Used 2008 Kia Sorento Consumer Reviews
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Very Jeep-like
Despite some short comings, I like this SUV. Pros: 4WD, space and comfort, good cargo room, good engine power, great traction. Changed the spark plugs and suspension at 140000 miles! This SUV is tough and has no quit. I'm hoping to get another 100k - 150k out of it or more. Cons: An annoying rattle that no one can find. We have been over the SUV with a fine toothed comb, MANY times and cannot find the rattle. Very sensitive accelerator. Thirsty V-6 engine, but who buys a 4WD SUV for the MPGs? Owner's manual states that 87 octane gas/petrol is minimum. That is a lie! This vehicle needs premium fuel to run right. Any less octane and it sounds like a diesel. Performance becomes sluggish with lower octane gases. Engine has always had an annoying whining when starting and accelerating, but it does not cause any problems. The problem was the belt tensioner and a pulley beside it. Solved and the noise gone too! Get any other color than bright silver. For some reason people tend not to see it! I have had to stick red and white reflectors on the bumper and back door to increase its visibility for other drivers. Brakes have always been too soft, even when new. Stopping distance is long so brake accordingly. The ABS system is second to none however.
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100,000 miles in and all's well
Now that I've written this review everything's probably going to go the heck. I purchased this brand new, off the lot, with less than 100 miles on the clock. It now has over 100K. This car has been a solid work horse for me. I've had to have it in for just one service that I wouldn't be considered wear and tear, and that was when a sensor went out at about 4mon and essentially meant the gas pedal wouldn't work. Apart from that, it's been the usual things that happen to a 6 year old car that has 100k on the clock.
- LX 4dr SUVMSRP: $5,00074 mi away
- LX 4dr SUVMSRP: $2,995170 mi away
- LX 4dr SUVMSRP: $6,995175 mi away
This vehicle has been great
Okay the problems that people have been stating are easily solved. The rattling in the trunk, its the jack in the back, simply put a towl back there with it, the back seat trim is just to cover the hinges on the seat. They are not that important, and the airbag sensor in the passenger seat is working the way it should be, you just have to sit in the seat the correct way. Now to the car its self. It has been great 70k and no troubles at all. I do have to say though the transmission does shift hard sometimes but its not that big of a deal. Great power from the engine, it does suck up the gas though. Overal it is an excelent reliable car to have.
want a newer car but dont want to trade mine in
This car has great acceleration , it is a nice looking car and have had no problems with it at all I want a newer car but like this so well that I have become super picky and I really don't want to trade it in I don't understand why the trade in value is not higher . I bought it for the handling and my husband loved the safety ratings . I had owned several jeeps but this car is at least if not much better built. This vehicle is not a car and doesn't drive like one but is more similar to a combo car/truck .What made me want to buy one in the first place was outstanding warranty and appearance of the Sorento and have been very happy . I would recommend this car to everyone interested .
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Life saver!!
I was in an accident, flipped several times and came out with just bumps and bruises.
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It's not the car; it's the dealer/service
As much as I like my 08 Sorento LX, it's not the car, it's the dealer/service! The Sorento seems to be one with certain issues that plague most of the models. For example, so-so MPG, the passenger air bag sensor, brake rotors, hard shifting transmission (intermittent), rear differential failure and a front, testy transmission when in 4WD and recurring right side axle seal leak. These are problems which should be handled under warranty by any KIA dealer. Unfortunately, that is not the way the company does business. If you get lousy service at one dealer, you should be able to go to another dealer for service without problems. Not so with KIA. Let the buyer beware! Also if you miss any of the recommended services, they won't honor the warranty if any parts are adversely affected, even if the part just went bad on its own! KIA is extreme with their maintenance recommendations and timeliness of the services. Also be very careful when buying in the showroom. Every dealer is trained in HIGH PRESSURE sales/scare tactics. Don't allow them to pressure you into buying a car that you don't want. A "similar" vehicle is not the "same" vehicle that you want. Brush up on your haggling and bargaining skills and be prepared o walk out if you can't reach an agreement.
Wanted one for years
This is not your typical Kia. With 242 horsepower this truck comes with lots of power, I was very impressed with the acceleration ability of this vehicle. Roars like a truck! Not annoying loud, just loud enough to remind you every time you start it that this is not a crossover SUV. Very stylish and fun to drive.
Love it so far!
Traded in my much too tiny and wimpy Dodge Caliber last week for my black Sorento LX and so far I couldn't be happier. It so much fun to drive. I actually look forward to driving to and from work each day... makes it fun. Acceleration is awesome, ride is smooth and strong, and driving is easy. It handles like a dream.
