KIA SORENTO Buying Guide & Reliability (2003-2020)

The KIA Sorento is a versatile SUV that has been a popular choice among UK drivers since its introduction in 2003. With a total of 674 registered vehicles, the Sorento has established itself as a reliable option for families and individuals alike, offering a blend of comfort, space, and...

Last updated September 08, 2025 1998 words Based on real UK vehicle data

KIA SORENTO Overview

The KIA Sorento is a versatile SUV that has been a popular choice among UK drivers since its introduction in 2003. With a total of 674 registered vehicles, the Sorento has established itself as a reliable option for families and individuals alike, offering a blend of comfort, space, and performance.

Spanning model years from 2003 to 2020, the Sorento has undergone several updates and improvements, making it a competitive player in the SUV market. The vehicle has a respectable MOT pass rate of 76.8%, indicating a generally positive reliability record. However, common failures have been noted in categories such as brakes (138 failures), suspension (101 failures), and lighting (96 failures), which potential buyers should consider.

In terms of fuel type, the KIA Sorento predominantly runs on diesel, with 664 diesel vehicles compared to just 10 petrol variants. This preference for diesel reflects the model's focus on efficiency and performance, particularly for long-distance driving.

Colour options for the Sorento are varied, with black (197), silver (191), and grey (101) being the most popular choices among owners. The vehicle's appeal is further supported by its distribution across various model years, with the highest number of registrations in 2019 (50) and 2016 (54).

Regarding tax status, 470 Sorentos are currently taxed, while 138 are untaxed and 66 are declared SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification). This data highlights the active use of the vehicle on UK roads.

Overall, the KIA Sorento remains a strong contender in the SUV segment, combining practicality with a solid performance record. Please note that the data presented is based on available statistics and may not reflect the most current market conditions.

Reliability and MOT Performance

The KIA Sorento, produced between 2003 and 2020, has a total of 674 registered vehicles in the UK. With an overall MOT pass rate of 76.8%, this model demonstrates a reasonable level of reliability, although it is essential to consider the common areas where failures occur.

Among the 7,976 MOT tests conducted on the KIA Sorento, the most frequent reasons for failure include issues classified under 'Other' (192 instances), followed by brakes (138), suspension (101), lighting (96), and tyres (70). These statistics highlight the importance of regular maintenance, particularly in these critical areas.

In terms of fuel type, the vast majority of Sorentos on the road are diesel, with 664 vehicles, while only 10 are petrol. This distribution may influence the vehicle's performance and running costs, as diesel engines typically offer better fuel efficiency for long-distance driving.

Colour preferences among Sorento owners show a strong inclination towards black (197 vehicles) and silver (191 vehicles), with grey (101), blue (90), and white (62) also being popular choices. This variety allows potential buyers to select a model that suits their aesthetic preferences.

When examining the age distribution of the KIA Sorento, the most common model years on the road are from 2015 to 2019, with 63 vehicles registered in 2015 and 50 in 2019. This suggests that newer models may be more prevalent, potentially offering improved features and reliability.

It is important to note that the data presented here is based on available statistics and may not reflect the current state of all KIA Sorentos on the road. Regular checks and maintenance are recommended to ensure optimal performance and safety.

What to Check When Buying Used

When considering a used KIA Sorento, there are several key factors to evaluate to ensure you make a sound investment. With a total of 674 registered vehicles in the UK, it’s essential to understand the model's history and condition.

First, check the vehicle's MOT history. The KIA Sorento has a pass rate of 76.8%, which indicates that while many vehicles pass their tests, a significant number do not. Pay particular attention to common failure categories, including brakes (138 failures), suspension (101 failures), and lighting (96 failures). These areas are crucial for safety and performance.

Next, consider the vehicle's mileage. The average annual mileage for a KIA Sorento is approximately 7,000 miles. A vehicle with significantly higher mileage may have more wear and tear, while one with lower mileage could be a better option.

Fuel type is another important aspect. The majority of KIA Sorentos on the market are diesel (664 vehicles), with only 10 petrol options available. Depending on your driving habits and preferences, this could influence your choice.

Colour preference can also play a role in resale value. The most common colours for the Sorento are black (197), silver (191), and grey (101). Choosing a popular colour may enhance the vehicle's appeal when it comes time to sell.

Lastly, verify the tax status of the vehicle. Out of the registered Sorentos, 470 are taxed, while 138 are untaxed and 66 are SORN. An untaxed vehicle may require additional costs to bring it back on the road.

Always ensure to conduct a thorough inspection and obtain a full service history where possible. This data is based on current registrations and may not reflect future trends or changes.

Running Costs and Specifications

Running Costs and Specifications

The KIA Sorento, produced between 2003 and 2020, has a total of 674 registered vehicles in the UK. This model is predominantly diesel, with 664 units, while only 10 petrol variants exist. The average annual mileage for these vehicles is approximately 7,000 miles, which can help in estimating running costs.

