Used 2003 Kia Sorento Consumer Reviews
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Fun Car to Drive and Easy to Maintain.
mikesay22, 07/14/2014
2003 Kia Sorento EX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
40 of 40 people found this review helpful
I bought this car as a third owner in 2011 with 138000 miles. The car was poorly maintained. Thats what I got for the price I bought it for. But I am so glad I bought this car. I had to change the brakes and tires, some bulbs, oil change, and I had to change the spark plugs. The car started running like new. I had no major problems with the car, just maintenance. I had my check engine light on for a couple of months but later on I found out it was because of a faulty throttle position sensor which was easy to change. After that, the check engine light went away till this day. I had a A/C leak but I managed to find the leak and fixed it myself.
A workhorse not without a few issues
raymoto, 12/19/2014
updated 01/06/2020
2003 Kia Sorento EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
36 of 36 people found this review helpful
I bought my 2003 Kia Sorento EX 4x4 automatic brand new in 2003. I was the original owner and as of this posting (2017) had $130K. I've since sold the Sorento in favor of a Toyota 4Runner because the new Sorento is no longer a body-on-frame truck platform. The new Sorento is a unibody car platform. I wanted something more rugged and durable and the 4Runner is a true SUV. I took great care of the Sorento which is the main reason it lasted 130k miles. The engine, transmission, and suspension, steering have been solid as a rock. Even after 130k miles, all the rubber suspension bushings looked like new condition! I've only had a few issues. The transfer case stopped shifting into 4x4 due to lack of use, but still operated in 4x2 mode. One engine sensor needed replacing, along with normal hoses, and the fuel temperature senor and thermostat which I replaced myself. It also needed new shocks, which is normal for the age. (Get Bilstein shocks, they are the BEST shocks!). Other than that it has been a workhorse, and reliable. The engine has considerable low end torque so it appears fast for 190 HP. It is spacious inside, with plenty of cargo room. With the proper wet traction tires the Sorento feels very safe and controlled in the rain. Without proper winter tires it is terrible in snow and ice. As a used vehicle the first generation Sorento is a great bargain. Just make sure the timing belt and water pump have been replaced. The BIG Achilles heel for the Sorento is the CRANK SHAFT PULLEY BOLT. There is a recall due to it being weak. If it breaks or timing belt breaks, either can destroy the engine. There is a new, stronger crank shaft bolt replacement. MAKE SURE this has been replaced and if not sure than factor that into your after purchase expense, and replace it right away! If considering a Kia Sorento of this era, talk to Kia service to determine the cost to replace the timing belt, water pump, crank shaft pulley bolt, and drive belts if they have not already been replaced recently. Talk to Kia about that crank shaft pulley bolt recall. UPDATE: six months after I sold the Sorrento - After driving my 4Runner for a while I now realize how stiff and harsh the Sorrento suspension springs really were. With the first generation Sorento you will feel every bump, every pothole, every imperfection in the road. However, the trade-off with a tight suspension is that you will gain precise, controlled steering. The Sorrento does not wander or weave and tracks straight on the road even in a torrential downpour. If you want safety and handling more than ride comfort then the first generation Sorento is for you. I must say though that the new Bilstein shocks that I installed enhanced the precise accurate steering but did not compromise ride quality. The very stout and stiff stock Sorento suspension springs are what causes the harsher ride. In contrast my 4Runner has less precise steering than the Sorento, however the the trade-off is the ride quality in the 4Runner is smooth and comfortable. So it's a trade-off with vehicles - Precise, tight handling and stiff suspension with a harsher ride, or pillowy soft ride and mushy handling. Some newer vehicles have what is called "Active Handling Suspension" that solves this issue and combines great handling and comfortable ride, but those systems are expensive to fix. So, In conclusion, a well-cared-for, first-generation Kia Sorrento is a good vehicle choice - Just know the issues, get a pre-purchase inspection, get any issue fixed, keep up the regular maintainance and you should have a good vehicle for years to come.