Wish I had read the reviews
I bought a used Sorento with low miles a little less than a year ago. The car has been in the shop for a faulty transmission sensor 3 times without much of an explanation from the service department (the positive is all repairs have been covered under warranty). I wish I had read the reviews before purchasing, as the HARD shift and the passenger air bag comments would have alerted me I might not be happy with the choice. I have lost my faith in this car due to the transmission issues, and am looking at trading it in.
It may of saved our lives!
On April 14, 2008 we were hit by van, and our Kia was totaled. Although all the damage was to our car, we walked away with a few minor bumps and bruises! It sayed upright and did not flip/roll. It was a wonderful car and we would buy one again.
a lemon
I bought a 2008 Kia Sorento brand new. After 6 months i had to take back to dealer and the rotors had to be resurfaced so $150 later I had to take it back a couple of months later the throttle sensor went out. From there was every sensor in the car. I had to take it back to the dealersip every 3 months for a year, It has been 1 problem after another with this car. I started haveing a problem with the car when I would crank it of a morning it sounded like the motor was gonna come out of the car. I took it to the dealership and they told me it wsa just over due for an oil change (not) then they put some oil additavies in the car told me to drive it for a week and it would be fine (not) took
Kia will NOT fix the problem with our car.
At first everything was going fine, but then we started having trouble with our transmission. The SUV would stall and get stuck in 3rd gear. I took it to Kia several times and they could not find anything wrong, however, other places machines was showing a problem with the transmission. After several times of taking it to Kia..they finally found the problem and so called fixed it. They did not fix it...it is still doing the same thing and NOW they can not find ANYTHING wrong......
Happy new owner
Took delivery of vehicle in the morning, and took a 250+ mile trip in the afternoon - mostly freeway in hilly country. Got 22/5 MPG. Traded in 1997 Pathfinder - much the same size vehicle. Having a super time with the manual control of the automatic tranny. Vehicle is so quiet, and great fun to drive. So far, best choice of car ever made -- and the price was definitely right
Lovin' Kia
I live in Cleveland, Ohio and wanted a 4x4 vehicle. The Sorento has been a dream in the snow. I've never felt so safe (will do 55 mph on snow covered highway no problem). The 3.3L engine is amazing. After turning the ignition the engine has a great rumbling sound to it, but when it's idling you might think the car is off. When you floor it the drivers you're blowing by get startled (LOL). The price, warranty, and quality are unbeatable. I have experienced the passenger air bag sensor light issue, but only once. Overall, the vehicle is a joy to drive.
Very Pleased
I test drove many vehicles and the Sorento proved to be the smoothest ride out of those tested in my price range. I had heard negative feedback from the older versions of KIA vehicles which made me nervous but I decided to take a chance based on the look, feel and value for my money. It turned out to be a great choice! Very quiet and smooth. I'm loving it!
I concurr w/the positive reviews
I read all the reviews B4 I bought mine, and yep, MPG could be better. It has actually gotten better as car was broken in more, and weather warmed up too. I swithched to Mobil 1 and a K&N air filter to improve MPG at first oil change. I've gotten 20-21 mpg a few times since. Radio could use an MP3 jack. Rough ride on rough roads bcuz of short wheel base and ladder frame chassis. Rides like a dream on the highway. Quiet w/o a lot of wind noise. Great passing ability. GREAT interior ergonomics. Superb fit and finish. I have RWD model, and handled the WI winter well. ESC comes in handy. Built like a tank. Handles well. Seat back is great for my back I never took proper care of...
Great for the Money!
Sorento EX replaced a 2005 Mercury Mountaineer Premier. We wanted better gas mileage and smaller size SUV (no more hauling around gaggles of girls sports teams). Only gave up 3rd row seat (which we wanted to do anyway), passenger power seat adjustment/lumbar support (which would be bad but the seats are very comfortable), and a little on the stereo quality (but we are rectifying that with an aftermarket nav/sound next month). Comfort is very good, fit/finish is very good, ride is very good and stable (plus we can get our favorite Goodyear Tripletred tires for it). Performance was much better than expected, with the 3.8l V-6 really pushing the Sorento better than our older V-8 SUV.
Good deal
I was looking for a car with value for my money. I didn't want to spend a load of money on features which are attractive but after a while we don't use it. Kia Sorento was perfect in my budget and the other accessories i was looking for. So far the car is running absolutely fine.
