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Used 2005 Kia Sorento Consumer Reviews

4.6 out of 5 stars
262 reviews

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Pros
Cons
4.25 out of 5 stars

Great SUV!

BSeverson, 11/13/2010
2005 Kia Sorento LX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
58 of 59 people found this review helpful

I bought my Kia used in 2007. I had never even driven a Kia before this one and was a little uneasy about buying one. Turns out its one of the best cars I have ever owned. Perfect size for the family(wife and two kids). With good storage in the back and a decent roof rack. Love that it has full size tires and not the barbie doll ones like on the Sportage. Okay the wife is out of the room now, let me tell you what I really think! This car is beast! I live in Colorado where it can snow pretty good and when you put this thing in 4x4 and mash the pedal it can take you places. I'm talking 4 ft tall drifts sometimes 20 ft across and this KIA got me across them. I have proof the car can take a beating.

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3 out of 5 stars

Loved it at first...

Sandra, 08/17/2016
2005 Kia Sorento LX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
23 of 24 people found this review helpful

I have had this SUV for 11 years. I have constantly changed rear bulbs, A/C went out at 70,000 miles, rear end went out after 1 year. Radio and CD player has never worked correctly, interior plastic items break often, eats batteries and just stops running out of no where or will not start. Dealer says no problem found. I am finally moving on to a Honda.

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
4 out of 5 stars
Performance
4 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
5 out of 5 stars
Reliability
1 out of 5 stars
Value
3 out of 5 stars
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4 out of 5 stars

Still Runs like a champ after 10 years!!

Ashton, 02/11/2016
2005 Kia Sorento LX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5M)
26 of 28 people found this review helpful

Me and my family have owned this car firsthand since 2005 and it has been such a fun, exciting reliable car since the day we bought it! Ok so firstly Id like to say obviously if you bought the car second hand you cant really blame the car for poor performance issues or problems. Each car has its own history and of course with good care will last a long time. That being said I can start my review... ok where to begin... alright well performance wise the car has alot more power than expected. The 3.5 V6 has about 195 HP which is really great and the engine combined with the transmission has always been very responsive and seems to never dissapoint. As far as comfort I personally am content with the vehicle. I mean its not comparable to a plush couch but its not uncomfortable either. The quality of the vehicle is decent, Kia is known for using cheaper parts but its nothing too degrading. When you enter the car its what you can expect from an average car. Now hands down this is the toughest car Iv ever owned. Iv only been in 2 accidents, one of them I was rear ended at a red light and it was an extremly hard hit. Other than damage to the bumper and tail gate towards the back of the car thats all that really happened, and I was personally ok other than a small ammount of whiplash due to my position at the time of Impact. The car has never left me stranded anywhere and I havnt had to replace anything too major other than thing that with wear and tear need fixing. Probably the biggist repair has been changing the timing belt just because you literally have to take off every accessory on the engine and its very time consuming and a bit of a pain. Our sorento now has a little over 160,000 miles and still runs like a champ, a can floor it anytime, make hard stops frequently, and steer abruptly anytime I feel like it without having to worry about damage or wear. And I can confirm I have driven the heck out of that car, I meanIv put extreme wear in it and she still runs great. So aside if all the great things the sorento has to offer, some down falls are... the paint on the hood, roof and other small areas has faded completley. Iv noticed my sorento isnt the only one that has a faded hood though and sort of in the same shape. I actually think it might be due to the heat of the engine over time... then again its a decade old so you can expect that. Another downfall is bad gas mileage. Its rated I believe at 16 MPG or so but when you drive it hard like I do go ahead and bump that number down to 14 mpg. And lastly, I wish the cars hood didnt slope down so much, it makes it look more like a van than a SUV. Although the 2009 Sorentos hood did improve concerning that... So yea anyways the cars not a clunker, Kia did a very good job with their 05 Sorento and obviously it does has flaws just like every other car but take it from me It still holds the champ title in my eyes, and I still pride the car to this day. So many valuble memories have been made with it, and I comend Kia on it. I just wish the 2016 Kia looked different and I also wish they hadnt strayed from the true SUV body style. The 2016 personally looks like a mini van and it doesnt have the same off road capability or ruggedness as my 05 does.