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pleasantly surprised.
lhasadaddy, 08/23/2013
2003 Kia Sorento LX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
23 of 23 people found this review helpful
This Sorrento was a replacement for my previous vehicle. It was used and abused. Previous owner did no maintenance on it. Spent a couple of hours under the hood cleaning MAF sensor, throttle body. Had my buddy replace the oil and all the tires. Not to mention complete brake fluid change( no charge for any of it. For which I am eternally grateful) it now runs like a champ. Roomy , comfortable, fun, and a pleasure to drive. Still needs to have a few little things done. The fact it ran as good as it did considering what wasn't done in it 255,000 miles of service is testament to its build quality. Called KIA about recalls. Booked in same day.
My 2003 Kia Sorento Best Car I ever have had.
sorento2012, 03/03/2011
2003 Kia Sorento EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
28 of 29 people found this review helpful
Minor problems like horn, clock not working. Had to replace the U-joint front and back. Everything else is fine and working. Minor leak in sunroof, was adjusted. Paint on side mirrors came off and the same for the tail hatch. Made out of plastic.
Great Car for the $$
Leslie, 02/03/2009
2003 Kia Sorento EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
25 of 26 people found this review helpful
I bought the Sorento for my company car and 227,000 miles later am amazed at how it's held up. No it's not a Lexus, but with only minor problems in 5 years I am looking to buy another one. I have owned GM, Ford and Toyota cars and this Korean one has been by far the least trouble and the overall best ride. I have recommended it to many who were skeptical when I purchased it!
Hard on the wallet
Tesha, 10/03/2010
2003 Kia Sorento EX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
11 of 12 people found this review helpful
Gorgeous on the outside. Useless on the inside. Of the hood, that is. Ran great until I hit 100,000 miles. Since, my power steering, fly wheel, transmission and ac have went out, not to mention a few other minor problems. I will never recommend this vehicle to anyone. I have taken great care of this vehicle, keeping everything up to date and new but it has not returned the favor. It would be nice if the vehicle was as cheap as its quality.
Most car for the Money
Dick H, 02/02/2010
2003 Kia Sorento EX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
I installed a higher cranking amp battery and haven't replaced any lights since. At 99400 miles the rear U-joint caused vibration at higher speeds then at low speed. It was replaced fully under warranty. In fact, KIA replaced the total driveshaft and support bushing with all related parts free. These reports stating bad warranty are incorrect. KIA is very good! Another car with the same equipment would cost over $30,000.00 compared to $20,000.00 for a new 09 Sorento. Great car fun to drive sure feeling great pickup. Not easy on gas though. Only draw back.
Warranty is just a Word
UnhappyOwner, 12/21/2009
2003 Kia Sorento LX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
Beware of the warranty, Kia really does not cover much at all. 10-Year 100,000 mile warranty really means that anytime you have a problem the dealer will attempt to explain why it is not covered. The warranty is garbage. Do not let the warranty enter into your decision to purchase this vehicle because the warranty is a big joke.
Great Vehicle so far
chitown-bob, 10/17/2002
2003 Kia Sorento EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
I love this SUV! Bought it 2 weeks ago and so far so good. It's sporty looks bring to mind the Lexus RX300 without the price tag. I have been pleasantly surprised by the handling and ride. The engine is not as responsive as I would like, but is adequate. The interior is well thought out and I am very comfortable with the layout. I have an EX loaded with the Luxury package, ABS, Load Leveling, etc. Considering the price (roughly 27K), the price is untouchable by comparible models (even with rebates).
Great Little Truck
SMB, 09/13/2010
2003 Kia Sorento LX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
8 of 9 people found this review helpful
I bought this truck because of Nebraska Winters, its 4WD is what i needed to get through. I've NEVER had an issue with this truck. Only thing i've done is replace the battery and a blinker bulb! With reg oil changes i've had zero engine trouble. I bought it with 47,000 miles on it and am now at over 124,000 miles. It still runs like the day i bought it! I would recommend a Kia Sorento to anyone who is looking for a great 4WD. On highway travel i can get close to 27 MPG.
BEst Vehicle Made
Alex, 02/23/2010
2003 Kia Sorento EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
9 of 12 people found this review helpful
Vehicle is amazing in snow, I took this car up north where it proved to me the reliability of Korean 4x4 Engineering. Heavy Duty frame makes this car extremely stable being able to withstand any load of force. Driving is extremely smooth, feeling of complete control on the road.