Yuck
Really DO NOT Like it. Have returned it to the dealer for brakeing issues. Manual seat does not go up as high as the power seats, engine (3.3) is slow to respond. Have to remove the rear seat headrests in order to put the back seat down, with all of the rear seat headrests & seat belts crossing in my view in the rearview mirror you do not get a clear view out the back, nice storage under the rear floor, but you have to remove EVERYTHING from the back of the vehicle to access it. The cover for the rear area cuts down on the amount of stuff you can put in there unless you remove it & you have to remove it to put the rear seats down. REALLY WISH I had returned it & gotten my old vehicle back.
Beauty & The Beast
Lots of performance and economy. The 262 hp V-6 has plenty of power. I have driven my KIA 14,000 miles, all in-town except on trip of 1200 miles. Mileage from the first tank of fuel has been 24 mpg. Highway mileage went to 28.3 mpg. I drive moderately for economy. Compared to my old SUV, this is a race horse. Very,very pleased.
Gas Cap - Escape light / check engine light
Bought the 2008 Sorrento used about 6 weeks ago. Check engine light/escape light has started coming on and vehicle will not run over 20 miles per hr. I have bought a gas cap and it still has not fixed the problem for more than a day. This is described in the book as a reason the check engine light to come on. A mechanic said the vents that vent the gas vapors can collapse. That is the next thing to have checked. I was looking online to see if any recalls but did not find any. Surely, this is not an isolated problem.
Good SUV
Bought a sorento last Sept. having this SUV for a year we like it a lot; never owned a kia or SUV before but we are very happy driving it. It rides nice and it is very comfortable.
This is a great SUV for the money
I love my Sorento. The gas mileage is abysmal. Once you get over that, and the fact that the stereo is a bit weak, it is terrific in all other respects. It is very well put together with intuitive controls, an attractive interior, great seats, nice exterior design, nice wheels and terrific paint quality. I also like that they don't try to make this a seven seater but instead are very thoughtful with the storage area and add'l storage throughout. If Kia could get a better stereo, nav option and work on the gas mileage, this would be the best SUV in its class.
Great Value
Love it so far. We tested similar foreign and domestic vehicles, and found the Sorrento to be the best value overall. It has everything we need for a family of four. The instrument panel has a clean look and the dashboard controls are simple and straightforward. The ride is quiet at all speeds, and so far is very comfortable in the seating area. For this size vehicle, the cargo area is adequate for everyday use, and the rear fold down seats are easy to operate. The powertrain is strong and easily accelerates even at highway speeds.
Solid Purchase
Excellent value, alot of vehicle for price. The ride is awesome, quite, handles like a dream, great all weather vehicle. We have 23,000 miles now and the vehicle is performing above expectation. It is difficult to look the other way when this vehicle offers so much for such a fair price. We have been pleasantly surprised and this is our second Sorento. The 08 has great power, fun shifting features for sport type driving, and as usual, comfortable seating. Drove from Florida to Arizona and my back felt just fine. Only negative is the passenger air bag sensors are confused. Company has a recall for the settings so I must get that done...besides that...a great buy.
Some good, some bad
Traded sedan in, wanting to sit higher due to blind spots. My mpg averages 21, esp if I keep my husband, teenage son out of it. Not at all pleased with passenger seat sensor explanations . Most recent trip in was told that I do not weigh enough. Hello! At 140? I do not feel comfortable in trusting the air bag system at all because of the sensor issue. Transmission has had to be serviced already. Bulbs already have had to be replaced (both low beams -- 1 year old vehicle -- and bulbs not released to be sold outside of dealership at this time). Major inconvenience. Horrid sound system. Will trade as soon as I can w/out loosing a fortune.
Broke KIA
The main problem I have with this vehicle is the passenger seat airbag. I have had numerous problems with my passenger seat air bag and with five trips to the dealership it still has not been fixed. Now they say it is not working because my wife does not weigh enough, and with her just over 100 pounds I find that hard to believe. Simply stated the vehicle is junk, and they have no regards to our safety by not fixing it.
Had this as a rental for one month
This SUV is quick. It revs high and will throw you back in your seat when you get on the gas. The ride is very smooth even over bumpy brick roads I've been on. I took in on a 200+ mile road trip and was very comfortable. The stock stereo system isn't bad and would be adequate for most people. It's really a sharp looking SUV, the inside isn't Lexus or Mercedes fancy, but if you're not trying to impress everyone with your fancy car, then who cares? I've carried up to 8 people in this thing, of course, two were in the seatless trunk area. Seats fold down real nice to make a ton of cargo room. Definitely a good family hauler, would be great for long roadies or just tooling around town.
