Kia Sorento History

Mid-size SUV · 2003–present

Sample hero image — replace with real model photography.

History

The Sorento debuted in the US for the 2003 model year as a truck-based, body-on-frame mid-size SUV — a rugged alternative to the Honda Pilot and Toyota 4Runner at a value price point.

For 2011, Kia switched the Sorento to a car-based unibody platform and added an optional third-row seat, transforming it into a more car-like crossover. The third generation (2016) and fourth generation (2021) continued refining the formula, with the 2021 model adding the nameplate's first hybrid and plug-in-hybrid powertrains.

Generations

First generation (BL) · BL (2003–2009)

Kia's first US Sorento — a truck-based, body-on-frame mid-size SUV (US 2003–2009; no 2010 model).
Second generation (XM) · XM (2011–2015)

Moved to a unibody platform; gained an optional third row (US 2011–2015).
- 2013
  Photo: “File:13 Kia Sorento LX.jpg” by HJUdall / Wikimedia Commons — CC0 1.0
Third generation (UM) · UM (2016–2020)

Photo: “File:15 Kia Sorento SX Limited.jpg” by HJUdall / Wikimedia Commons — CC0 1.0

Further refined crossover with improved interior quality (US 2016–2020).
- 2019
  Photo: “File:19 Kia Sorento SX V6.jpg” by HJUdall / Wikimedia Commons — CC0 1.0
Fourth generation (MQ4) · MQ4 (2021–present)

First hybrid and plug-in hybrid Sorento; wider, tech-heavy redesign (US from 2021).
- 2021
  Photo: “File:2021 Kia Sorento SX AWD, front 1.14.20.jpg” by Kevauto / Wikimedia Commons , licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0