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2007 Kia Sorento Full Review
Date Published: 8/16/08
Also in the 2007 Kia Sorento Review:
2007 Kia Sorento Review
Kia's midsize SUV gets more power for 2007, plus standard ABS and traction/antiskid control. Sorento has a truck-type platform, seating for five, and rear-wheel drive or 4-wheel drive. Base, LX, and EX models are offered. They retain a V6 engine, but replace a 192-hp 3.5-liter with a 262-hp 3.8. A 5-speed automatic with manual shift gate is the sole transmission. Kia offers two 4WD setups, both with low-range gearing. The standard system cannot be left engaged on dry pavement. Kia's Torque-On-Demand 4WD system can be left engaged on dry pavement. It's exclusive to EX and is included in the available Luxury Package. Previously optional, ABS is now standard, as is new-for-'07 traction/antiskid control. Curtain side airbags are standard. Exclusive EX options include heated front seats and dual-zone automatic climate control. All '07 Sorentos also get minor appearance changes inside and out.
Competition
Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Larger than Compact SUVs, Midsize SUVs offer a mix of car- and truck-type construction, V6 and V8 power, and up to eight-passenger seating. This class also includes crossover vehicles.
Our Best Buy choice is the Honda Pilot. Our Recommended picks are the Ford Explorer, Ford Freestyle, Mazda CX-7, Nissan Murano, and Toyota Highlander.
New or significantly redesigned models include the Dodge Nitro, Ford Edge, GMC Acadia, Hyundai Santa Fe, Mazda CX-7, Mazda CX-9, Saturn Outlook, Suzuki XL-7, and Toyota FJ Cruiser.
Our Best Buy choice is the Honda Pilot. Our Recommended picks are the Ford Explorer, Ford Freestyle, Mazda CX-7, Nissan Murano, and Toyota Highlander.
New or significantly redesigned models include the Dodge Nitro, Ford Edge, GMC Acadia, Hyundai Santa Fe, Mazda CX-7, Mazda CX-9, Saturn Outlook, Suzuki XL-7, and Toyota FJ Cruiser.
News
Word is that Sorento will be redesigned for 2009, switching from body-on-frame construction to the unibody platform of parent Hyundai's 2007 Santa Fe. The new Kia SUV is said to differ in appearance and driving feel, but how much remains to be seen.
Meantime, Kia is leading development on a midsize pickup and related SUV to be shared with Hyundai. The trucks would use the traditional body-on-frame format and be built in the U.S., likely at the new Kia plant now rising in western Georgia. Assuming all goes according to schedule, the pickup reportedly starts production in early 2010, the SUV some 9-10 months later.
Meantime, Kia is leading development on a midsize pickup and related SUV to be shared with Hyundai. The trucks would use the traditional body-on-frame format and be built in the U.S., likely at the new Kia plant now rising in western Georgia. Assuming all goes according to schedule, the pickup reportedly starts production in early 2010, the SUV some 9-10 months later.
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2007 Kia Sorento Road Test
Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings
Acceleration
Strong from a stop, with adequate passing power. Transmission generally smooth, though full-throttle downshifts can be abrupt. We recommend the available Torque-On-Demand 4WD for its all-surface convenience. Towing capacity is 5000 lb.
| 4WD EX w/Luxury Pkg. | Class Average |
| 6 | 5.2 |
Strong from a stop, with adequate passing power. Transmission generally smooth, though full-throttle downshifts can be abrupt. We recommend the available Torque-On-Demand 4WD for its all-surface convenience. Towing capacity is 5000 lb.
Fuel Economy
Test AWD Sorento averaged 18.1 mpg, 21.0 with more highway use. Sorento uses regular-grade fuel.
| 4WD EX w/Luxury Pkg. | Class Average |
| 4 | 4 |
Test AWD Sorento averaged 18.1 mpg, 21.0 with more highway use. Sorento uses regular-grade fuel.
Ride Quality
Generally comfortable and composed, but stiff and jiggly over modest road imperfections; larger bumps and sharp-edge ruts can jolt. Large humps, dips trigger hobby-horse pitching.
| 4WD EX w/Luxury Pkg. | Class Average |
| 4 | 5.5 |
Generally comfortable and composed, but stiff and jiggly over modest road imperfections; larger bumps and sharp-edge ruts can jolt. Large humps, dips trigger hobby-horse pitching.
Steering/Handling/Braking
Handling on par with most other midsize truck-type SUVs. Corners with noticeable body lean, modest tire grip. Good stopping control.
| 4WD EX w/Luxury Pkg. | Class Average |
| 4 | 4.5 |
Handling on par with most other midsize truck-type SUVs. Corners with noticeable body lean, modest tire grip. Good stopping control.