Not bad, could be better
I traded a sedan for the Sorento. I use it to transport bikes and dogs (one of which is a 75 lb. Greyhound) and commute to work. I wanted a vehicle that sat higher than a car and had plenty of cargo room. I drive combined city/highway and get 22.5 mpg. I've had trouble with the passenger airbag-my brother (140 lb.) has ridden with me and one minute the airbag sensor screen shows it's on, then a few minutes later it's off. Doesn't exactly make you feel safe. There's a rattle (already) on the driver's side that the dealership fixed, then a few weeks later it came back.
Traded in Expedition
I traded in a Ford Expedition Eddie Bauer with all the toys so please keep this in mind when I compare to my new Sorento EX with leather, sunroof, 6 cd, etc. Gas: The Expedition was getting an average of about 16-17 mpg. Thus far the Kia is getting 21-22 mpg for the same daily route taken to home/work. Space: It is lacking with comparison to the Expedition however is very consistent with a mid size SUV. They could have added about 4-6 inches in length to the cargo area to better round out the car, (I think the test should be to fit an average baby stroller in straight with having to put it sideways.) The front has plenty of room for me and I am above average in size, same for the passenger.
Passenger side air bag issues
My Kia is fun to drive, handles like a dream, I just wish the passenger side airbag sensor light wouldn't come on when there is someone in the seat. I too have had the seat repaired only to have the light come on again. My service tech has recommended that I call Kia directly to ask for help. The 5 star crash test rating, a main reason for buying the Kia, obviously doesn't account for a defective sensor. I would heartily recommend the vehicle to anyone if not for this issue.
Buyer's Remorse
This is a gorgeous loaded vehicle, I got all the bells & whistles in this model. BUT if you're commuting like I do, 120 miles a day + up to 20 in errands on lunch etc, it's horrible on gas. I'm filling up every other day and gas is going up. I traded in my 8 yr old Hyundai Elantra because I have 3 kids, 2 in car seats and a 12 year old who didn't fit in the back. The KIA is better, but still a super tight fit w/2 car seats and a 3rd child. The space isn't as "spacious" as I hoped for. I'm trading it in this weekend for a 4cyl car. I can't afford the gas, I'm averaging 18.3 mpg which is good for it, but I didn't realize how quickly it's used up. If I could afford the gas, I'd keep the vehicle.
Mistake
I had a 2006 Sorento just loved it! Then Nov 4 2008 my dealership called w a great deal. I went for it the car had all I wanted in the 2006. The very next day had to take the car back it stumbled and then I had now RPM's. Turned it off then restart then off I go. They replaced the throttle sensor. Weeks later take it back for the same thing the clean a rodent nest they sold me, out of the air intake. lets just say have had this dang car in every week since ownership. Its going back in the AM its done it again and I have had it back for 6 days. I just paid my second payment I am sorry for making this trade.
I love my Kia
I read so many reviews on here before I bought my Kia, so I wanted to return the favor. After much research and prayer, I bought my '08 Sorento with 7000 miles on it. Got a great price, but was apprehensive about the name. I have driven it daily for over a year and have had NO problems of any kind. I spoke at length with a Kia mechanic and he told me the '08s and later were much better designed and were on par with Toyota quality--without the price tag. I have found that to be true. Love the powerful V6 engine, sporty body style, and handling. I does ride a bit rough, as it is on an SUV frame, but I already knew it would so it doesn't bother me. Don't be afraid of the Kia name!
Faulty ac compresser
2008 Kia Sorento EX needed a new AC compressor after 52,000 miles. This is crazy!!!
Reliable SUV despite previous reviews!
Can’t believe some mix reviews. This Mid/Small Size SUV is a tank. The 3.3L V6 engine is great. Mine has just over 160,000 miles and is still running good. My advice to anyone that wants to keep their vehicle for long is that keep taking it to maintenance time to time and it will last longer. This one for me is a keep !
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I'll Never Buy Another Kia
I don't know where to start. This was my first new car purchase and I am so disappointed. I guess I'll just make a list: 1) recurring transmission problem (shifts hard) it's intermittent and the dealership can never replicate it so they won't fix it 2) passenger airbag sensor only works intermittently, they've changed the whole seat cushion twice, it still doesn't work 3) the air conditioning compressor has been replace twice and a pulley once 4) rear hatch rattling 5) horrible gas mileage, 6) terrible sound system 7) rear floorboard trim keeps popping off 8) air blows out all vents no matter what setting you have it on 9) headlights 10) valve cover gasket is leaking, I would not recommend it!
We love it
The ride is rock solid, fun to drive and plenty of power, seems too tight and tough, enjoying it a lot looking froward to taking a nice long trip .
