Kia Sorento research: recalls, reliability and buyer's guide

The Sorento is Kia's practical midsize family SUV, smaller than the Telluride but with an available or standard third row. Older models offer V6 power; 2021-and-later Sorentos use efficient four-cylinders, including a 281-hp turbo, a roughly 37-mpg hybrid and a plug-in hybrid with about 30 miles of electric range. 2012-2019 GDI four-cylinders should be checked for engine recall work and knock-sensor software.

Model years covered: 2011–2026. 2026 is a carryover of the 2024-refreshed fourth generation; verify 2026 trims and equipment against current Kia data. 2027 models are outside this file's window.

Last updated 2026-10-15.

Strengths

Available or standard third row
Wide choice of powertrains
Efficient hybrid and PHEV
Strong value for equipment
Available AWD
Comfortable family cabin

Things to know before you buy

Direct injection engine recalls on 2012 2019 four cylinders
Third row is tight for adults
Dual clutch feel on 2.5 liter turbo
Several fire risk recalls to confirm
2016 and 2021 redesigns are key dividing lines
Recall status should be checked by VIN

Generations

Generation 2 (2011–2015)

The second-generation Sorento (2011-2015) became a unibody crossover built in Georgia. It offered a 175-hp 2.4L, a 191-hp 2.4L GDI from 2012 and a 276-hp 3.5L V6, then a 290-hp 3.3L V6 after the extensive 2014 refresh. All use 6-speed transmissions (a manual on base FWD models), with FWD or AWD and an optional small third row.

Buyer takeaway: A 2014-2015 V6 is the most refined of this generation. On 2.4L GDI cars, confirm the engine recalls and knock-sensor update; on every car, confirm the ABS-module fuse recall.

Generation 3 (2016–2020)

The third-generation Sorento (2016-2020) grew larger and more upscale, with a 185-hp 2.4L GDI, a 240-hp 2.0L turbo (2016-2018) and a 290-hp 3.3L V6. The 2019 refresh made three rows standard and gave the V6 an 8-speed automatic.

Buyer takeaway: A 2019-2020 V6 with the 8-speed is a strong used family pick. GDI four-cylinders are covered by Kia's engine settlement; confirm the KSDS software so the lifetime engine warranty applies, and check the tow-hitch recall.

Generation 4 (2021–present)

The fourth-generation Sorento (2021-present) offers a 191-hp 2.5L (8-speed automatic), a 281-hp, 311 lb-ft 2.5L turbo (8-speed wet dual-clutch), a 227-hp 1.6L turbo hybrid and, from 2022, a 261-hp plug-in hybrid. A 2024 refresh brought new styling, a curved dual-screen dash and X-Pro trims.

Buyer takeaway: Choose the hybrid for the best mpg, the turbo for towing and power, or the plug-in for short electric commutes. Confirm 2021-2023 recall campaigns by VIN.

Kia Sorento by model year

2026 Kia Sorento

The 2026 Sorento carries over unchanged: a 191-hp 2.5L (LX, S), a 281-hp 2.5L turbo (EX and up, towing up to 4,000 lb), a 227-hp hybrid (about 36 mpg combined FWD) and a 261-hp plug-in hybrid (about 30 electric miles). It keeps the 2024 refresh styling and curved dual-screen dash; verify 2026 trim content against current Kia data.

Engines: 2.5 liter I4 191 hp 181 lb ft; 2.5 liter turbo I4 281 hp 311 lb ft; 1.6 liter turbo hybrid 227 hp 258 lb ft; 1.6 liter turbo plug in hybrid 261 hp
Transmissions: 8 speed automatic; 8 speed wet dual clutch turbo only; 6 speed automatic hybrid
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
Body style: 5 door midsize crossover SUV

What changed:

No notable changes reported
Turbo tows up to 4000 lb

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Dual clutch low speed behavior on turbo; Plug in hybrid battery and charging if PHEV; Exact engine seating and drivetrain by VIN; AWD coupling and matching tires if equipped; Oil level and oil change history; Transmission shift quality; Third row and seat folding mechanisms; Tire and brake condition; Infotainment and cameras.