Rides like a sedan
Marion, 09/04/2008
2003 Kia Sorento EX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I bought this car used and have been happy with it. It has the smoothest ride of a SUV I have ever experienced. The backseat is very roomy for a smaller SUV. The main annoyance I have with it is that it burns through lights like crazy. I am replacing bulbs about every 2 months. I have been pulled over for it also. It is hard to keep up with replacing the bulbs. Check your lights for proper working order on a daily basis.
The Korean Problems
Cooper Michael, 04/27/2016
2003 Kia Sorento LX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
9 of 13 people found this review helpful
This car/suv is the worst car i have ever owned, AC/fan/heating unit was replaced for 1100$ at 30,000, power steering went out at 34,000 and cost 800$, headlights go out every month and its hard and time consuming to replace, now the engine has a dropped valve with a bent camshaft at 72,000 miles. These cars love belts and timing belts THEY EAT THEM!!!!!!! this car gets the worst mpg. Its rattles a lot and it idles poorly. Also if you own a Sorento check your oil every 800 miles it eats it. when you put your foot to the floor it will stay in 4th gear at 5,000rpm stays at 88mph and when you go into semi-auto you can't up shift it is a 5 speed trans.
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Piece of Junk
changt82, 08/08/2010
2003 Kia Sorento EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
5 of 7 people found this review helpful
Second owner of this Kia sorento. Bought this car @ 53k only $9800.00 in 07' over a highlander and rav4 due to looks and price. I guess I got what I paid for. Within 2 months of purchase, you would have to say hell came with this car. First Climate control malfunctioned, then Windows power control, then one window power motor, then wiper motor assembly broke off, then rotors warping, then headlamp and brake lamp every other month, then Radiator fan gone out, the Ac compressor gone out, then now the car just wouldn't start anymore. Don"t ever buy a Kia, they are cheap and expensive the repair and maintenance.
Kia doesn't honor warranty
mikes, 12/11/2007
2003 Kia Sorento EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Had a 2003 Kia Sorento for 5 years. Initially had an issue with a leaking gasket that was fixed under warranty. 5 years later, the catalytic converter has failed and Kia won't cover even though it is within the warranty window. Kia immediately looks for fine print excuses to not honor the warranty. We are stuck with about $5000 in repairs to transfer case, catalytic converter, spark plugs, belts etc. Basically, left with a cheap throw away car.
Inherited it but Will Never Own Another
unkqty, 03/04/2017
updated 09/06/2018
2003 Kia Sorento EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
6 of 10 people found this review helpful
I worked as a mechanic for several years so have personally maintained my cars and those of my family for over 35 years. I was never enthusiastic about owning an off-make like Kia; however, we inherited one w/90k miles and thought we'd give it a try. Bottom line is that this vehicle has the highest cost of ownership of any car I have owned. I spent more on it in the first six months than on my '99 Civic over the entire 15 years - which I sold when this lump of um... "trash" came along. Listing of issues: brakes, electronics, alignment, brakes again, engine gaskets, primary electric, climate control, interior finishes. Had to replace all brake calipers and resurface/grind rotors, which lasted about 5k miles before they warped again (despite following recommended wheel torques; I think the rotors are made from flimsy, untempered sheet metal...). The braking system causes vehicle to steer poorly, requiring more effort, when slowing to turn into a driveway, parking lot, or intersection. Interior materials are cheap - the carpeting in cargo area split and zippers peeled away from rest of materials during routine cleaning/vacuuming. Both key fobs malfunctioned, running down the battery after cycling the door locks overnight. The radio is also a real treat. FM band picks up 5-10 stations in the area for about a mile before they fade out, while the AM band sounds like a Geiger counter in a fallout zone. Engine is designed such that oil remains against the gaskets in the upper end - which causes them to become brittle and shrink, which over time fills the interior with choking oily fumes. The plastic (non-repairable) inlet port on the radiator broke and required replacement. I have had to replace headlight bulbs twice (and no, I didn't touch the bulbs with bare hands). The engine coil packs began to blow - one after the other - over the course of a week, requiring replacement of the entire set, as well as associated components. The air conditioner compressor has begun to leak (the car is from Washington state so it wasn't used much) and has required specialized repair and sealing materials. This is just a partial list; however, I figure the cost in just materials over past year comes out to about $4 per mile - and that's not considering the abysmal fuel economy, which hovers between 15.5 and 17.5 - shocking b/c it's worse than an Escalade, Navigator, or Expedition. SO - I can say I am neither satisfied nor impressed by the performance, reliability or overall value of my '03 Kia Sorento. Trade-in value was less than amount spent on it but I was glad to get it gone. I will NEVER own another Kia.