Fast Fun and Sturdy
I am comparing this vehicle to the jeep liberty I owned for 3 yrs. The 3.8 is incredible. lots of power and very fun. The structure is much more sturdier and stiffer than the liberty which gives my family a safer ride. The styling is sleek and packed into a small structure but not too small. The gas mileage is better than the liberty and WAY faster and quicker. If you are looking for an SUV that is VERY VERY basic with ALOT of get up and go, this is a very cheap way to do it. The passenger air bag light staying on is typical of SUV's so no bother. For the price these things are going for now, you can't pass it up
Best Choice I've made
Just got my Sorento Ex a few weeks ago and couldn't be happier. Had Remote start installed and is awesome getting in the car in the morning and the seat already warm. Had looked at a CR-V and am really glad I didn't get it. Got MUCH more for my money at lower price. Rides GREAT. Had 5in of snow and had to get out before streets were plowed to check the 4WD. Hugged the road as if on dry pavement My ONLY complaint is gas mileage, but have not done any highway driving as yet, so sure it will improve when I do. LOVE sitting up higher, Just have to remember to step down..lol!!! A real pleasure to drive.
4x4 ex Kia Sorento
Purchased this Sorento ex 4x4..to it for a 400 mile test drive and found it to handle well on highway-no unreasonable vibrations, handles well, good turning radius, good acceleration. The seating however, is quite hard. Perhap this can be an improvement for future. Good legroom for driver and passenger, the steering wheel could perhaps elevate higher. The wheel base should be longer to allow for greater back cargo storage. The seats do not fold down well wihout adjusting the headrests.
Just over 1700 miles and loving it
Even though its been just 1700 miles I have to say that I am pleasantly surprised about this SUV. I had a hard time buying a KIA (I've always had Japanese cars before), but i have to say that so far it's been great. I already tested the off road capabilities of it and it handled great, it's a fun car to drive with a lot of power (something to keep in mind when evaluating gas millage). Overall a great buy for a very accessible price.
Good trade-up
I purchased my Sorento and am luvin it. I had a sports car and got tired of it due to a lifestyle change.
Where should I start?
There was a vibration when idling from the start. We took it to the dealer and they kept it off and on for about 5 weeks. They couldn't seem to find the source of the vibration. They replaced a couple of computers; then the transmission,then a module,etc. The vibration is better but still not as quiet as a new car should be. We get about 18/19 mpg. No seat belt light issue at all.The dealership has gone above and beyond to please us,but they now say this is not uncommon in the 2008 model. Why didn't they say that when we first complained? We are disappointed that our first new car in years has/had this problem that's not really fixed. We may trade it before something else happens.
KIA-OK
It rides smoothly and is easy to navigate in and out of traffic. My grown kids really like to drive it. I have had a lot of compliments even a couple who mistook it for a Lexus or Cadillac.
Bang for the Buck Truck
After looking at lots of V6 midsized SUVs, I bought an `08 Sorento LX two weeks ago and have been very happy with it--once I tracked down a rattle up front and a chain-like jingle coming from somewhere in the rear. The rattle was caused by the garage door opener compartment. I fixed it by putting two washcloths in it, which put some pressure on the plastic door, as well as providing some sound baffling. The chain-like jingle was coming from the latch on the rear hatch. Some silicone lubricant put an end to that. With those initial annoyances out of the way, I was free to enjoy the refined character of the Sorento--great looks, good performance, unmatched value. This truck is a real deal.
Smooth Ride, Cheaply Made
Got a very good deal on my 2008 Kia Sorento. Had less than 90K miles when I bought it in June of 2018. The door handles are not so good, they come off easily. I had my car for less than six months before the alternator went out. Cost me about 300.00 (parts and labor), but so far that's the only thing besides the brakes that need to be repaired. Motor has a slight chain-like/rattle noise, reminds me of a Hyundai. I really don't like the way that the dash is set up, the temperature gauge and gas gauge are way too close. I miss the details of my previous car, I had a Nissan Armada. This car is very basic and a few more up to date features would be helpful.
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Protected me in a head on collision
When in a car accident the correct airbags deployed, came out of car conscious with a few scratches, seatbelt left a mark but other than that the car has been super reliable for the time I had it for. Handling on the car was great and good first car!
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Best Value SUV
My wife and I just purchased our 2008 Kia Sorento. We had a 2006 Nissan Murano and was overwhelmed by the Sorento quality and price. We was able to upgrade to the top of the line including DVD, leather, sunroof etc. We took a couple of days to decide but that's just because of the color of the vehicle (midnight Blue /gray) and we could not be happier with our decision. Key issues was the turning ratio, torque, comfort and style of the exterior and interior. No complaints!