Sorento EX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Alot of SUV for the money. I agree with the main review that it could use a bit more punch at take off, but once you are rolling, you better watch your speed.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Fun to drive

August, 07/23/2003
2003 Kia Sorento LX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I love the Kia Sorento.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Very Nice SUV

Stringmusic, 01/15/2003
2003 Kia Sorento EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Great suv, fun to drive and loaded. This compares to the Lexus and Acura at a much smaller sticker price.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Great ride

newschaser, 01/30/2003
2003 Kia Sorento EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

The Sorento rides and handles much better than the Xterra (which I was considering). The 4WD has gotten me out of sugar sand several times already. I put a vehicle through its paces as it is used for work, and the Sorento has met all challenges it has faced so far. From orange groves to woods to beaches to city streets, the Sorento is equally at home. I an getting about 17 mpg with mostly stop and go driving.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Excellent Value!

Gia, 07/23/2003
2003 Kia Sorento EX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

What a great SUV for the money! Hugs the road, quick and responsive, easy to drive and comfortable. Lots of bonus storage & cup holders. Despite hearing concerns about the MPG, I've been averaging 17, which is fine with me. I love the exterior styling and the luxury touches. The cargo room is deceivingly large - I call it my "clown car". I never thought I'd be so thrilled to own a KIA! Why pay $15K more for a comparable SUV???

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4.88 out of 5 stars

3 months and still thrilled !

dlb14frost, 01/31/2003
2003 Kia Sorento EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Must say I'm VERY pleased with my Sorento EX 4X4. Vehicle has the luxury package but no ABS or load leveling and so far haven't needed either. Its been colder and snowier than average here and its handled well in the snow conditions. I have to admitt its probably been the most fun to drive vehicle I've ever had. Used to drive Subaru Outback and Forester but I like the Kia better. I was a bit reluctant to try a Kia but glad I made the switch !

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5 out of 5 stars

excelent

tony lucas, 11/13/2002
2003 Kia Sorento EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I love this korean suv, because it is a really affordable luxury vehicle. Looks like a Lexus, but a half the price. extended warranty is very important

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4.38 out of 5 stars

Something to think about.

dbgiles, 04/04/2003
2003 Kia Sorento EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Why would I look at a KIA? That was my first reaction when it was suggested. . I started doing some research on the KIA Sorento (of course begining with Edmunds).I couldn't believe all the favorable reviews. I then test drove it and it was very smooth and for the money you pay the features and warranty can't be beat.When the only downside to a vehicle is that it's gas mileage is about 10% worse than other models that is not at all much to complain about. if serious about purchasing neg. via the internet and you can usually get your best deal. I got mine that way for $200 over invoice well below even the Edmunds TMV.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Hard to beat for the money

sskrzysik, 01/19/2003
2003 Kia Sorento EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

My wife and I searched far and long for a mid sized SUV that could take us up the mountains for skiing. After looking at just about every competitor we found the Sorento the best in every category. Our Sorento is loaded with every option except load leveling. After two months of driving, we truly are happy with our purchase. Being built on a truck frame makes you feel like you own the road without being the biggest out there. The interior quality is superb. Tons of read passenger space!!! Only problem has been a few minor rattles. Haggle with the dealers like we did, don't pay over invoice!! Everyone in the market for a SUV should look at the Sorento.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Just Purchased

queenstim, 08/08/2003
2003 Kia Sorento EX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

The Dealership was great, and the vehicle feels much more expensive then it is.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Best $ for $ car in the WORLD!

boconn03, 05/14/2003
2003 Kia Sorento EX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I just rolled 8000 miles on my Sorento and absolutely love it. I'm happy to report after 3 major road trips and daily driving ZERO problems. Fuel mileage could be better but has improved since broken in. If you're looking for an SUV look no further.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Very Happy and Impressed!