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
4 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
4 out of 5 stars
Comfort
5 out of 5 stars
Reliability
4 out of 5 stars
Value
2 out of 5 stars
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4.38 out of 5 stars

great design, but flawed!

Doug B., 12/23/2006
2005 Kia Sorento EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
23 of 25 people found this review helpful

This is a company car; we wanted something fairly new with a warranty and the Sorento fit the bill. I am impressed with the ride, the handling, the comfort (I am 6'8") and the storage. Despite its low horsepower, I find it to be a quick when you mash the pedal. What really impressed me is the storage, all the reviews by car mags complain about the lack of storage but I found it to be more than enough. Dealer service has been exemplary. My personal car is a Lexus LS400, and the dealer treatment approaches the Lexus dealer. With every service they wash the car, amazing. Only complaint is the check engine light.

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2 out of 5 stars

11+ years and it WAS a great SUV

Scott, 02/13/2016
updated 08/15/2017
2005 Kia Sorento LX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
29 of 33 people found this review helpful

I bought my Sorento LX 4x4 new in January 2006 (2005 model year) and it has been a very dependable vehicle and I have enjoyed owning it. It has only been back to the dealer one time for minor repairs, brakes and new belts in 10 years. Very reliable and I love the truck design platform with real four wheel drive. It will easily crawl up any mountain jeep trail in 4x4 (low setting). It has good towing capacity. I may have been lucky that I did not end up with one of the Sorentos that mechanical or electrical issues, based on the problems in other reviews. When it is in standard 2wd the rear wheel drive can loose traction easily on icy roads, but it plows through everything with secure traction in 4 wheel drive (high setting). The only other repairs that I have done are the exhaust flex pipes were replaced when holes developed, replaced the tires and regular oil changes. Gas mileage varies considerably based on driving. I typically get 9-14 mpg driving in my hilly city, but on the highway it gets 18-22 mpg depending on speed. I just did 700+ miles of mostly freeway driving at 70 mph in the winter 32 degrees on day and 0 degrees a few days later and still got 21-22 mpg both times. On slower 55 mph highways I have gotten 24 mpg when fully loaded down with a weeks worth of camping gear and an 18 foot canoe on the roof. I'm happy I bought it and still enjoy driving it, the seats are very comfortable, the interior is nicely designed, I still take it on road trips and down remote logging roads. I don't put a lot of miles on it because I live in a smaller city and don't do my daily commute to work in it. I happily get to walk to work all year for my commute! In town it is primarily used for hauling supplies to work. Glad I bought my Sorento LX :) - Read update Update: In my prior review I forgot about the engine starter motor that failed on Christmas Day in a different town. That repair on a 6 year old car was not covered by the 10 year/100,000 mile warranty! Since then: At 11 years and 2 months, with just 60k miles, a engine timing belt sprocket broke distroying my engine. The timing belt replacement & associtated maintenance had been performed the prior year. The replacement rebuilt used engine cost just as much as the suv was worth. My local KIA dealer took 3 1/2 months to replace the engine, including 2 subsequent repairs due to the a poor installation. On one of those the dealer had to tow the car in because the replacement engine quit working.

