Used 2011 Kia Sorento Consumer Reviews
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Quite Satisfied
I have to say, I really like this vehicle so far. Driving is enjoyable. The steering wheel is a bit heavy, but is not a distraction. The V6 engine has plenty of power. My gas mileage keeps going up the more I get used to it. Currently about 20 MPG in mixed driving. I am coming out of an Infiniti M35 and have not missed it. Comparatively, the backup camera is not quite as clear. The Bluetooth Phone connectivity was a bit challenging with two phones connected. Voice recognition is average. I found the transmission gearing a bit close and noticed some RPM pull in some downshifts. Overall I am very happy with the quality and driving impression of this car. Go drive one!
Looks Expensive
This is an awesome vehicle. I love it. Was going in for a Sportage and got this. The only thing that I don't like about it is the cup holders in the console, they are two different sizes and just don't fit right. Also when I get it washed, the hatch back collects soap, I have to ask them to lift it up and wipe it out.
- LX 4dr SUVMSRP: $3,495100 mi away
- LX 4dr SUVMSRP: $3,988172 mi away
- LX 4dr SUVMSRP: $4,995100 mi away
Lovin' our SX
The SX is the way to go; the DFD dampeners make the ride unbelievable. I feel like I am driving an expensive European SUV. The whole family loves it, back seat recline and adds to the spaciousness.
Pull back problems
I love the satellite radio, the Bluetooth so I can answer my phone or make calls by name or number, speaking to the car. Manual 6 speed or auto is fine. Up and down hill support is good too. Seat heaters and sunglasses holder is a great thing to have too.
Best Vehicle!
I love my new Sorento! As of all new models they sometimes have problems, had a recall fix but with no other problems! I wouldn't trade this vehicle for anything. Its so fun to drive and the 4 cyl gets great gas mileage with all the power I need. I would recommend Shottenkirk Kia of Quincy Il to anyone. they are great and really treat their customers from everything to the sale to follow up to service!
2011 Kia Sorento
The Sorento looks and acts expensive, however, is very affordable. The V6 offers plenty of power, for full loads or towing, and purrs along smoothly and effortlessly thanks to the 6-speed automatic transmission. Shifts are smooth and unrecognizable, however, under full throttle, responds with noticable torque. Plus, it runs on 87 octaine. The key less entry and push button starter are fun, but keeps you wondering where the house key is. The Bluetooth commands do not recognize voice commands very well. The 3rd row seating hides nicely when not in use and are easily brought into function for younger passengers. Overall, the Sorento looks and is impressive and fun to drive.
Very poor gas mileage
45,XXX update. Sold a Jett TDI to buy this car and loved it until recently when I realized the gas mileage would never climb above 23.5 MPG. For many of you it might be acceptable but that's the good part, when the MN weather comes calling, I can't get above 20 MPG. So maybe you think I stand on the gas peddal, not a chance...we're talking easy 65 mph on the highway and some county roads with a little bit of town driving. With my wife driving it around a small town all week, I pull 18 MPG. I really want to love this car but the gas mileage is terrible. My 2012 VW passat at 10K miles is pulling and easy 33-34 MPG. Sorry Kia, you've lost a customer who really wanted to stay with youl.
Clicking noise
I had my sorento LX since May 2011, I love everything about it except the clicking noise it make everytime I press on the brakes. The noise comes out from the gear box. 3 time I taken the car to the service department and every single time I'm told that It's suppose to be that way. If I wanted a car with a noise I would have walk in to the used car lot. I also want to comment on the service It is horrible, evreytime I take my car for service they take 5 minutes and tell me that there is nothing wrong with my car. I also spoke with Kia Custumer Assitance and they say there is nothing they could do. Is anyone else have the same problem?
Unreliable car.
"I have Kia Sorrento for 4 months only and it was in repairs twice already! 4000 miles on the car. Last month was an oil leak.This month - the transmission stopped shiffting and I couldnot stop the car! Unreliable! I always bought american cars and had them for 10-11 years, with regular wear and tear. This is the first time that I decided to buy non-american car, and let me tell you, you get what you pay for! GARBAGE!!! For $ 6000 more you can buy Ford or Jeep and have no problems! Do not buy this car, unless you want to have a big problem in a couple of months."
safety problem
my daughter and I have owned this car for 2 years, both back seatbelts are fraying in the same spots. They said because there are dog hairs in the car the dog must have chewed them. My daughter is a dog groomer, she does have a dog but it would be impossible for him to chew them considering where they are wearing (inside the housing). These are my grand children, they deserve to be safe. they said they are not covered....what the heck!!!!!