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Big mistake
dswanson1, 04/11/2013
2003 Kia Sorento EX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
6 of 10 people found this review helpful
This was the worst vehicle choice ever!! We had it for 3 months and the radiator blew. Then all the window switches stopped working and the AC would not hold its charge. The transmission started going out when we hit 110,000 miles and when we traded it in, we only got $1500 for it. Thought that would be the last time I got a KIA that was build prior to 2005, but my wife tricked me and bought a 2003 Kia Spectra. We have had nothing but issues with that one also.
Sorento is a great SUV for the $$$
pastrad, 01/08/2003
2003 Kia Sorento EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I have only had this SUV a couple of weeks but so far so good. The only things I don't like are the front OH lights don't come on when you open the door. The middle and back ones do. The standard AM/FM/CD could use more power. The guage package is rather plain but nicely done. Floor heat mildly comes through dash registers. The leather is very nice. The horn is AWFUL. Sounds like a toy car. Overall a 9 out of 10.
Own 15 years normal wear and tear
Brian H, 01/07/2019
2003 Kia Sorento LX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I have replaced the belts, valve gaskets, breaks, tires,1 cycloidal in transmission, Overflow box for radiator, Gas temp gauge, and a few sensors... in 15 years.. after all this and doing normal stuff oil , trans and radiator flush.. I am handing it over to my son as a 1st car.. it runs great. The only thing I would say that is bad for being this old is the radio sucks.
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- Interior
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- Reliability
- Value
So far, so Good
Ivory_babe4u, 03/21/2003
2003 Kia Sorento LX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I just bought the Sorento 4x4 on the 14th of March 2003. I love it so far! www.kia.com Check them out. I went online and picked out features I wanted. Called my car company and they had the exact one just coming in. Is that service or what? like when you take the key out and you left your lights on, when you open the driver's side door the lights automatically go off! I have been caught more than 1x needing a jump. :-) I also like the features that windows work after key is removed from ignition until drivers' side door opens. This is my second Kia vehicle.
Kia Sorento
Seahawk, 10/18/2002
2003 Kia Sorento EX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
At 6'4" and 290lbs most cars don't "fit" - the Kia Sorent is easier to get in to and provides more shoulder and leg room than the Toyota Highlandr and the Nissan Pathfinder. The interior and exterior styling puts the others in the background. The engine performance and ride quality are excellant. Assembly "finish" and "fit" are excellant. I spent a lot of time researching various SUV's, testing the fit and looking at the quality of construction - the Kia Sorento meets or exceeds even the Lexus and Mercedes, and won't take you to the cleaners trying to pay for it.
Love that truck...
HJS, 05/27/2009
2003 Kia Sorento EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
It's a really nice truck with great styling inside and out with good fit, finish and quality... also plenty of power... great offroader, too... had no issues except a split overflow canister which was replaced under warranty... and break shudder comes into the picture once the rotors wear down... but can be avoided by installing better grade after market replacement rotors which are actually cheaper than the original ones...... otherwise my six year old Sorrento is still rock solid and running smooth... it is quiet on the road and comfortable compared to other SUV's out there... will replace it with the same model if it ever falls apart... but so far it's holding up very well...
