Segment:
Mid-size Crossover SUV (3-row seating option)
Key Competitors:
Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Ford Edge, Chevrolet Traverse, Nissan Murano
Features Highlight:
Spacious interior, available third-row seating, powerful V6 engine option, available AWD, comfortable ride, robust styling.
Powertrain:
Engine (Lambda II V6, Theta II I4), Transmission (6-speed Automatic), Drivetrain (AWD, FWD)
Chassis:
Suspension (Front: MacPherson Strut, Rear: Multi-link), Steering (Electric Power Steering), Brakes (ABS, EBD, ESC, Parking Brake), Wheels and Tires
Electrical And Electronics:
Body Control Module (BCM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Instrument Cluster, Lighting (Headlamps, Taillamps, Interior), HVAC Controls, Audio System, Navigation System, Power Accessories (Windows, Locks, Mirrors), SRS Airbag System, Keyless Entry and Ignition, Immobilizer System
Body And Interior:
Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Liftgate, Bumpers, Seating, Trim, Restraints
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance tasks, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based diagnostics, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) explanations and resolution
Repair:
Component removal and installation, sub-assembly repairs, alignment procedures, system calibration
Diagnostics:
OBD-II diagnostics, sensor testing, actuator testing, electrical circuit analysis
Depth:
Comprehensive: From basic checks and fluid changes to complex electrical diagnostics, engine and transmission rebuilds, and bodywork repairs.
Length:
189.4 inches (4811 mm)
Width:
74.2 inches (1885 mm)
Height:
67.5 inches (1715 mm)
Wheelbase:
109.4 inches (2780 mm)
Passenger Volume:
Approx. 137.0 cu ft (3879 L)
Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:
Approx. 10.1 cu ft (286 L)
Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:
Approx. 37.0 cu ft (1048 L)
Cargo Volume Behind 1St Row:
Approx. 78.9 cu ft (2234 L)
Curb Weight I4 FWD:
Approx. 3,852 lbs (1747 kg)
Curb Weight V6 AWD:
Approx. 4,190 lbs (1900 kg)
Towing Capacity:
Up to 5,000 lbs (2268 kg) with V6 and tow package
NHTSA Overall Rating:
4-Star (2013 Model Year)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
No designation for 2013 model year (check specific IIHS reports for details)
Electronic Stability Control:
Standard (ESC)
Traction Control:
Standard (TCS)
Anti-Lock Brakes:
Standard (ABS)
Electronic Brake-Force Distribution:
Standard (EBD)
Airbags:
Front, Side-Curtain, Driver Knee Airbags
Seat Belts:
3-point active front seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters; 3-point seat belts for all rear seating positions
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system
Infotainment System:
Available UVO infotainment system with touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity, USB/Aux inputs.
Driver Assistance Features:
Available rearview camera, parking sensors (depending on trim level).
Connectivity Options:
Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming, USB/Auxiliary audio inputs.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions). Severe driving may require more frequent changes.
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on driving conditions.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or annually.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Refer to manual; typically around 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or as indicated by maintenance minder/driving conditions.
Engine Oil Specification I4:
SAE 0W-20, API SN or ILSAC GF-5 compliant
Engine Oil Specification V6:
SAE 5W-30, API SN or ILSAC GF-5 compliant
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based, long-life coolant (refer to manual for specific KIA coolant part number)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 compatible
Potential Issue 1:
Engine oil consumption concerns in some Theta II engines (may require monitoring and potential oil consumption test as per TSBs).
Potential Issue 2:
Transmission shift quality issues or hesitation, particularly in older models or those with high mileage (often addressed via software updates or fluid/filter service).
Potential Issue 3:
Fuel pump failure (less common, but reported on some units).
Kia Heritage:
Founded in 1944, KIA Motors is South Korea's oldest manufacturer of motor vehicles, known for its evolution into a global automotive brand with a focus on value, design, and quality.
Sorento Generation 1:
2003-2009 (Body-on-frame SUV)
Sorento Generation 2:
2010-2015 (Unibody Crossover SUV, including the 2013 model year)
Manufacturing Locations:
Hwaseong, South Korea; West Point, Georgia, USA (for North American market)