- Performance
Don't waste your cash!
We purchased this car because of the warranty and the fact of having good luck with Hyundais. Our test drive was a couple of blocks, our mistake, bought the car. This is the roughest riding car I have ever driven, acts like it doesn't even have shocks. The Kia Rep. was in town, took our car for a drive and we were told that the roughness was due to the 17" wheels which are on the LX models, paid over $22,000 less than three months ago, they offered $17,500 trade-in on he EX model. I called the Kia Factory and they said we would just have to live with if or put 18" wheels at our expense. My advice is. STAY AWAY FROM THE HYUNDAI AND KIA CARS, the warranty is not worth it.
160,000 miles strong!
This car is a beast. I know it should be time to upgrade, but I can’t bring myself to get rid of a car with zero issues. Aside from some minor maintenance on wearable parts as expected, my Sorento has given us 160,000 problem free miles. I’ve got the SX trim and the leather is still immaculate due to the high quality materials. I couldn’t be happier.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
2011 Sorento LX
I have owned my Sorento for about a month. Didn't notice a real rough ride on test drive (test model had different wheels/ tires), but the ride is horrible!!! This isn't as some describe as a stiff ride, think more like a vehicle having about 120,000 miles on it right out of the gate. Actually that may be better. The DFD shocks that are fitted in the SX (now on all models?) may help a little. I will be complaining to my dealer and Kia regarding this and if unresolved I guess I will take a "bath" and trade it in for a non Kia vehicle. This may have been my worse purchase I have ever made, depending on how kia handles the situation.
transmission went kapoof at 25k miles
Car: 2011 base model, 4cyl. Transmission went kapoof at 25k miles. I rolled it into a stop sign then suddenly, loud grinding sound and the car won't move anymore. The engine still runs but car won't move. Towed it to the dealer and they replaced the transmission (for free) under warranty. It took them 4 days to fix. No loaner/rental car was provided..."it is not in KIA's policy" The car was never driven hard. I hope a recall would be issued regarding the transmission problem that people are having. When that warranty runs out....watch out $$$ One of the tire pressure sensor keeps leaking air. The seal on the valve is crap. Fix: replaced it with a traditional non-tps valve.
Loved 2010 Soul/Amazed by 2011 Sporento
I bought 2 Kias last year, a used 2009 Spectra for my son, and new Soul for me. Both are great cars. No problems. When the 2011 Sorento came out, it was a no brainer - I traded my sweet little Soul in and upgraded to the top of the line Sorento V6, and I am in heaven! The Sorento is AWESOME! I am sold on KIA. My Toyota/Honda friends are still shocked and dumbfounded at the incredible cars KIA is making! PS - I traded a Toyota Solara for the SOUL last year, and once I got a taste of KIA quality, all that space, bluetooth, satelite radio, etc, I was sold! PS - the Sorento V6 is definitely worth the loss of a couple of miles per gallon of gasoline over any V4!
Worst suspension
It's almost perfect until it rolls onto small road bumps. Bad noisy annoying suspension! It drives nice on smooth roads but never on the smallest pot holes. Do not buy if you drive in NYC/ Jersey city roads. This issue should be recalled by Kia with all the complains all over the Internet. I want to drive other customers sorento who says they have no suggestion for improvements.
Great Value, but you get what you pay for.
We have a 2005 Sorento with a 158,000 relatively trouble free miles. So when we went car shopping, looking at a new Kia seemed logical. We have had this 2011 Sorento for 2 weeks and 749 miles. We get about 22.5 mpg due to the hilly commute to work. We chose the Sorento after test driving a 2009 Cadillac CTS, Optima Turbo S, and a cool white tiger Soul. We sat in a Forte' but deemed it too small for our comfort. We couldn't help but compare all the different ride qualities to the Cadillac CTS. Surprisingly the Sorento's ride quality is comparable to the Cadillac, although somewhat noisier. The Kumo tires are good but occasionally sound like over inflated balloons when driving over rough road.
Follow-up
I currently have 45,000 miles on the Sorento and interior plastic is starting to crack in the door panels. The car is more hesitant in acceleration than it was previously and the original Kuhmo tires are by far the worse tires that I have ever driven in snow. The summer performance tires that I have had on rear wheel drive cars got around better than this awd vehicle. Got new Michelins this winter, but no snow to test them yet.