Our Kia Sorento
GUS, 07/22/2008
2003 Kia Sorento EX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I had never seen a Kia Sorento until June of 2003 when my wife and I drove past the dealership and my eye caught sight of an elegant new SUV. I got reverse sticker shock when I found out it was considerably less than the competition's and had elegant appointments. I took the car home for one day and could find NO bad points about the Sorento. Even the 15 MPG city is comparable (as it is a truck). I bought it the next day and have loved it ever since. I have owned it 5 yrs and 1 mo. Now and my only complaint was every bulb on the car has gone out at least once (most of them twice). It is smooth comfortable and responsive but keep in mind it's a truck so pot holes give ya a jolt..THX KIA
Poor Quality Parts
Scott, 10/26/2009
2003 Kia Sorento EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I have owned my Sorento for over five years now and for the most part I have been happy with it. However, It does have some re-occurring issues. For the first two years I had to replace the rotors every 6 months. All along the dealership telling me that it was my driving habits. I finally quit buying kia parts and replaced the rotors with after market part off the internet. I have not had an issue since. I have also had numerous electrical issues that the dealership can never fix because it doesn't occur when we take it in. Unfortunately if the cars computer doesn't tell them what is wrong, they are done looking. It is too bad because the vehical isn't that bad, it just needs better parts.
First Impressions
carltonguest, 06/04/2003
2003 Kia Sorento EX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Styling and design is excellent, my wife loves it. Very comfortable and handles and drives great. Good performance, of course mileage is not that great. I don't know what these folks (CU, others) are driving when they say that the ride is too rough, truck-like, mine is certainly not. Check engine light came on at 100 miles, dealer quickly fixed. Nice job overall. Everyone is very impressed by it, especially when they ride in it.
Expensive replacement parts great car
gwynnat, 07/21/2007
2003 Kia Sorento LX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
We've owned this car for over a year and have been pretty happy with it. It's got 104050 miles on it. The downside is the cost and availability of parts. The major parts (and some not so major like shocks) are only available through the factory or a dealer and are considerably more expensive than typical replacement parts. On this model year two different water pumps were produced and they are not interchangeable. We didn't find this out until it was at our mechanics to get the timing belt and water pump replaced. Just the parts cost about $500. Also, the coolant reservoir has a tendency to crack/split and costs about $150 to replace.
Excellent value and sporty looks
cybern, 03/03/2007
2003 Kia Sorento EX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Bought with 15,000 miles and was pleasantly surprised with the interior room and luxury. Performance could be better but is satisfactory for everyday driving. Get lots of compliments. Am anxious to buy a 2008 Sorento, entirely new and exciting styling.
Still Lovin' it!
Rozebud, 08/14/2004
2003 Kia Sorento EX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I've had my Kia for a year and a half now and I still love it! I wrote my first review in March of '03 and never imagined I'd still feel the same farther down the road. It still feels like a new car. The steering and transmission is still tight and nothing has broken or worn out. The airbag light did come on recently and I'm taking it in to get it fixed. Probably just a sensor gone bad? I'm short and this vehicle fits me perfectly. My husband has a GMC Envoy, a great car too, but I hate driving it because of it's size. It is a little hard to get in and out of, especially for my seven year old. I think I might buy the available running boards.
Bargain Luxury and Style
noelsboyce, 12/22/2006
2003 Kia Sorento EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
What began as a search for a luxury vehicle including such names as Lexus and Acura, quickly led us to a little known bargain of the Kia Sorento. The looks are comparable to the big two aforementioned, while the price wasn't half of equally aged vehicles. The 2003 Sorento EX is the "upscale" model. Our includes leather, tow, Harman Kardon sound, power everything, sunroof, etc. We got ours with slightly higher mileage for just under $12K. We did however opt for the additional extended warranty. The vehicle rides extremely smooth compared to the Jeep Grand Cherokee we traded in. The luxury appointments are very well suited for a small suv class vehicle. All in all a bargain for the price and year
2003 Sorento
Bandera, 04/27/2004
2003 Kia Sorento EX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Had our Kia Sorento for seven months (6000mi)now. We love it. The biggest complaint is it SHOULD get much better gas milage! Maybe it's not quite broken in yet. Only had it to the dealer once-the check engine light came on-turned out to be a polution control item. Fixed it in 20 minutes. Only other complaint is the cig. lighter /power outlet in the front console & the one in the rear compartment are only powered when the key is ON. This caused our cell phone to do a noisy power up sequence every time the key is turned on. I fixed it myself by running a new fused wire that is hot all the time. Other than that, it's fine.