2025 Kia Sorento

The 2025 Sorento changes little after the 2024 refresh: black badging on X-Line and X-Pro and a new paint color. Choose from the 191-hp 2.5L, 281-hp turbo, 227-hp hybrid (about 36 mpg combined FWD) or 261-hp plug-in hybrid (about 30 miles of electric range).

Engines: 2.5 liter I4 191 hp 181 lb ft; 2.5 liter turbo I4 281 hp 311 lb ft; 1.6 liter turbo hybrid 227 hp 258 lb ft; 1.6 liter turbo plug in hybrid 261 hp
Transmissions: 8 speed automatic; 8 speed wet dual clutch turbo only; 6 speed automatic hybrid
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
Body style: 5 door midsize crossover SUV

What changed:

Black badging on x line and x pro
New panthera metal paint

2024 Kia Sorento

The 2024 refresh brought a bolder grille, vertical headlights, new taillights and a curved dual-screen dash. Powertrains carry over: 191-hp 2.5L (about 26 mpg combined FWD), 281-hp 2.5L turbo (about 25 mpg), 227-hp hybrid and 261-hp plug-in hybrid. Rugged X-Line and X-Pro versions are offered.

Engines: 2.5 liter I4 191 hp 181 lb ft; 2.5 liter turbo I4 281 hp 311 lb ft; 1.6 liter turbo hybrid 227 hp 258 lb ft; 1.6 liter turbo plug in hybrid 261 hp
Transmissions: 8 speed automatic; 8 speed wet dual clutch turbo only; 6 speed automatic hybrid
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
Body style: 5 door midsize crossover SUV

What changed:

New grille vertical headlights and taillights
Curved dual display dash
X line and x pro rugged trims

2023 Kia Sorento

The 2023 Sorento adds more standard safety and convenience features while keeping the 191-hp 2.5L, 281-hp turbo (8-speed dual-clutch), 227-hp hybrid (about 37 mpg combined FWD) and 261-hp plug-in hybrid. It is the last year before the 2024 refresh. Check the HVAC blower wiring recall by VIN.

Engines: 2.5 liter I4 191 hp 181 lb ft; 2.5 liter turbo I4 281 hp 311 lb ft; 1.6 liter turbo hybrid 227 hp 258 lb ft; 1.6 liter turbo plug in hybrid 261 hp
Transmissions: 8 speed automatic; 8 speed wet dual clutch turbo only; 6 speed automatic hybrid
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
Body style: 5 door midsize crossover SUV

What changed:

More standard driver assistance
More standard features across trims

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Climate blower harness recall status; Dual clutch low speed behavior on turbo; Plug in hybrid battery and charging if PHEV; Exact engine seating and drivetrain by VIN; AWD coupling and matching tires if equipped; Oil level and oil change history; Transmission shift quality; Third row and seat folding mechanisms; Tire and brake condition; Infotainment and cameras.

2022 Kia Sorento

For 2022 Kia added the Sorento Plug-in Hybrid (261 hp, AWD, about 32 miles of EPA electric range) to the 191-hp 2.5L, 281-hp 2.5L turbo and 227-hp hybrid. The turbo is standard on EX and above. Confirm the transmission fail-safe and tow-hitch recalls by VIN.