Hoped for more
I bought mine used last year a 2011. Had a few problems in the beginning but they fixed it. It seems it was electrical and needed a software update and something about a brake switch. Other than that it has been running good. The battery does wear down quickly. The engine runs louder than what I think a new car should. Coming up on 30K service so will have it checked. Also the gas mileage is terrible. Not sure how some people are getting 22-23 in city on a V6 AWD. I get 15mpg but I am probably avg speed 35 and a lot of stop and go. Maybe that has something to do with it. But also on highway I haven't gotten more than 21mpg. Considering trading it in but wondering, con't below...
Eye Candy leaves you with a sour taste!
2011 Sorento EX with sun-roof and convenience pkg. V6. 3,500 mi This vehicle had a bold, yet classy exterior look.Very appealing from most angles and in most colors. Dark Cherry is still my favorite and glad I chose it (even though you lose some contrast with the various black trim (ie. fog lmaps). Interior is very nice even with cloth seats. Modern and classy (Plastic dash and arm rest could use better materials). Radio is Fair. Sun-roof broke within a few uses and makes annoying vibrations and rattles. Breaks are weak and can be grabby. Transmission has horrible down shift at ~30 mph.Suspension is terrible like a go-cart! Several vibrations and rattles inside. Ride decent on smooth roads.
Rusting
My fully loaded Sorento has been in several times since purchasing in November 2010. Two recalls, and one visit to fix the pull to the right. There is a constant squeek in the drivers seat. The Stereo cuts in and out. The ride is brutal. Everything in the truck rattles due to the harsh ride. I was disappointed to find out that the suspension was upgraded in the fourth quarter last year on all 2011 Kia Sorentos. Imagine my anger to discover that the tailgate is bubbling and has started to rust above the chrome strip. The dealership has decided to repaint it! You pay $43,000 for a vehicle and they are going to repaint it? Frustrating and upsetting.
KIA's new 2011 Sorento takes on the other guys and wins!
Yep..I know that car magazines get advertising money paid by all the auto manufacturers. And some reviewers are also funded by them. So their reviews may be skewed by Not me! I don't get paid by any manufacturer. And this is my review on the 2011 KIA Sorento SX! We research a lot before we buy just about any major purchase. We've had 17 new cars in the past 21 years. Toyota sedans, sports cars (MR2 Supercharged!), and SUVs. Honda Sedans and SUV, Dodges, Several Ford SUVs and 2 mini-vans, etc. And we are informed buyers, and PICKY! So when we went shopping it was to replace our Mazda5 "van"...which we were giving to our Daughter for college.
Great Crossover
We have had our Sorento for 3 weeks now. Taken a couple of extended trips. 25 mph on highway, 21 in city (2500 miles so far). Rides stiff, but I knew that and like that ride. No rattles. Bluetooth works great; love the styling in and out.
Happy what a deal
Wow me and my wife love this unit very comfortable, quiet, awesome stereo, touch screen nav, cargo room heated leather, easy to reach controls on dash oh yes the smart key is to cool no need to have in hand car senses it's close and will let you unlock doors, lift gate at touch of button on handles and start engine with push of button while key stored in purse or pocket. Test drove Chevy nox and the ride was no better no quieter and a lot more $$$ for same package nav, leather. And the mileage on all new cars is poor till they are broken in. Usally 1000 miles then the engine seats in then economy gets rolling get the ex lpk, pk1 package and you will smile when you compare to the competitors and no waiting
Good but no cigar
Overall love the Kia but transmission issues and poor gas mileage are spoiling the experience. We keep hoping for some long term improvements.
2011 Sorento 6 cyl AWD
I had this car for about a month now and have been very satisfied so far. It is fully loaded with Nav, premium sound, leather seats, sun roof, etc. I would have paid easily another $2-3K with any other competitor. Anyone who is picky about road and engine noise should stick to 6 cyl with this model. I test drove 4 cyl models, there was a BIG difference. It is worth paying the additional $1500-$2000. After driving an '02 Ford Explorer, this vehicle feels like a luxury car made from high quality materials. I liked the fact the KIA offers standard 10yr/100K mile warranty. I would have paid easily another $1500 with the competition for the extended warranty.
Happy Buyer
We researched many vehicles before deciding on the Sorento. We debated between the 4 and 6 cylinder and decided on the 4 since we did not want 3rd row seats. We took it on a trip through the PA mountains and had no problems with power. Good at acceleration and hill climbing. We averaged 27 mpg on highway and 22 mpg city. I was a little concerned about ride comfort, but after this trip found it to be more comfortable than the Grand Caravan we traded. Leather seats with lumbar support helped. The biggest drawback is the cost to replace 18 in tires when the time comes. Overall a very pleasant ride and so far we are pleased with the purchase.