Best vehicle I've ever bought
todrikki, 11/16/2006
2003 Kia Sorento EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
The Sorento now has 38k on it. The cupholder in the back could have been built a little better. We get 22 plus on the highway. People whining about mileage should remember this is a body on frame vehicle. A truck on wheels. Look under a Sorento and you will be amazed at the heavy duty construction. Stereo is out of this world It rides like a big ol Cadillac. It does tend to be a little stiff on some bumps, but I'm sure this is because it is intended for some off roading. Overall, I can't believe this is a Kia. It's the best thing Kia has ever put out. I was not even going to test drive one, because I figured it would be like the Sportage. The warranty is "THE BEST."
Please Be Careful!
seaojoy, 07/24/2003
2003 Kia Sorento LX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I traded in my Hyundai Santa Fe for the Kia Sorrento LX, BIG MISTAKE!!! Poor gas mileage, over-steering, and by far the most DANGEROUS aspect to this SUV are the BLIND SPOTS that the Sorrento is plagued with. The front hood slope makes parking w/o hitting a curb or stall barricade impossible. Complete driver and passenger side blind spots. Finally, because the rear cargo hatch window is situated so high, you really can't see smaller cars directly behind you. I've been driving for 34-years, and this SUV terrifies me.
heck of a buy
kert, 11/12/2002
2003 Kia Sorento EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I am extremely pleased and impressed with our sorento ex luxury package. For 10 to 12k less than similiar looking vehicles I can give up the independent suspension. The construction is extremely good. Only problem at time of delievery was a light out in the ash tray. It's a great buy and your must drive it.
Good luck to the competition
Blackremmy, 10/26/2003
2003 Kia Sorento LX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I am 53 years old, I have had at least 20 vehicles. Including, a limited edition Cadillac Boritz. This vehicle has been given great thought in its design. They have numerous places for items, including a large drawer under the passenger seat for maps, etc. There are several outlets inside the vehicle. The door handles light up for easy key access at night. This in itself is a key item for safety in this day and age. The ignition also lights up. I could continue with some more major items, but simply this is the best vehicle I have ever owned.
Shoulda bought a 4 runner
QCYNCY, 03/13/2009
2003 Kia Sorento EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Wife bought the car new in 2003. We have 70K on it now and to be honest, I'm surprised it has been as reliable as it had been. Still, the maint schedule is unreasonable, $$, and he dealerships are completely incompetent. Last three times I needed to take the car back after maint because of dealer error. Will say the car has been off road on NE beaches all 5 summers about 60 trips in all and never had an offroad perf problem. Bought this over 4 runner because it offered leather,moonroof and warrnty for a few grand less than 4 runner. Stripped 4 runner is now worth 4K more at trade in than this though! if you can do w/o some options, there are better cars with better resale than KIA.
Great Engineering
Ernest Dockery, 12/08/2006
2003 Kia Sorento EX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
KIA has their engineering down pat. I had no problems until after 100,000 miles and then the car seemed to start coming apart. First the windshield wiper control arm came apart then several of the sensors quit working and lastly the bolt on the harmonic balancer sheared causing me to get a new engine. I love the way the car drives but the reliability stinks.
What a deal
yuppietrucker, 11/27/2003
2003 Kia Sorento LX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
We bought this SUV for a trip to CT in DEC. We did a side by side comp on the internet, and issues such as hip/shoulder room were a major factor. Then we went to test drive, and it was all we wanted and more. We don't drive vehicles hard, so our mpg is 18 city/21.5 Hwy. We are still finding out little features that are a pleasant surprise. The $$ savings are just icing on the cake.
Kia unable to repair.
Gunter Dresler, 09/25/2008
2003 Kia Sorento LX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 3 people found this review helpful
After driving my 1.5 year old 20,000 km Sorento for 10 meters in 50 cm deep water, it stopped running. The Dealer/Importer had the car for over 6 month in the shop and could NOT get it running again. I paid for a new Computer, but still, as of today it is not running. The location of the air intake is for an SUV on one of the most stupid places you can find in an 4 weal ATV. and so is the location of the Computer.