Safety
4 out of 5 stars
Technology
4 out of 5 stars
Performance
4 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
5 out of 5 stars
Reliability
1 out of 5 stars
Value
3 out of 5 stars
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5 out of 5 stars

Great Car!!!

ma1kohler, 10/23/2011
2005 Kia Sorento LX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
12 of 13 people found this review helpful

We bought our Sorento new in 05 and it just turned 120K miles. The best vehicle I have ever owned. Other than the 2 dozen or so headlights the Sorento has never been to the shop, ever. We are getting ready to buy a new 2012 Sorento and can't wait.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Second Sorento 90k miles Strong

Brian, 10/22/2010
2005 Kia Sorento EX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
6 of 6 people found this review helpful

Great reliable vehicle. It's my second Sorento and third kia so far. I drive many miles to work so I first bought a Kia because of the low price, now I buy because of the quality. So far I've had no mechanical failures, but my shocks and struts are getting weaker. Of the two Sorentos I've owned, the first one did have the issue with head lights going before their time. This one has been OK so far though in regards to that problem. My first Sorento was bought used as well and was a 2004 EX v6 model. It was also very reliable but got totaled in an accident so I had to buy my 05 to replace it. By the way the car held up well in the crash and was still drivable afterward.

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4.13 out of 5 stars

Solid car for the money

floucka, 10/21/2010
2005 Kia Sorento EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
9 of 10 people found this review helpful

We purchased our Sorento new and have since put 110,000+ miles on it. It has held up well. Overall it has been very reliable and a good car to drive. We chose it based primarily on its styling as at the time it did not look like other SUVs. It still stands out in a sea of sameness. Fuel economy is not great but I consistently average 20 mpg per fill up. I have experience some of the electrical gremlins shared by others including multiple head light changes. I had to replace a diode to get the interior light to go on in the "Door" position. The A/C died recently.

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2.13 out of 5 stars

3 Strikes and the Kia is out!!!!!

mdacosta, 10/05/2011
2005 Kia Sorento LX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
9 of 10 people found this review helpful

Can't believe it my kia has to go back for the third time for crank polly bolt that keeps breaking off!!!! With bad service and bad attitude from there service department!!! With all the light bulbs going out at different times of the week and A/C stop working after the first year and no body knows why.... Heater never gets hot enough in cold winter weather here in Canada, I have to wear extra clothes to keep warm. Battery always needs a boost. Paint chips off. Do yourself a favor and DON'T BUY A KIA!!!!! You're better off walking, mine leaves me stranded.....

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4.38 out of 5 stars

Like a rock!

drblptq, 03/26/2011
2005 Kia Sorento EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
9 of 10 people found this review helpful

I owned this for three years, bought new, as a work vehicle. This has to be the the heaviest build small suv I have ever driven. Although there were numerous trips to the shop under warranty all was taken care of efficiently with little fuss. The gas mileage is abysmal, at 15 city and 20 highway, but built like a tank. I was rear ended at 50,000 miles and all I had was a cracked bumper cover! The honda that hit me was totalled. The car never let me down, and honestly I have been considering buying a used one as a second vehicle for my wife.

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3.13 out of 5 stars

We need a new engine in our new car

sorento, 04/22/2005
2005 Kia Sorento EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful

On the highway the engine light flashed and went off and stayed off. The Sorento was chugging a bit after that, so we took it to the dealer. They said the Sorento needed a new engine. Engine is in, waiting for parts so they say. This is the 3rd week without the SUV. Driving a loaner VW. Until then we loved it. Only 10 months new. Luxury package.

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5 out of 5 stars

Excellent Buy & Very Pleasant SUV!!

kandeemann2001, 02/22/2011
2005 Kia Sorento EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful

I purchased used in Dec '10 w/ 50,000 miles. 2 months and 5,000 miles later, not a single problem and absolutely a pleasure to drive! I upgraded from an '00 Sportage, so I'm LOVING all the extra space, extra comfort and extra POWER from the Sorento. Seats are unquestionably the most comfortable i've ever sat in, power is MORE than enough than i'll probably ever need, and there's a ton of space, both for passengers and cargo. I park next to plenty of the newer mid-sizers at work (Highlanders, Pilots, XC90s, etc.) and it looks just as stylish. Mine is white with the beige interior and gold cladding - VERY NICE! Steering is light and easy to handle. Super comfy ride to work and school everyday.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

My love Affair with Sorento

ladyvet, 11/11/2004
2005 Kia Sorento LX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful

I love my Sorento. I will never buy any thing else!

