Vehicle Segment:
Mid-size Crossover SUV
Target Audience:
Families seeking a versatile, comfortable, and capable SUV with options for all-wheel drive.
Key Competitors:
Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Ford Explorer, Nissan Pathfinder, Chevrolet Traverse.
Value Proposition:
The Sorento offered a compelling blend of features, comfort, and Kia's industry-leading warranty, making it a strong contender in its segment.
Seating Capacity:
Available in 5-seat and 7-seat configurations.
Powertrain Options:
Offered with both 4-cylinder and V6 engine options.
Drivetrain Options:
Available in front-wheel drive (FWD) and optional all-wheel drive (AWD).
Design Philosophy:
Stylish and modern exterior design with a spacious and well-appointed interior.
Engine Components:
Engine block, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, valvetrain, gaskets, seals, intake system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system.
Transmission Components:
Automatic transmission (e.g., 6-speed AT), clutch assembly (if applicable), transmission case, internal components, linkages, mounts, fluid cooling.
Drivetrain Components:
Front axle, rear axle, driveshafts, CV joints, differential (if applicable), transfer case (if applicable), wheel hubs, bearings.
Suspension Components:
Front suspension (e.g., MacPherson strut), rear suspension (e.g., multi-link), springs, shock absorbers, control arms, ball joints, bushings, stabilizer bars.
Braking Components:
Front brakes (e.g., disc), rear brakes (e.g., disc), calipers, rotors, brake pads, brake lines, master cylinder, ABS components.
Steering Components:
Steering rack, power steering pump, steering column, tie rods, power steering hoses.
Electrical System Components:
Battery, alternator, starter motor, ignition system, lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior), wiring harnesses, fuses, relays, sensors.
Body Exterior Components:
Body panels (hood, doors, fenders, quarter panels), bumpers, grille, mirrors, glass, seals, latches, hinges, roof rails, spoilers.
Body Interior Components:
Dashboard, seats, upholstery, trim panels, center console, airbags, seatbelts, steering wheel, interior lighting, floor mats.
Climate Control Components:
HVAC unit, blower motor, evaporator, condenser, heater core, refrigerant lines, control panels.
Fuel System Components:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel injectors, fuel lines, fuel pressure regulator.
Part Identification:
Detailed illustrations of all components with corresponding part numbers for accurate ordering and verification.
Part Verification:
Enables DIY mechanics and service professionals to confirm the correct part for a specific repair or replacement.
Labor Information Reference:
Provides reference data for labor times associated with part replacement, useful for estimating repair costs and efficiency.
Depth:
Comprehensive part catalog covering all major assemblies and sub-assemblies. Focused on part identification and sourcing rather than procedural repair steps.
Engine Code 1:
Theta II G4KH (2.4L DOHC GDI I4)
Horsepower 1:
175 hp @ 6000 rpm (approx.)
Torque 1:
169 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approx.)
Fuel System 1:
Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI)
Engine Code 2:
Lambda II G6DJ (3.5L DOHC MPI V6)
Horsepower 2:
276 hp @ 6300 rpm (approx.)
Torque 2:
248 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (approx.)
Fuel System 2:
Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Engine Code 3:
Lambda II G6DH (3.8L DOHC MPI V6) - Note: 3.8L may be market dependent or phased out for 3.5L in some regions.
Horsepower 3:
273 hp @ 6000 rpm (approx.)
Torque 3:
260 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm (approx.)
Fuel System 3:
Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Length:
188.4 inches (4785 mm)
Width:
74.4 inches (1890 mm)
Height:
67.3 inches (1709 mm) (without roof rails)
Wheelbase:
108.3 inches (2750 mm)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 7.5 inches (190 mm)
Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:
Approx. 9.6 cubic feet (272 liters)
Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:
Approx. 30.7 cubic feet (870 liters)
Cargo Volume Behind 1St Row:
Approx. 75.1 cubic feet (2127 liters)
Curb Weight Range:
3800 - 4200 lbs (1724 - 1905 kg) depending on engine and drivetrain
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Approx. 5500 - 5800 lbs (2495 - 2630 kg)
Towing Capacity:
2000 lbs (907 kg) for 4-cylinder, 5000 lbs (2268 kg) for V6 models (properly equipped)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Awarded IIHS Top Safety Pick for 2012 and 2013 models (depending on specific options and testing protocols).