Engines: 2.5 liter I4 191 hp 181 lb ft; 2.5 liter turbo I4 281 hp 311 lb ft; 1.6 liter turbo hybrid 227 hp 258 lb ft; 1.6 liter turbo plug in hybrid 261 hp
Transmissions: 8 speed automatic; 8 speed wet dual clutch turbo only; 6 speed automatic hybrid
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
Body style: 5 door midsize crossover SUV

What changed:

Plug in hybrid added with about 32 miles electric range
Turbo standard on mid and upper trims

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Transmission oil pump recall status; Climate blower harness recall status; Dual clutch low speed behavior on turbo; Plug in hybrid battery and charging if PHEV; Tow hitch harness recall status if equipped; Exact engine seating and drivetrain by VIN; AWD coupling and matching tires if equipped; Oil level and oil change history; Transmission shift quality; Third row and seat folding mechanisms; Tire and brake condition; Infotainment and cameras.

2021 Kia Sorento

The redesigned 2021 Sorento has a 191-hp 2.5L with an 8-speed automatic, a 281-hp, 311 lb-ft 2.5L turbo with an 8-speed wet dual-clutch, and the first Sorento Hybrid (227 hp, about 39/35 mpg FWD). Three rows and available captain's chairs are standard fare. Several 2021-2022 recalls (turbo fuel leak, transmission fail-safe) apply by VIN.

Engines: 2.5 liter I4 191 hp 181 lb ft; 2.5 liter turbo I4 281 hp 311 lb ft; 1.6 liter turbo hybrid 227 hp 258 lb ft
Transmissions: 8 speed automatic; 8 speed wet dual clutch turbo only; 6 speed automatic hybrid
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
Body style: 5 door midsize crossover SUV

What changed:

All new fourth generation
First sorento hybrid
281 hp 2.5 liter turbo with dual clutch
Available second row captains chairs

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Turbo fuel pipe recall status; Transmission oil pump recall status; Climate blower harness recall status; Dual clutch low speed behavior on turbo; Tow hitch harness recall status if equipped; Exact engine seating and drivetrain by VIN; AWD coupling and matching tires if equipped; Oil level and oil change history; Transmission shift quality; Third row and seat folding mechanisms; Tire and brake condition; Infotainment and cameras.

2020 Kia Sorento

The 2020 Sorento is the last third-generation model and the last with a V6: a 185-hp 2.4L (6-speed, about 25 mpg combined FWD) or 290-hp 3.3L V6 (8-speed). Standard three rows and the V6's 8-speed make it a strong-value family pick. GDI 2.4L models are covered by Kia's engine settlement through 2019 only, so check engine history; confirm the tow-hitch recall if equipped.

Engines: 2.4 liter direct injection I4 185 hp 178 lb ft; 3.3 liter direct injection V6 290 hp 252 lb ft
Transmissions: 6 speed automatic; 8 speed automatic V6 only
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
Body style: 5 door midsize crossover SUV

What changed:

Largely carryover
Last year of the V6 and third generation

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Engine knock or oil consumption check; Tow hitch harness recall status if equipped; Exact engine seating and drivetrain by VIN; AWD coupling and matching tires if equipped; Oil level and oil change history; Transmission shift quality; Third row and seat folding mechanisms; Tire and brake condition; Infotainment and cameras.

2019 Kia Sorento

The 2019 refresh updated the styling and cabin, made a third row standard, dropped the 2.0L turbo and gave the 290-hp V6 a new 8-speed automatic (about 22 mpg combined FWD). The 185-hp 2.4L GDI keeps a 6-speed. Lane-keeping and driver-attention warning became available.

Engines: 2.4 liter direct injection I4 185 hp 178 lb ft; 3.3 liter direct injection V6 290 hp 252 lb ft
Transmissions: 6 speed automatic; 8 speed automatic V6 only
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
Body style: 5 door midsize crossover SUV

What changed:

V6 gains 8 speed automatic
Third row standard on every trim
2.0 liter turbo dropped
Refreshed styling and lane keeping available

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Engine recall and knock sensor software status; Engine knock or oil consumption check; Kia engine settlement lifetime warranty eligibility; Tow hitch harness recall status if equipped; Exact engine seating and drivetrain by VIN; AWD coupling and matching tires if equipped; Oil level and oil change history; Transmission shift quality; Third row and seat folding mechanisms; Tire and brake condition; Infotainment and cameras.