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2.13 out of 5 stars

Don't buy a Kia!!!!!

maureen26, 04/08/2014
2005 Kia Sorento LX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
14 of 19 people found this review helpful

I bought my Kia used. So of course the 100,000 mile warranty was not valid. I have poured so much money into this vehicle over the 3 years I've owned it. I maintain it properly, oil changes, new tires, etc. Well, I just found out the entire rear axle and differential completely rusted/rotted away to nothing. The only thing holding up the car was a shock! I truly believe this car was made poorly with cheap metal. Kia will not help me or stand behind the cars they build. When replacing the rear axle the mechanic found a part that was manufactured wrong in the factory and put on backwards. Again, KIA stands behind nothing! I could have purchased a rental car with all of the times I've had one.

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5 out of 5 stars

I so happy I bought a Kia

Tren'a Anderson, 06/23/2005
2005 Kia Sorento LX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful

I wanted a Kia Sorento as soon as I saw it. So many people who had never owned a Kia made me skeptical saying," I don't know about that, why dont you get a Honda or Toyota?" But luckily for me I test drove the Kia Sorento for two days and fell in love with it. I have owned my kia for only about three weeks but I know I made the right choice. It had the looks and the right price, it was the whole package.

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2.88 out of 5 stars

Never ending story

njones, 12/23/2008
2005 Kia Sorento LX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful

Bought this new. Had problems right from the start. ICV problem caused engine replacement. Now shifter ($500) fell off in my hand. Next I get news from dealer main computer board needs replacement ($900), Kia refuses to accept any responsibility. These problems in now way could be caused by our use. Kia customer service the absolute worse.

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5 out of 5 stars

Gert the Kia

Emily Jade, 09/28/2018
2005 Kia Sorento LX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful

I got this as a first car from my mother who drove it and took care of it. It had been through a wreck or 2 but nothing would stop this car. As anyone who gets their first car would, i ran this car to death and she kept up with me. Loved my Gertrude.

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
3 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
4 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
4 out of 5 stars
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2.63 out of 5 stars

Safety defect in manual transmission

Rick, 11/17/2006
2005 Kia Sorento LX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
4 of 5 people found this review helpful

We have a highly intermittent problem with manual tranny. From time to time we can't shift gears or get the car to move which puts us in a dangerous situation (has happened downshifting in intersections, upshifting pulling out into traffic, etc.)/ As this is a safety defect we are seriously concerned & have reported the problem to KIA & NHTSA. Due to it being an intermittent one, unfortunately when KIA has test driven it they cannot duplicate the problem and refuse to take further action to diagnose the transmission and related components. We are concerned if we trade/sell we are passing an unsafe car to another unsuspecting consumer but we may have no other choice due to KIA's indifference.

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1 out of 5 stars

Never buy another Kia

Glen, 10/03/2016
2005 Kia Sorento EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
5 of 7 people found this review helpful

Bought this car used 14 months ago. In the time that I've owned it had to replace timing belt, crankshaft bolt, front wheel bearings fuel pump and now need to replace the motor. This car has been nothing but trouble. Stay away from used ones.

Safety
3 out of 5 stars
Technology
2 out of 5 stars
Performance
2 out of 5 stars
Interior
3 out of 5 stars
Comfort
2 out of 5 stars
Reliability
1 out of 5 stars
Value
1 out of 5 stars
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4 out of 5 stars

I MISS MY KIA!!!