LouB, 02/02/2003
2003 Kia Sorento EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

After purchasing and driving this vechicle I am throughly impressed. The ride and attributes of this vechicle are amazing considering the price. Attention to detail from exterior design to interior detail are first rate. That together with the worry free warranty give the added satifaction of a value based purchase that not only performs well but looks good doing it.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Great SUV

Bob JOnes, 02/19/2003
2003 Kia Sorento EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I've only had my Sorento for about 3 weeks and I already have over 3000 miles on it. I was skeptical about buying a Kia but so far I am pleasatly surprised. It is a great SUV for the money. Fun to drive and looks good too.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

my sorento

mike &tina, 08/06/2003
2003 Kia Sorento EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

we have had our sorento for almost a month we are very happy with it i have had one problem with it the seat fabric on the drivers seat got all wrinkled other we are happy with it

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4.63 out of 5 stars

Inexpensive Luxury

dsnykng, 06/15/2003
2003 Kia Sorento EX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

You must test a Kia sorento , if your looking for a midsize SUV. I am driving a 2wd EX w/luxury package. I was looking to drive a 4wd, but this was the interior and amenities I wanted. Handles with ease. Very comfortable, everything at your finger tips. Would you like a luxury vehicle?..and a Truck?.. This is it !!!

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5 out of 5 stars

Another new happy owner.

KIAguy, 09/09/2003
2003 Kia Sorento LX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Most SUVs I looked at were practical but really did not excite me. I liked the Lexus but it was too steep for me to justify. The KIA was a stand out. For 20 grand I'd feel foolish buying a Lexus. I really like the look and feel of the car from day one. And one month later this KIA continues to grow on me. This is my first new car and I feel really good about this car!

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4.75 out of 5 stars

A great value!

JCG, 04/08/2003
2003 Kia Sorento EX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

After owning other SUVs that cost far more, it was a pleasure to find the KIA Sorento - it's loaded with features, well made, fun to drive - and it comes at a very reasonable price!

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Best Bang for the Buck

dan01801, 05/26/2003
2003 Kia Sorento EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I did a ton of research looked at the "luxury" used suv's and for the same price I got the Luxury 03 Sorento with the great warrenty !!

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5 out of 5 stars

tons of fun

bablewis, 08/20/2003
2003 Kia Sorento EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

this suv has been tons of fun off road and on road it is classy but manly the options are far more than expected in a suv that you can buy for less than 25k greatttttttttttttt suv.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

A WHOLE NEW SUV

ivngrfs, 05/27/2003
2003 Kia Sorento LX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

It's just such a nice vehicle to have. Having an intimidating V6 engine that even impresses V8 owners it's quite fun. Plus having the freedom in mind that it is cover for 100000 or 5 years gives you an edge over other SUVs. All I can ask for in my Sorento is a sunroof. Unfortunetaly I was buried in negative equity with my RIO CINCO that I had to settle for the LX model with the nice rims on the EX, and the roof rack. It's still a very nice vehicle. I really recommended for all new shoppers. It just takes the SUV into another time zone. I have people advising me to put 20s on it or if that if it's a LEXUS. WELL DONE KIA.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Sorento - The Best SUV On Earth

The Canucks, 02/02/2003
2003 Kia Sorento EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Love it! What a great value for the price. With the full option EXL package and EVERY Luxury imaginable, it is thousands less than GRAND CHEROKEE or MDX. Comfortable, stylish and very attractive from every angle.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

excellent quality for the price

Rick Rosenberger, 05/31/2003
2003 Kia Sorento LX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I don"t think you can find a better SUV For the price with a 10 year 100,000 mile warranty. I have a black one and it looks very classy. I'm stopped in parking lots by curious people wanting to know how I like it and that it looks like a Lexus or some other suv.The exceleration is great and its fun to drive.I've had it on very muddy norther Michigan back roads and the 4x4 is great.So Iguess I'll give it high marks so far.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

I love my Kia !!

Coleygirl, 08/27/2003
2003 Kia Sorento LX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I love my Kia Sorento. It's very comfortable to ride in and there is alot of passager room. The Sorento has plenty of storage compartments. The seats make long rides enjoyable. My best friend bought a Ford Escape the day before I bought my suv and it has been in the auto shop 3 times already. I really love my Kia Sorento.

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5 out of 5 stars

great

k, 05/31/2003
2003 Kia Sorento EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

this is an outstanding car

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4.75 out of 5 stars

class act....

boats, 12/06/2002
2003 Kia Sorento EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

well just got it 3 days ago no complaints did the research. think kia did a great job

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Sorento Rocks!