2018 Kia Sorento

The 2018 Sorento keeps the 185-hp 2.4L, 240-hp 2.0L turbo (about 22-23 mpg combined) and 290-hp V6, all with a 6-speed automatic. It is the last year of the 2.0L turbo and the two-row version before the 2019 refresh. Confirm GDI engine recall and knock-sensor software status by VIN.

Engines: 2.4 liter direct injection I4 185 hp 178 lb ft; 2.0 liter turbo direct injection I4 240 hp 260 lb ft; 3.3 liter direct injection V6 290 hp 252 lb ft
Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
Body style: 5 door midsize crossover SUV

What changed:

Largely carryover
Last year of the 2.0 liter turbo and two row seating

2017 Kia Sorento

The 2017 Sorento carries over the 185-hp 2.4L GDI, 240-hp 2.0L turbo and 290-hp 3.3L V6 with a 6-speed automatic and FWD or AWD, in two- or three-row form. Ask whether the knock-sensor software is installed, which keeps the settlement's lifetime engine warranty in effect on GDI four-cylinders.

Engines: 2.4 liter direct injection I4 185 hp 178 lb ft; 2.0 liter turbo direct injection I4 240 hp 260 lb ft; 3.3 liter direct injection V6 290 hp 252 lb ft
Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
Body style: 5 door midsize crossover SUV

What changed:

Largely carryover
Three engine lineup continues

2016 Kia Sorento

The redesigned 2016 Sorento is larger and more upscale, with two- or three-row seating. Engines: 185-hp 2.4L GDI (about 21/28 mpg FWD), new 240-hp, 260 lb-ft 2.0L turbo and 290-hp 3.3L V6, all with a 6-speed automatic. 2.4L and 2.0L turbo GDI engines are covered by Kia's engine settlement through 2019.

Engines: 2.4 liter direct injection I4 185 hp 178 lb ft; 2.0 liter turbo direct injection I4 240 hp 260 lb ft; 3.3 liter direct injection V6 290 hp 252 lb ft
Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
Body style: 5 door midsize crossover SUV

What changed:

All new third generation
New 240 hp 2.0 liter turbo
Two row or three row seating
Adaptive cruise and surround view camera available

2015 Kia Sorento

The 2015 Sorento is the last second-generation model, with the 191-hp 2.4L GDI (about 20/27 mpg FWD) or 290-hp 3.3L V6 (about 18/25 mpg FWD) and a 6-speed automatic. It offers the 2014 updates for less money; confirm the 2.4L GDI knock-sensor software and settlement coverage by VIN.

Engines: 2.4 liter direct injection I4 191 hp 181 lb ft; 3.3 liter direct injection V6 290 hp 252 lb ft
Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
Body style: 5 door midsize crossover SUV

What changed:

Largely carryover
Last year of the second generation

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Engine recall and knock sensor software status; Engine knock or oil consumption check; Kia engine settlement lifetime warranty eligibility; Exact engine seating and drivetrain by VIN; AWD coupling and matching tires if equipped; Oil level and oil change history; Transmission shift quality; Third row and seat folding mechanisms; Tire and brake condition; Infotainment and cameras.

2014 Kia Sorento

The 2014 refresh renewed most of the Sorento: a 191-hp, 181 lb-ft 2.4L GDI and a new 290-hp, 252 lb-ft 3.3L V6 replaced the old engines, with LED accents, UVO eServices and a new top SXL trim. Both use a 6-speed automatic; the V6 is rated about 18/23-25 mpg. 2.4L GDI cars fall under engine recalls and the settlement.