Tamera, 06/26/2019
2005 Kia Sorento LX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

I purchased my '05 Kia Sorento for cash in 2008 from a private owner. He was the only owner prior to my purchasing. He actually owned an oil change shop, so the truck was very well maintained with about 70k miles. This truck was SO GOOD to my family & I!! I was the main driver for the first 2 years, then we purchased a 2nd vehicle & my husband drove the Kia for the next few years back & forth to work, which was a 35-40 mile drive twice daily. We also took several road trips & once I started my own business, I used the Kia to drive all around the Metro Detroit area. Unfortunately, we neglected to have some much needed work done timely & the truck caught fire! In the end, there was close to 300k miles on my "Heather". I have a new vehicle now, but I can't help but miss my baby!

Safety
4 out of 5 stars
Technology
4 out of 5 stars
Performance
4 out of 5 stars
Interior
4 out of 5 stars
Comfort
4 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
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4.75 out of 5 stars

Very Nice Ride!

Very Nice Suv Value, 11/24/2007
2005 Kia Sorento LX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

Recently purchase d05 LX. Color outstanding blue sparkle gray this vehicle has 25000 miles on it. It was a leased vehicle very well maintained. Everything spotless. Have driven similar SUVs and this by far really ranks up there for comfort and performance. 6 cylinder kicks a little punch to it. Gas mileage is definitely the only thing that might be a little weak. But it still is better than a bigger truck or SUV. And looks and comfort are awsome. Lexus lookers stare at it. I laugh. Smiling now.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

I would never buy another new car...

TParker602, 10/13/2005
2005 Kia Sorento LX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

I work around some of the most exotic automobiles in the industry, and I can honestly say I get excited every time I climb in my '06 Kia Sorento. With a value package which includes more standard features than any of the competition, quality ratings handed down from Kia's parent company - up and coming Hyundai, an unheard of 60K mile bumper-to-bumper warranty, industry leading 100K mile powertrain warranty, unique styling dubbing the Sorento as the "baby Lexus RX 300", and a price that will turn your head ... buyers remorse is a thing of the past. I love the fact that you don't see too many Sorentos on the road. Everyone keeps asking me what it is, or thinks I'm driving an exotic!

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2.63 out of 5 stars

NOT for long haul commuters!

sorefoot, 03/14/2008
2005 Kia Sorento LX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
4 of 7 people found this review helpful

purchased this vehicle used in 8/2007 for a 3-day a week commute 40 miles each way (80 per day). after a month my foot started bothering me. after two months i was diagnosed with a stress fracture. laid up with no driving for a few months in a cast and get 80% better. back to work and within weeks am having same pain! have determined foot pain coincides with the purchase date of car. the gas pedal is in such an awkward position that my foot has to be at an unnatural angle. 2 hours a day at the angle and well, you have an injury!

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2.88 out of 5 stars

ELECTRICAL PROBLEMS

avengers2, 06/05/2011
2005 Kia Sorento LX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
3 of 5 people found this review helpful

Bought new in 05. Engine light came on when I got home from the dealer. Sensor out. Head lights go out about every 4 months. The back windshield wiper blade runs for about 5 minutes every time you start the car. I had the car checked out. They said I have 3 electrical problems. The air conditioner went out 2 years ago.

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4.63 out of 5 stars

Top Notch!

joatrades, 03/20/2012
2005 Kia Sorento LX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
20 of 49 people found this review helpful

I bought my Sorento used in '06 with 12,000 miles on it. Now have 89K. Love the fact that it is a true 4x4! The rear end is just like a truck, unlike most newer SUVs (including the '12 Sorento!) Never had issues with lights but brakes are below par as is the sheet metal (thin), fuel economy is not great either. Paint, A/C engine, & tranny all are top notch. Very reliable & would buy another '05 or '06.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Worth every Penny

Emi. P., 03/17/2009
2005 Kia Sorento EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

I purchased a Kia Sorento EX 2005 and after comparing with other SUV's, this Sorento has got to be the most fun and durable to drive..i've hauled many things and every time it was done with ease.. not to mention the 4WD what a blast.. i've had people that have other SUV's tell me that this model is made so solid you hear nothing.. and i would go back to buying another KIA.. for the money this is quality, strong built SUV with a powerful engine under the hood..