Problems with sorento
Have only had my Sorento for 3 weeks, immediately started to have a thumping noise when starting the car. At times the car would move when started. Took to service, they had the car for 2 days and "never heard the noise". When I started the car to bring it home it made the noise. Was given a brand new Kia Sorento with 100 miles on it as a loaner- It cut off on me 2 times and the engine light was on when I returned to pick up my car! Problem still not resolved! Returning to service in a few days! So disappointing!
Suggested Improvements
Had Kia since May. So far, It's good until it rolls onto any size road bump. Bad noisy, jarring & annoying suspension! It drives nice on smooth roads but you feel every bump to the point that you are shaken up. Camera is irritating, it blocks your vision. Radio power button stop working. Other features are commendable. Had major problems with Nationwide Dealership in Timonium MD. Very long story made short, got a call 3 wks after purchase saying I had to pay 3,800 more for my trade in. 2 mths later, they still have not paid off my trade in, which is now affecting my good credit.
Great Mid-sized SUV
Live in Colorado. Really like the power of the 6-cylinder engine in the mountains. Fuel economy is really pretty good for the type of driving I do, also. Getting about 20 MPG. Love the panoramic sunroof, audio system, and GPS. Bluetooth and Speech recognition work well also. All wheel drive has worked fine in the snow so far. Car is brand new, so there aren't a lot of accessories yet. 276 HP engine moves this along well.
A winner for the money
Rides and handles well for a medium size SUV. I disagree with those who say the 4 cyl is slow. We have no problems either in town or the mountains although mileage could be better. Lots of standard features for the money. More room than a Subaru Forester and those bring a premium price here in the NE.
Rear sunroof Problem!
Leaving the lot in new sorento and realized the rear sunroof cover wouldn't open. Salesman couldn't open it either but assured me Service could take care of it with no problem. 5 weeks later I am still dealing with this. It is a Kia problem that the dealership has never seen before although apparently there are several cars on lot with this problem. They had to take the entire interior roof lining out and redo the whole sunroof. Two days to fix. Never drive it off the lot with a problem, even if they tell you it's an easy fix.
Best bang for the buck on 4 wheels
I am a car nut. My family of 4 share and rotate 5 autos and in any given year i will buy 2 new autos. The 2011 Sorento is one of the very best. I was worried that a 4 cylinder might be to weak to haul 3300lb around So California. I am happy to say this crossover is a champ and rides very quiet and well. The feel is tight and might be a little bumpy for some. If you do plan on towing or have lots of gear- kids you may need the 6 cyl. especially in mountain area.
Our kia experience
We just bought our 2011 Kia Sorento and it is wonderful. It has been a joy to drive. It is very smooth and comfortable. Also it is very economical on fuel which helps during this day and time.
So far so good
2011 sorento after 4 months has performed flawlessly. Mileage has avg 26 mpg on country roads. 4 cyl has ad power and acceleration. No problems in 4000 miles. Very happy with it.
Honda Pilot Beater Update
We bought the V6 2011 Sorento with Navi, Panoramic Sunroof etc., etc. (loaded) in Mid April 2010. We have driven it almost 5,000 miles and we continue to be very pleased with it. I would soften the front seat center armrest and I still like the look of dual exhaust, but our Sorento hasn't suffered from squeaks, rattles or any other significant problems. The transmission seems to hesitate when I start forward on a hill so I am going to raise the issue with the dealer at the 5k oil change. Other than that, no problems to report.
Pleased
Bought the KIA in Sept of 2010. Originally went for Hyundai, but after road testing both, decided on the KIA. Have never regretted the choice. Good combined mileage ( we have V6) and good performance. Look forward to taking long trip to really appreciate the vehicle.
My leap of faith to KIA
Owned Toyotas and Hondas, liked new design enough to try the KIA brand. Have had for 2 weeks, so far lots to like. Feels different than past cars owned, not quite as "refined" in spots, but makes up for it with overall design execution.
Great car, but some minor bugs
I have had my Serento now since the end of March. I put in all the bells and whistles and had it fully loaded. I love all the extras I was able to get for the price. I like the ride qaulity, it is a little bumpy bet besides this the V6 has good power for the fuel economy. The interior is much better than many of the same cars in its class. I loved the two-tone leather seats that were available. Bugs- Shuttering sunroof, finish on the door handle is peeling off, and have a bad tire (not sure if that is because of me or the tire was bad quality). I will update more, it has only been 4 months.