Engines: 2.4 liter direct injection I4 191 hp 181 lb ft; 3.3 liter direct injection V6 290 hp 252 lb ft
Transmissions: 6 speed automatic; 6 speed manual base FWD only
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
Body style: 5 door midsize crossover SUV

What changed:

New 290 hp 3.3 liter V6 replaces 3.5 liter
About 80 percent of parts new or redesigned
Connected services and LED lighting
New top luxury trim

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Engine recall and knock sensor software status; Engine knock or oil consumption check; Kia engine settlement lifetime warranty eligibility; Abs module fuse park outside recall status; Exact engine seating and drivetrain by VIN; AWD coupling and matching tires if equipped; Oil level and oil change history; Transmission shift quality; Third row and seat folding mechanisms; Tire and brake condition; Infotainment and cameras.

2013 Kia Sorento

The 2013 Sorento carries over the 175-hp 2.4L, 191-hp 2.4L GDI and 276-hp 3.5L V6 with a 6-speed automatic and FWD or AWD. It is the last year before the heavily revised 2014. GDI engines are included in engine recalls and Kia's engine settlement, so check the VIN.

Engines: 2.4 liter I4 175 hp; 2.4 liter direct injection I4 191 hp; 3.5 liter V6 276 hp
Transmissions: 6 speed automatic; 6 speed manual base FWD only
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
Body style: 5 door midsize crossover SUV

What changed:

Largely carryover
Last year of the 3.5 liter V6

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Engine recall and knock sensor software status; Engine knock or oil consumption check; Kia engine settlement lifetime warranty eligibility; Abs module fuse park outside recall status; Exact engine seating and drivetrain by VIN; AWD coupling and matching tires if equipped; Oil level and oil change history; Transmission shift quality; Third row and seat folding mechanisms; Tire and brake condition; Infotainment and cameras.

2012 Kia Sorento

For 2012 Kia added a 191-hp direct-injected 2.4L GDI engine (up to about 21/30 mpg FWD) alongside the 175-hp 2.4L and 276-hp 3.5L V6. 2012-2014 Sorentos with GDI engines are covered by engine recalls and Kia's engine settlement, so confirm the knock-sensor software and any engine inspection by VIN.

Engines: 2.4 liter I4 175 hp; 2.4 liter direct injection I4 191 hp; 3.5 liter V6 276 hp
Transmissions: 6 speed automatic; 6 speed manual base FWD only
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
Body style: 5 door midsize crossover SUV

What changed:

New 191 hp 2.4 liter direct injection engine added
Highway rating up to 30 mpg on direct injection FWD

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Engine recall and knock sensor software status; Engine knock or oil consumption check; Kia engine settlement lifetime warranty eligibility; Abs module fuse park outside recall status; Exact engine seating and drivetrain by VIN; AWD coupling and matching tires if equipped; Oil level and oil change history; Transmission shift quality; Third row and seat folding mechanisms; Tire and brake condition; Infotainment and cameras.

2011 Kia Sorento

The 2011 Sorento switched from a truck-based SUV to a car-like unibody crossover built in Georgia, with an optional small third row. Engines are a 175-hp 2.4L four (about 21/28 mpg FWD) and a 276-hp 3.5L V6 (about 20/25 mpg FWD), with a 6-speed automatic (a manual on the base 2.4L). Check the ABS-module fuse recall by VIN.

Engines: 2.4 liter I4 175 hp; 3.5 liter V6 276 hp
Transmissions: 6 speed automatic; 6 speed manual base FWD only
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive
Body style: 5 door midsize crossover SUV

What changed:

All new unibody crossover replaces body on frame SUV
Built in west point georgia
Available third row
New 6 speed transmissions

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Abs module fuse park outside recall status; Intermediate shaft recall status; Exact engine seating and drivetrain by VIN; AWD coupling and matching tires if equipped; Oil level and oil change history; Transmission shift quality; Third row and seat folding mechanisms; Tire and brake condition; Infotainment and cameras.