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4.5 out of 5 stars

Vermonter's review

Jay H Karpin, 08/07/2005
2005 Kia Sorento LX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

The vehicle is excellent in deep snow but I have had the 4WD fail once at about 40,000 miles and now the cruise has failed at 51,000. It is better on stability than any other 4WD that I have had and I do drive a lot of interstate at 65 mpg. The one other problem I find is the rear tailgate door is difficult to close with the pull down handle on the inside.

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5 out of 5 stars

My Sorento

Diane, 05/10/2005
2005 Kia Sorento LX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

I do alot of mountain driving and the car handles with no effort. The manual trans. is very smooth. No lurching. The ride is very comfortable for all passengers. The interior is extremely quite, it's nice to have a conversation whithout having to yell. The service from the dealership has been exemplary. I very much like the rear seat center shoulder strap safety belt. I don't worry about the middle passenger flying forward. The cargo area is spacious considering the car is small in comparison to the full size suv's I've recommended the car to several people. To date, two other people have purchase a Kia, one a Sorento the other a Spectra. Both seem to be very pleased.

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4.38 out of 5 stars

good SUV but

stuart, 06/14/2005
2005 Kia Sorento EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

dead battery three times. the dealer has no clue. a slightly hard ride, front seats could be wider other than that i like the vehicle. great off road preformance (part time 4wd), handles great, quiet and tows a small pop/up trailer well. good value for what i paid for it...time will tell

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Liked it so much I bought another

onephatgrl, 03/27/2005
2005 Kia Sorento LX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

Very well designed and laid out. Build quality is very nice and not cheap looking. Have an Ex and LX both 4WD wich perform well in the snow. Ride is smooth but sometimes choppy at low speds otherwise a good alternative to honda crv and the ever so ugly rav 4

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4.63 out of 5 stars

Good SUV for the price

Tim, 04/30/2006
2005 Kia Sorento EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

Good vehicle for the money. Fun to drive, quiet and so far seems durable. Could do better on fuel economy. Wish the steering wheel controls were lighted.

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4.25 out of 5 stars

Bulb issues constantly

spiegel, 03/03/2009
2005 Kia Sorento LX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

I have had my Sorento for less than 3 years now and I have had to replace 11 bulbs between the low beam, high beam, tail lights, and brake lights. Each bulb averages $35 at the dealership to replace. If it is within 1 year, they replace at no cost. Of the 11 bulbs, 9 have lasted 14 months, which is not covered by the dealership. Something has got to be wrong, and they claim nothing. BULBS DO NOT GO OUT LIKE THIS!

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2.5 out of 5 stars

KIA = GARBAGE

efw904, 09/29/2009
2005 Kia Sorento LX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

This vehicle has had more issues than I know what to do with. Mostly electrical problems. It has been to the dealer for A/C issues 3 times. Eventually having the entire dashboard ripped out and a new harness put in. I have to buy headlights and taillights all the time. So bad that I keep a spare set in the car at all times. It experiences loss of power all the time and the transmission does not engage when in reverse sometimes. The car has had all maintenance done on or before its due. Factory radio also died right after buying it. Service departments are are the worst. Above all the resale value is absolutely horrible. If you buy one, enjoy it b/c you will be stuck with it. Absolute garbage

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3.63 out of 5 stars

Kia Hater

khl723, 08/24/2010
2005 Kia Sorento LX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5M)
3 of 9 people found this review helpful

Run; do not walk away from this car. Where to start? Service department are few, far between and unreliable. I now own stock in GE Lamp division for all the lamps I have had to replace. The electrical system, as far as the "Horns and Whistles" are concerned, keep screwing up. Warning bell goes off for no reason when the car is off and you open the door. Door locks decide when they are going to work. Do not get me started on the mpg, my old van did better.