Quietness
Engine noisier than most rivals'. Wind noise and coarse-surface tire thrum intrude, but aren't irksome.
| 4WD EX w/Luxury Pkg. | Class Average |
| 5 | 5.6 |
Engine noisier than most rivals'. Wind noise and coarse-surface tire thrum intrude, but aren't irksome.
Controls
Standard climate system has small, hard-to-decipher dials; optional automatic climate control much easier to use. Gauges, other controls conveniently located, clearly marked, brightly illuminated. Interior materials and assembly a notch above similarly priced domestic-brand rivals.
| 4WD EX w/Luxury Pkg. | Class Average |
| 6 | 6.6 |
Standard climate system has small, hard-to-decipher dials; optional automatic climate control much easier to use. Gauges, other controls conveniently located, clearly marked, brightly illuminated. Interior materials and assembly a notch above similarly priced domestic-brand rivals.
Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)
Comfortable, supportive seats. Ample head and leg room even for above-average-size adults. Step-in height reasonable for a truck-type SUV.
| 4WD EX w/Luxury Pkg. | Class Average |
| 7 | 7 |
Comfortable, supportive seats. Ample head and leg room even for above-average-size adults. Step-in height reasonable for a truck-type SUV.
Room/Comfort (rear)
Wide doors open to roomy, supportive seating, though two adults are the comfortable long-distance limit. Low seat bottoms, reclined seatbacks mean exiting requires some extra effort.
| 4WD EX w/Luxury Pkg. | Class Average |
| 6 | 6.1 |
Wide doors open to roomy, supportive seating, though two adults are the comfortable long-distance limit. Low seat bottoms, reclined seatbacks mean exiting requires some extra effort.
Cargo Room
Generous. After removing headrests and flipping cushion, rear seatbacks fold easily to provide a flat load floor. Separate-opening hatch window a convenience. Interior cubbies, storage compartments abound.
| 4WD EX w/Luxury Pkg. | Class Average |
| 7 | 8 |
Generous. After removing headrests and flipping cushion, rear seatbacks fold easily to provide a flat load floor. Separate-opening hatch window a convenience. Interior cubbies, storage compartments abound.
Value within Class
Sorento is priced like a compact SUV yet acts like a midsize, and impresses for interior decor and features per dollar. Resale values don't match those of top Japanese rivals, but those rivals don't match Kia's generous warranty.
| 4WD EX w/Luxury Pkg. | Class Average |
| 6 | 5.9 |
Sorento is priced like a compact SUV yet acts like a midsize, and impresses for interior decor and features per dollar. Resale values don't match those of top Japanese rivals, but those rivals don't match Kia's generous warranty.
Total Score
| 4WD EX w/Luxury Pkg. | Class Average |
| 55 | 58.4 |
Scores for all Midsize Sport-utility Vehicles
| Low Score | 48 | |
| Average Score | 58 | |
| High Score | 69 |
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2007 Kia Sorento Prices & Equipment
Model Prices
Prices Updated: 11/29/2006
| Trim Name | Retail Price | Dealer Invoice | Destination Charge |
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| 2WD Base 4-door wagon | $19,995 | $19,050 | $670 |
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| 2WD LX 4-door wagon | $22,595 | $21,420 | $670 |
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| 4WD LX 4-door wagon | $24,595 | $23,270 | $670 |
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| 2WD EX 4-door wagon, automatic | $24,295 | $22,620 | $670 |
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| 4WD EX 4-door wagon, automatic | $26,195 | $24,370 | $670 |
Pricing Key: Retail prices listed with each report are set by the vehicle's
manufacturer. These figures appear on each car's federally mandated window sticker.
Most price lists also include dealer-invoice prices. Dealer-invoice prices are
what the dealer pays the manufacturer for the car and its factory-installed options.
The destination charge is not included in the suggested-retail or dealer-invoice price
and must be added to the cost of the vehicle. Car companies change prices frequently
throughout the year. If the prices published do not match those on the vehicle's
window sticker, the manufacturer has probably altered the price recently.
NA = price note available, NC = no charge.
Rebates and Incentives
There are no rebates or incentives at this time.
Consumer Guide®'s Rebates and Incentives represent a summary of national
manufacturer programs available. Regional restrictions may apply, and offerings
may vary by model. For a complete list of Rebate & Incentive programs click here.
Standard Equipment
Base
Powertrain
3.8-liter V6 engine, 5-speed automatic transmission w/manual-shift capability, traction control.
Safety
Dual front airbags, curtain side airbags, driver knee airbag, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, antiskid system, tire-pressure monitor, front-seat active head restraints.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Power steering, tilt steering wheel, cloth upholstery, front bucket seats w/driver-seat height and lumbar adjustment, center console, cupholders, split folding rear seat, heated power mirrors, power windows, power door locks, AM/FM/CD/MP3 player, digital clock, tachometer, variable-intermittent wipers w/deicer, illuminated visor mirrors, map lights, rear defogger, intermittent rear wiper/washer, automatic-off headlights.
Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires
Full-size spare tire, 245/70R16 tires, alloy wheels.
LX adds to Base:
Comfort and Convenience Features
Air conditioning, cruise control, remote keyless entry, cargo cover.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Roof rack.
Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires
4WD adds: 4-wheel drive, 2-speed transfer case.
EX adds to LX:
Comfort and Convenience Features
Leather-wrapped steering wheel w/radio controls, 8-way power driver seat, power sunroof, automatic day/night rearview mirror, compass, trip computer, universal garage door opener, floormats.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Rear privacy glass, fog lights.
Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires
4WD adds: 4-wheel drive, 2-speed transfer case.
Optional Equipment
Major Packages |
Retail Price |
Invoice Price |
|
Sport Pkg.
|
||
|
LX
|
$1,200
|
$1,070
|
|
Leather-wrapped steering wheel, unique interior trim, fog lights, rear spoiler, side steps, 245/65R17 tires.
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Luxury Pkg.
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||
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2WD EX
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$2,500
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$2,235
|
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4WD EX
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$3,000
|
$2,680
|
|
Leather upholstery, heated front seats, dual-zone automatic climate controls, power sunroof, AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD changer, Torque-On-Demand AWD (4WD), automatic headlights, chrome exterior trim.
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Comfort and Convenience Features |
||
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Air conditioning
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Base
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$1,000
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$895
|
|
Power sunroof
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EX
|
$800
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$715
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Leather upholstery
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LX
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$800
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$715
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Requires Sport Pkg.
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Remote engine start
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Base, EX, LX
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$360
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$275
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DVD entertainment system
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Base, EX, LX
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$995
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$850
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Cargo tray
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Base, EX, LX
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$90
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$70
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Floormats
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LX
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$85
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$65
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Rubber floormats
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Base, EX, LX
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$75
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$57
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Appearance and Miscellaneous |
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Side steps
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Base, EX, LX
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$445
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$345
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Rear spoiler
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EX
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$200
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$154
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Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires |
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Tow hitch
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Base, EX, LX
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$340
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$262
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245/65R17 tires
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LX
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$300
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$270
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Get a FREE Price Quote:
2007 Kia Sorento Specs & Safety
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | Kia Sorento 4-door wagon |
| Wheelbase, in. | 106.7 |
| Overall Length, in. | 180.7 |
| Overall Width, in. | 73.3 |
| Overall Height, in. | 68.1 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 4387 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 66.4 |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 21.1 |
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 39.7 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 42.6 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 39.5 |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 36.1 |
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Engines
| dohc V6 | |
| Size, liters/cu. in. | 3.8 /231 |
| Horsepower @ rpm. | 262 @ 6000 |
| Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm. | 260 @ 4500 |
| Availability | Standard |
|
EPA City / highway mpg
|
|
| 5-speed automatic | 17/22 |
Engine Key: l/cu in. = liters/cubic inches; ohv = overhead valve; ohc = overhead camshaft;
dohc = dual overhead camshaft; I = inline cylinders; H = horizonally opposed cylinders;
V = cylinders in a V configuration; W = cylinders in a W configuration; rpm = revolutions
per minute; CVT = continuously variable (automatic) transmission; NA = not available; "--"
= measurement does not exist.
Safety Features
 Antilock Brakes Traction Control Antiskid System |
Front Side Airbags Curtain Side Airbags Rear Side Airbags |
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | Kia Sorento 4-door wagon |
| Side Impact, Driver | 5 |
| Side Impact, Rear Passenger | 5 |
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's
worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to
rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury:
5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Side-impact
crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%;
1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover
when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%;
2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Manufacturer's Warranty
| Class | Years/Miles | Comments |
| Powertrain | 10/100,000 | -- |
| Bumper-to-bumper | 5/60,000 | -- |
| Corrosion | 5/100,000 | -- |
| Free roadside assistance | 5/60,000 | -- |
| Free scheduled maintenance | None/-- | -- |
Manufacturers may periodically offer additional coverage as a purchase incentive.
There offers are not reflected on this chart. The federal government requires two
other warranties. The Exhaust Emission Warranty covers corrosion-related parts for
2 years/24,000 miles, plus 8 years/80,000 miles on the catalytic converter and any
on-board diagnostic device. The Passenger Restraint Warranty covers seat belts
and airbags for 5 years/50,000 miles.
Built in:
South Korea
Drivewheels:
4-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive
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Also in the 2007 Kia Sorento Review:
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