Known issues and what to check

GDI Four-Cylinder Engine Recalls and Kia Engine Settlement (2012–2019)
Sorentos with 2.4L GDI and 2.0L turbo GDI engines are covered by several actions: recall 17V224 (2012-2014, engine bearing wear from machining debris), recall 20V750 (2012-2013, engine-fire inspection and KSDS knock-sensor software), and Kia's engine class settlement for 2012-2019 Sorentos, which gives a lifetime engine warranty once the KSDS update is installed.
What to do: Confirm recall work and the KSDS update; ask for oil-change records and any engine replacement paperwork.
ABS Module (HECU) Fuse Fire-Risk Recall (23V652) (2011–2014)
Certain 2011-2014 Sorentos are in a 2023 recall (NHTSA 23V652) because the anti-lock brake hydraulic electronic control unit could short and start an engine-compartment fire while parked or driving. Owners were told to park outside until a dealer replaces the fuse.
What to do: Confirm the HECU fuse repair before buying an older Sorento.
Tow Hitch Harness Fire-Risk Recall (22V703) (2016–2023)
Certain 2016-2022 Sorentos, 2021-2022 Sorento Hybrids and 2022-2023 Sorento Plug-in Hybrids with a tow hitch harness were recalled (Kia SC249) because moisture and debris on the module's circuit board could short and start a fire. Owners were told to park outside until repaired.
What to do: Confirm the hitch-harness repair, especially on Sorentos used for towing.
2021-2022 Turbo Fuel Leak and Transmission Fail-Safe Recalls (2021–2022)
Two early fourth-generation recalls: 21V519 (2021 Sorento 2.5L turbo) for fuel leaking at the high-pressure pump-to-rail connection, and 22V760 (certain 2021-2022 Sorentos) because the transmission's limited-mobility fail-safe mode may not work after a transmission oil pump failure, causing loss of drive. Remedies include inspection, software and transmission replacement as needed.
What to do: Confirm both campaigns are complete on a 2021-2022 Sorento.
HVAC Blower Motor Wiring Fire-Risk Recall (25V649) (2021–2023)
Certain 2021-2023 Sorentos were recalled (Kia SC351) because the HVAC blower motor wiring harness may be inadequate and could cause a fire. Dealers replace the harness and blower motor resistor.
What to do: Confirm the SC351 repair before purchase.
2.5L Turbo 8-Speed Dual-Clutch Behavior (2021–2026)
The 281-hp turbo Sorento uses an 8-speed wet dual-clutch transmission. It is efficient and quick-shifting, but can feel less smooth than a regular automatic when creeping in traffic or parking.
What to do: Test drive in traffic; compare with the 2.5L non-turbo or hybrid if smoothness matters most.
Engine, Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid Resolution (2011–2026)
Sorentos span many powertrains: 2.4L, 2.4L GDI, 3.5L and 3.3L V6 (2011-2020), 2.0L turbo (2016-2018), and from 2021 a 2.5L, 2.5L turbo, 1.6L turbo hybrid and plug-in hybrid. Recalls, warranty coverage, towing and fuel economy differ sharply between them.
What to do: Confirm the exact powertrain, seating and drivetrain before comparing prices.

Recalls

Recall applicability varies by model year, production date, engine, equipment and VIN. Check the VIN for open recalls and completed remedies, and for 2012-2019 GDI four-cylinders confirm the knock-sensor software update.

Similar vehicles to consider

Hyundai Santa Fe
Toyota Highlander
Mazda CX-9
Mazda CX-90
Honda Pilot
Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport
Nissan Pathfinder
Ford Edge
Toyota RAV4 Prime
Kia Telluride

Questions this guide answers

What engine does this Sorento have?
Does this Sorento have a third row?
Is this Sorento covered by Kia's engine settlement?
What is the difference between the Sorento Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid?
Which Sorento years have a V6?
What changed in the 2021 redesign and 2024 refresh?
How much can a Sorento tow?
How does the Sorento compare to the Telluride?
What should I inspect on a used Sorento?
What recalls should I check by VIN?