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3.5 out of 5 stars

Unsatisfied

Andrea, 07/16/2005
2005 Kia Sorento LX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5M)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful

After 3mths of owning this SUV, problems started happening. First a mousy sound comes from the radio console, 2nd my belt screeches from time to time and they can't find a problem, 3rd a paper crumbling noise comes from the dash/windshield area and they tried fixing it 3 times. I give up! 4th, the ac blower was replaced, 5th, a squealing noise from the outside happens when going slow which is the power steering rack and is being replaced, 6th the power window on the drivers side is moving slow and the motor is making a noise, 7th, when accelerating (I have 5 speed) a ringing noise can be heard when the windows are down and 8th, door handles and seat belt holders make noises. I have a lemon!

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2.88 out of 5 stars

Constant Electrical Problems

Chris, 10/06/2010
2005 Kia Sorento LX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful

I'm glad to see I'm not the only one with a horrible experience with my KIA. I've replaced batteries, head lights, tail lights, etc, etc. I keep telling them that four batteries in 5 years is not normal,same with all the lights going out - there has to be a major problem with the electrical system but they say no everything is fine. My warranty expired in August so I am looking to dumb this thing fast. DO NOT BUY A KIA.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

2005 Kia Sorento

P. McPherson, 01/21/2007
2005 Kia Sorento EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful

Great car for a good price. Liked the exterior and interior and the options available. Haven't had to service the vehicle except for oil changes and tire rotation.

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3.75 out of 5 stars

Poor Sevice Department

tgh1357, 04/12/2009
2005 Kia Sorento EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful

Bought new. 1 week later found out sunroof leaked due to poor manufacturing. Fought with dealership to fix (said we probably walked on the roof!) Finally fixed, but had paint overspray all over vehicle. Passenger air bag didn't work. Kia service told me to sit with legs tightly squeezed and it would work! Finally agreed to fix it. Sent seat out for repair. Scratched door jams really bad and gave me touch up paint to fix a new vehicle myself! Too many headlight changes to mention. Dome light motor replaced, electric seat motor replaced. Paint very, very thin and dents easily. Dealing with below surface rust on the tailgate now. Rims have corroded beyond belief and look terrible.

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1.75 out of 5 stars

Save Yourself the Trouble

Marissa, 10/20/2005
2005 Kia Sorento EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful

Although I was initially pleased with my Kia, the last 8 months have been a nightmare. The vehicle had a series of unrepairable problems including the fuel pump, the passenger airbag indicator, and a stalling malfunction. After contacting the attorney general, my dozen phone calls to Kia Motors were returned. Needless to say, it has been deemed a lemon and will be repurchased. Even if the car was not a lemon, I would never purchase another Kia based on their less than adequate customer service.

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4.38 out of 5 stars

Bulb Replacement II

Andy, 08/03/2009
2005 Kia Sorento EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful

I stopped counting the number of headlight & taillights I've replaced. I've had several warranty repairs and each one was a LONG wait for parts to come in from overseas. One dealership I took it to did every thing but roll out the red carpet. Unfortunately, the one I purchased it from, which is 50 miles closer to me, has not been so accommodating. For the money, I have no regrets. But I will stay away from Kia in the future due to the servicing of their warranty.

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2.38 out of 5 stars

IRRESPONSIBLE AND PATHETIC

Sorry Sorento, 06/12/2009
2005 Kia Sorento EX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful

I have over $6000 dollars in maintenance and service in my car. This does not include my rental car expenses because of the numerous times my car has been in the shop. I have replaced headlights, brake lights, parking lights, dome lights, fog lights and interior lights repetitively. I have replaced the timing belt, various ac parts, brakes, power seat motor, power locks, radio, battery, and car alarm parts. This is an attractive SUV with wonderful bells and whistles. It is an irresponsible and pathetic product. The 10 year, 100,000 mile warranty is useless and misleading. They do not stand by their product and it has awful resale value. Do not buy this vehicle regardless of the price!