Goodbye Toyota, Hello KIA!
I could not believe I was signing a contract at KIA for my new Sorento. After owning several Toyotas, I would never had thought a KIA would sway my emotions so much. I love this vehicle. Great performance, awesome fuel economy (averaging 22mpg without being broken in), looks great. I have had people ask me is that the new MDX! No other vehicle I looked at matched the feature content and driving excitement. Dealer was fantastic and seemed just as exciting for me with my new Sorento. KIA is living up to its moto....the power to surprise!
Love this car!
This car handles like a dream. Great on winding roads and great on gas. Plenty of room for my weekend job of craft shows. Through the week, all my grandbabies fit in it at once. Love the new body style. Looks like a more expensive car at an affordable price. My husband even loves this car!
5k mile update
Zero reliability problems after 5k miles and mileage slowly improving. Only complaint is occasional loss of satellite signal. Re: mileage, if you actually set cruise control at 65 mph and inflate tires to spec, it really does get 28-29 mpg. Of course, i usually drive 75 mph, then its 24.5. Some minor suspension noise on uneven roads, mostly from right front side - but maybe other Sorentos have it worse b/c mine really isn't bad, and still quieter than any Honda. Nice firm ride and great handling is a trade-off I'll accept over floaty ride of RAV4. Road noise on good roads VERY low. No rattles in this car whatsoever and size is just right - easy to park in town, big enough for stuff/people
Everyone Needs One
This car is amazing and kia did everything right. There is no need for AWD with the stability control in the snow. This car is the best available for the price.
Suspension rattle
I just talked to a Kia rep for consumers affairs and explained to her that I thought the suspension is too hard and rattles in the back. After reviewing other reviews I realized this is the number one concern of most people. In addition, the tires are way too hard and do not help the suspension system. So far, the rest is ok.
I just love my new Sorento!
I've had the 2011 Sorento for about a month, and I absolutely love it. It's great looking, fun to drive, and everything we were looking for. I also really like the keyless feature. I never have to waste time looking for lost keys. I just leave the key in my purse (luckily, I never lose my purse). If you don't know how this works, you just need your key remote in your pocket or purse and it detects when you are about a foot away from your car so you can unlock and lock your car without having to pull it out. Also convenient when returning to the car with grocery bags - no fumbling with keys - just press the button and open the car. :)
Transmission
The car drove good, but at 20,000 miles the Transmission went out. Kia repaired it at no cost. I do not feel that I have a new car any longer. I have asked Kia to give me a new vehicle but they only offer to pay 1 month payment.
Very solid
The ride is smooth. Some might complain about going over bumps, but in reality, who drives on bumps all the time? When on the freeway and going 75 mph, it is very smooth. On streets and avenues, the ride is comfortable. I have driven in BMW's X5, Lexus and the ride difference is minuscule. I'm not interested in a bunch of bells and whistles, I want a good radio, blue tooth and iPod hookup. And it has all of that. This SUV gets me from point (a) to point (b). In reality, that is all you want.
Chose it over a Honda CR-V
Traded my 2008 Honda S2000 for KIA Ex V6 with Navigation, leather and sunroof. We also own a 2007 KIA V6 Sportage. In 2.5 years this car has never had maintenance issues. The 2011 Kia Sorento drives REALLY good, nice pep, corners well, and a really good sound system. The Navigation works well, better then the portable ones. The blue-tooth I don't know how I have lived without it. 3rd row seats I can do without. Nice leather on the seats but the quality of the plastics on the Interior could get better but is better then the CR_V. Don't know much about the gas mileage yet, I have only put 120 miles on it. My only complaints is that it tends to turn when the road is not level.
KIA is getting better
We chose this car over Honda CR-V, Hyundai Tucson, because this car felt very smooth, comfortable, lots of room and it sits high, so easy to drive.
Update vs RAV4 Review 09-24-10
Never buy 1st year model! The latest on my Kia is the master cylinder went bad. Always had a "soft" brake pedal. Took it in to be checked. Needed a new master cylinder. Had to order new one. Dealer "fixed it"? two days later. Next morning pedal almost went to floor! Back to dealer. I didn't find ant TSB on a problem w/brakes. Won't get back for three days! Also problem w/pulling to right. Mechanic cross rotated tires to fix problem. Said was "radial pull". I already had tires rotated at last service. Didn't help. Haven't driven it much since brake problem, so can't verify if fixed. So what is the big deal on the warranty if you have to continue bringing it to dealer for repairs!