NHTSA Crash Test Rating:
Achieved 4-star overall safety rating from NHTSA for many configurations.
Electronic Stability Control Esc:
Standard on all models.
Traction Control System TCS:
Standard on all models.
Anti Lock Braking System ABS:
Standard on all models with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BAS).
All Wheel Drive AWD:
Optional advanced AWD system with torque vectoring for enhanced stability and traction.
Airbags:
Dual front airbags, front side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags (for all rows).
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts for all seating positions, pretensioners, and load limiters for front seats.
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system.
Infotainment System Options:
Available with AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio systems, SiriusXM satellite radio, Bluetooth connectivity, and optional navigation systems with touchscreens.
Audio System Features:
Premium Infinity audio system available on higher trim levels, often featuring 6-10 speakers.
Backup Camera:
Optional rear-view camera integrated into the infotainment display.
Parking Sensors:
Rear parking assist sensors available on some trims.
Bluetooth Hands Free:
Standard or optional Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming.
Usb Aux Ports:
Auxiliary audio input jack and USB port for media playback and device charging.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months for severe driving conditions; 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months for normal driving (using synthetic oil).
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km); replace as needed, typically around 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km); replace as needed, typically around 15,000-20,000 miles (24,000-32,000 km).
Spark Plug Replacement I4:
GDI engines: Typically around 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for iridium plugs.
Spark Plug Replacement V6:
MPI engines: Typically around 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for iridium plugs.
Coolant Flush:
Initial change at 60,000 miles (96,000 km), then every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months thereafter.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Refer to manual; often recommended around 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or more frequently under severe use.
Engine Oil Type:
API SN or ILSAC GF-5 certified, SAE 0W-20 viscosity grade (recommended). 5W-20 may be acceptable in some climates. Check owner's manual for specific recommendations.
Engine Oil Capacity:
2.4L: Approx. 4.8 US quarts (4.5 L); 3.5L V6: Approx. 5.5 US quarts (5.2 L). Always check dipstick.
Coolant Type:
Long-life coolant, typically an ethylene glycol-based antifreeze/coolant with OAT (Organic Acid Technology) or HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (check owner's manual).
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Refer to owner's manual; often a specific power steering fluid or Dexron III/VI ATF.
Engine Carbon Buildup Gdi:
Direct injection engines can be prone to carbon buildup on intake valves, potentially affecting performance and fuel economy. Regular fuel system cleaning may be beneficial.
Transmission Hesitation:
Some owners reported occasional hesitation or rough shifting, often addressed with software updates or transmission fluid service.
Susceptibility To Water Intrusion:
Some early models had reports of water potentially entering the engine bay or cabin in extreme weather conditions, though this was often model-year dependent and addressed via service bulletins.
Interior Rattles And Squeaks:
As with many SUVs, interior trim pieces can develop rattles over time. Identifying and addressing loose panels or clips is key.
Manufacturer History:
Kia Motors Corporation, a South Korean automobile manufacturer, known for its value-oriented vehicles and expanding global presence.
First Generation:
The first generation Sorento (2002-2009) was a body-on-frame SUV, transitioning to a unibody construction for the second generation.
Second Generation Introduction:
The second generation (XM) Sorento debuted for the 2010 model year and underwent a minor facelift for the 2014 model year, prior to the 2011-2013 period.
Platform Sharing:
Shares platform components with other Hyundai/Kia models of its era, contributing to cost efficiencies and shared technology.
Assembly Locations:
Primarily assembled at Kia's Hwaseong Plant in South Korea. Some assembly may have occurred in other global locations depending on market.