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4.5 out of 5 stars

Great SUV, very dependable & comfortable

Tom B, 09/05/2009
2005 Kia Sorento LX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 4 people found this review helpful

Purchased new, now have 50K+ miles, my daughter drives it. Never a break down! Very comfortable, and dependable. Typical maintenance issue you have with any car...change brake pads, tires, oil (no surprise) but never any big problems. Two items replaced under warranty...no big deal.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Kia

Dave Hennion, 10/16/2004
2005 Kia Sorento LX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5M)
15 of 87 people found this review helpful

This is got to be one of the best suvs that i have ever bought its a blast to drive,

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1 out of 5 stars

do not buy a kia worst car ever

tranikah, 08/31/2015
2005 Kia Sorento LX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5M)
5 of 29 people found this review helpful

worst car ever gave me problems since day one !!!!

Safety
1 out of 5 stars
Performance
1 out of 5 stars
Interior
1 out of 5 stars
Comfort
3 out of 5 stars
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3.75 out of 5 stars

Don't buy a Kia

wendy, 11/11/2010
2005 Kia Sorento EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
4 of 25 people found this review helpful

We bought a brand new 2005 Sorento and loved it. Within the first year, the brakes and rooters were replaced. The dealership replaced them 4 times, at our expense, then we took it to another mechanic and since then they have been fine. The motor has been replaced twice and is now at the dealership again after it just died in the middle of the road, and my husband and I had to push it off the road. We've replaced every light in the car numerous times, at least 3-4 times a year. It's been in for oil leaks at least 3 times. The paint started chipping within the first year. I'll never ever buy another Kia.

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4.38 out of 5 stars

2005 Kia Sorrento, Can't beat it

k carr, 01/08/2005
2005 Kia Sorento EX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Great car. Interior design is sturdy and practical. Have 4 kids made to fit for my family. Exterior very nice looking and many extras for not much money. Rough ride on dirt and bumpy roads but good trade off for other comforts of car. Excellent warranty. I liked the 3 tone EX, leather seats make it even nicer. Has nice features that were well thought out, Enjoy driving this SUV; it does drive very smooth on the open road (maybe top smooth, received several tickets lately). Will stick with this SUV for a long time. Very satisfied.

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4.13 out of 5 stars

Great SUV for the price

Jodik, 12/10/2009
2005 Kia Sorento LX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I've owned my Sorento for 5 years and have had not one single mechanical problem with the car. (My dome light burns out frequently, but at $20 to repair, I don't consider that a "problem"). It has the pick-up to do highway speeds (and more), even when fully loaded. It's got the cargo space more like the larger Highlander than the smaller RAV4, although it's priced lower than either Toyota. We take my car on road trips and while the gas mileage isn't fantastic, the car is comfortable and has a nice ride.

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4.13 out of 5 stars

Nice price, great SUV

BEE TEE, 01/29/2005
2005 Kia Sorento EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

This is the best SUV for the money. It comes with all the bells and whistles you could possibly want in a vehicle without going overboard. Gas mileage like all SUVs is bad, but you would know this if you were looking at SUVs. The small complaints on this SUV are the rear speakers are weak sounding and the driver's floorboard is shallow for someone with bigger feet. The engine could use more beefing up! Overall, best SUV for the money.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

My new KIA

John Hawker, 01/30/2005
2005 Kia Sorento LX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

The new Kia Sorento we got on January 1, 2005 is the best SUV I have driven. We have a Ford Escape as well. The KIA is a better ride and is much better driving.

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4.63 out of 5 stars

long drive & snow it still gets me there

i love my kia, 12/16/2009
2005 Kia Sorento EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I got my kia sorento just this November. It had 70,000 miles on it but with good history. It was well maintained. I drove it from Indiana to upstate NY. With all 6 luggage I can't say anything bad against this car. Now am testing it on snow so far so good. What I have to agree on kia said they will void my warranty because, I'm the second owner. What a reason! 100,000 miles of warranty is still 100,000 miles of warranty.

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