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.
I love it!
Sargento Sorento, 11/23/2002
2003 Kia Sorento EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love this truck! It is a true truck employing rear-wheel drive with on- demand 4WD. It is much more capable than a Honda CR-V or Toyota RAV4.
Just Purchased
PatsFan, 11/27/2002
2003 Kia Sorento EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Luxury Group and ABS for 25,485..500 dollars overinvoice..Had TO haggle dealers in Boston area...Herb Chambers was the best on price..Boch was horrible..Stay away from them. They wouldn't come down on price at all.They are actually trying to sell them for 2% over sticker price.
Great SUV
GIOVANNI, 11/30/2002
2003 Kia Sorento LX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I am very impressed an satisfied so far with my SORENTO.The power of this vehicle is very impressive for its weight. I have no trouble jumping on the highway,passing vehicles or just flat out wanting to get it up to 100 mph. YES 100 MPH +. I FELL IT LACKS NO POWER. I am only getting 18 mpg. on the highway. But I do drive pretty fast.60 to 70 MPH.So I guess the V-6 does like to drink heavily.The ride is very good for a truck frame body.The suspension is great.Porsche did a great job working with KIA.What a Great Vehicle.As far as reliability I only have 1000 miles on it. So far no problems of any kind.
Wow, what a deal
Jenifern, 12/19/2002
2003 Kia Sorento EX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love my Sorento. I am so impressed, it's the luxury of the Lexus, RX300, the off-road of a Jeep for thousands less and a better warranty. The quality is impressive for the price, and we'll see about long term quality. But so far, It's worth the money.
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
Great purchase
jdcam, 12/06/2002
2003 Kia Sorento EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Just purchased, only 110 miles so far. Best Bang for the buck out there!! Only time will tell on quality, but as of now.. I couldn't be happier. Fit and finish seems outstanding, no rattles or stange noises. My choices were a Kia or a 99 Merceded ML320. Features were the same, price was the same. I had to go with the warranty.
What I did before I purchased the KIA
abbottisretired, 12/07/2002
2003 Kia Sorento EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I spent many hours on the internet checking out all the SUV's in this segment. What I found was that you would have to spend 10 to 20 thousand more to get the same features. I have had mine for two weeks and in snow. The Sorento performed as expected and with KIA's drive it and forget it 10 year 100000 mile warrenty there is nothing to loose. The buying experience with HART MOTORS in Salem VA was so good and fast that it took longer to get the Sorento out of the showroom than it did to the paper work. I am very happy with my purchase.
first new car
jared02, 12/09/2002
2003 Kia Sorento LX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've been searching for a mid-size SUV for a year. I found the Sorento online and thought it too good to be true. Great looks and well built! Handles just as good or better than my wife's 99 Honda Accord. Fuel economy suffers. The best warranty and standeard features you can find for the price.
We love our new Sorento
rodshep, 10/22/2002
2003 Kia Sorento EX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
We bought the sorento after looking at the Nissan Xterra, Honda CRV and Toyota Rav4. A big plus for us was the exterior body style. I was also very SUPRISED with the performance and the fit and finish of the interior. I never dreamed i would purchase a KIA for anything other than a work car. The warranty is icing on the cake.
the car is OK
felix15, 12/07/2002
2003 Kia Sorento EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
i have a 2500 ccm CRDI diesel with 140 hp only in Germany .. it's OK :-))
LEXUS RX300 CLONE
HOWEL MOLE, 12/06/2002
2003 Kia Sorento EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
HAVE OWNED MANY NEW AUTOS, FROM MARK 7'S CADILLACS, BONNIEVILLES ETC. THIS EX MODEL HAS EVERYTHING. IT HAS TO BE A CLONE OF THE RX300. THE QUALITY IS AS GOOD AS THE RX300 WITH THE EXCEPTION OF THE LEATHER SEATS. ONLY 1" DIFFERENCE IN THE LENGTH, 300 LBS HEAVER, 20 HP LESS AND $14,000 LESS. VERY NICE RIDE AND THE POWER IS NOT LACKING FOR A V6. I STILL CAN BELEIVE HOW GREAT A CAR IT IS FOR THE PRICE.