PeggySue, 05/31/2003
2003 Kia Sorento LX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I owned a Sportage before buying my Sorento. I enjoyed my Sportage very much but couldn't wait until Kia came out with a 6 cylinder SUV. People stop me all the time and comment on my Sorento and ask millions of question. I bought the LX and would be it again in a heartbeat. My son the Ford guy absolutely adores my Sorento and thinks the power rocks for a 6 cylinder and he owns a big 8 cylinder SUV.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

A Must Drive SUV

mysorento, 09/11/2003
2003 Kia Sorento EX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I was not sure about purchasing a SUV with the KIA name plate. You've got to at least go for a test drive.The Sorento is everything the ads say and more. A lot of fun to drive and everyone notices the Sorento when you drive it.

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5 out of 5 stars

Amazing ... Love this car

calhmmr, 06/01/2003
2003 Kia Sorento LX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I first saw and drove this car in Seoul Korea as a rental and fell in love with it as well as Korea. It felt like a safe and quality concious place and so did the vehicle. I absolutely love it. They have a really kool grille badge for the Korean Market. I am surprised it did not make it to the US with that badge. Mercedes and BMW watch out for this one...

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4.88 out of 5 stars

My First SUV

ktoken, 02/04/2003
2003 Kia Sorento EX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I just bought my Sorento EX a couple of days ago but I am already very familar with the vehicle. It is very "user friendly". This is my first SUV so I am rather enjoying the view from up high. I went from a car with 260 hp to my Kia and I don't really miss the power. The Kia's engine is very responsive. It rides like a good sturdy car. You don't get beat to death going over bumps, etc. The turning radius is excellent. Very easy to turn, park, etc.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Outstanding!

Irish Kat, 04/10/2003
2003 Kia Sorento EX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Prior to shopping for a vehicle, I did quite a bit of internet research, and had narrowed my search down to 3 SUV's; the first one I rejected because front seat area just wasn't user-friendly. I checked out the Sorento....WOW! Everything about it is perfect, from the first time I opened the door to parking it in my driveway. Now when I'm driving down the freeway, I not only "look good".....I look SMART!!!

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4.63 out of 5 stars

Great SUV for the $$$

CPhil1919, 01/12/2003
2003 Kia Sorento EX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I love it. It's great to drive. Both my wife and I love to just ride around in it. All the extra storage is great. The built in garage door opener is great.

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5 out of 5 stars

I own one

michbostn, 09/14/2003
2003 Kia Sorento LX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I have had 2 explorers before and a mazda SUV.I went looking for another and decided that I being tall, could easily fit into this. My conclusion after 6 months is I don't see why you would NOT buy this. I have so many people ask me what is is since they like the lines. My frinds are buying them.

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4.63 out of 5 stars

Great vehicle, Poor Gas Mileage

Elijah Martin, 04/09/2003
2003 Kia Sorento EX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Great styling! Beautiful. I love it! I just wish it got better gas mileage. Many standard features that I wanted... great! Handles like a dream!

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4.63 out of 5 stars

Fun and Comfort!

Loving It !!, 09/14/2003
2003 Kia Sorento EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I'm a 1st time SUV buyer and I don't think I'll ever buy another car again. I am very pleased with this vehicle's performance. I feel safe and in control when driving it. It's fun and comfortable. The options are excellent for the price. Who would ever think you could walk out of a dealership with a fully loaded SUV for under $30,000??? I was hesitant about Kia at first, but with a 10 year warranty, I'll take my chances. So far, so good!

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4.88 out of 5 stars

They did this one right

bbigno, 04/11/2003
2003 Kia Sorento LX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

In the past 3 months I have put over 8000 miles on my KIA, and every one was smooth. This vehicale was much more than I had expected. If the future continues like the past three months have, I will be a happy KIA owner.

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4.5 out of 5 stars

Yes, I bought a Kia!

RRG, 06/24/2003
2003 Kia Sorento EX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Yes, I bought a Kia! At first I was nervous about doing so, but after months of research and test driving other SUVs on the market, it became obviously clear that the Sorento was the SUV for us (the warranty helped ease my mind about buying a Kia as well. I love the way it looks (I call it my generic Lexus) and with the luxury package on the EX model, it has all the features you need in a vehicle. It rides very nice and the seats are very comfortable, it is an all-around great vehicle. We've only had it for 3 weeks, but already have put on more than 1,000 miles and it seems to be doing great.

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4.25 out of 5 stars

david's sorento

cybergasm, 06/24/2003
2003 Kia Sorento EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

so far with only 3k miles showing on the clock it has a flawless vehicle to drive so far. like the handling, hate the steering tho too light all the time absolutly love the stereo system in it too.

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