In terms of taxation, 470 of the registered Sorentos are currently taxed, while 138 are untaxed and 66 are declared SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification). This distribution indicates a significant number of vehicles actively on the road, contributing to their running costs.

The KIA Sorento has a MOT pass rate of 76.8%, which is relatively good for a vehicle of its age. However, common failures have been noted, with the most frequent issues arising in the categories of 'Other' (192 failures), brakes (138), suspension (101), lighting (96), and tyres (70). These statistics are crucial for potential buyers to consider when evaluating the long-term ownership costs.

Colour preferences for the KIA Sorento show a strong inclination towards black (197), silver (191), and grey (101), with blue (90) and white (62) also being popular choices. This variety allows buyers to select a model that suits their aesthetic preferences.

In terms of age distribution, the most common years for registered Sorentos are 2019 (50 units), 2018 (46 units), and 2016 (54 units). This data can assist buyers in identifying models that may offer better value or features.

Overall, the KIA Sorento presents a balanced option for those seeking a reliable SUV, with manageable running costs and a solid track record in terms of MOT performance. Please note that the data provided is based on current registrations and may be subject to change.

Alternative Models to Consider

If you're considering the KIA Sorento, it's worth exploring some alternative models that may suit your needs. The Sorento, produced from 2003 to 2020, has a total of 674 registered vehicles in the UK, with a notable MOT pass rate of 76.8%. However, like any vehicle, it has its common issues, including failures related to brakes (138 instances), suspension (101), and lighting (96).

For those looking for similar SUVs, the Hyundai Santa Fe is a strong contender. Known for its reliability and spacious interior, the Santa Fe offers a comfortable ride and a range of engine options. Additionally, the Nissan X-Trail is another alternative, providing excellent fuel efficiency and a versatile cabin layout, making it ideal for families.

Another model to consider is the Ford Kuga. This compact SUV is praised for its driving dynamics and advanced technology features. With a variety of petrol and diesel engines, it caters to different preferences and budgets.

In terms of fuel type, the KIA Sorento predominantly features diesel engines, with 664 out of 674 registered vehicles running on diesel. If you're looking for petrol alternatives, the Mazda CX-5 offers a sporty drive and a well-appointed interior, making it a popular choice among SUV enthusiasts.

When considering alternatives, it's essential to evaluate the vehicle's history and performance. The KIA Sorento has a relatively low average annual mileage of 7,000 miles, which may indicate less wear and tear compared to other models. However, always check the specific vehicle's MOT history and common failure points.

Ultimately, while the KIA Sorento is a solid choice, exploring these alternatives can help you find the perfect SUV for your lifestyle.

Data accuracy is based on the latest available statistics and may vary. Always verify details with official sources.

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What years was the KIA Sorento produced?

The KIA Sorento was produced from 2003 to 2020, covering a range of model years including 2003, 2004, 2005, and so on, up to 2020.

How many KIA Sorentos are currently registered in the UK?

As of now, there are 674 KIA Sorento vehicles registered in the UK.

What is the MOT pass rate for the KIA Sorento?

The MOT pass rate for the KIA Sorento stands at 76.8%, indicating a relatively good performance in terms of roadworthiness.

What are the common reasons for MOT failures?

Common failures for the KIA Sorento include issues related to brakes (138 failures), suspension (101 failures), and lighting (96 failures). Other categories also contribute to the failure rate, with a total of 192 failures classified as 'Other'.

What fuel types are available for the KIA Sorento?

The majority of KIA Sorentos are diesel, with 664 registered diesel vehicles compared to just 10 petrol variants.

What colours are most KIA Sorentos available in?

The most common colours for the KIA Sorento include black (197 vehicles), silver (191 vehicles), and grey (101 vehicles), with blue and white also being popular choices.

How many KIA Sorentos are taxed?

Out of the total registered KIA Sorentos, 470 are currently taxed, while 138 are untaxed and 66 are declared SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification).

Disclaimer: The data presented here is based on current registrations and MOT statistics and may be subject to change. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, please consult official sources.

Data Source: This guide is based on analysis of extensive UK vehicle database in our database, including MOT test results and DVLA records.

Disclaimer: This information is provided for guidance only and is based on historical data in our database. Always verify current vehicle details with official sources and get a professional inspection before purchase.

Related Guides

KIA SPORTAGE 2 ISG CRDI Overview The KIA SPORTAGE 2 ISG CRDI is a compact SUV that was produced b...

KIA RIO GT-LINE S MHEV Overview The KIA RIO GT-LINE S MHEV is a hybrid electric vehicle that has ...

The KIA Niro is a versatile and eco-friendly vehicle that has gained popularity since its introdu...

The KIA Venga is a compact MPV that was produced between 2010 and 2019, with a total of 755 regis...

The KIA Picanto is a compact city car that has been a popular choice among UK drivers since its i...