Front-Wheel Drive (FWD), All-Wheel Drive (AWD) System
Chassis:
Suspension System (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brake System (Hydraulic & Parking)
Electrical:
Body Control Module (BCM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Engine Control Unit (ECU), Lighting System, Wiper & Washer System, Horn, Audio System, HVAC Control System
Body And Interior:
Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Seats, Interior Trim, Roof System
Safety Systems:
Airbag System, Seatbelt System, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
1000 kg (2200 lbs) unbraked, 2000 kg (4400 lbs) braked (Varies by market and engine)
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x114.3 mm
Wheel Size Standard:
17-inch alloy wheels
Tire Size Standard:
235/65R17
Cargo
Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:
Approx. 300 L (10.6 cu ft)
Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:
Approx. 1300 L (45.9 cu ft)
Cargo Volume Behind 1St Row:
Approx. 2300 L (81.2 cu ft)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Overall Rating:
4/5 Stars (for 2013 model)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Yes (for 2013 model, depending on specific test criteria)
Active Features
ABS:
Standard (Anti-lock Braking System)
Esc:
Standard (Electronic Stability Control)
Traction Control:
Standard (TCS)
Hac:
Optional/Standard on higher trims (Hill-start Assist Control)
Passive Features
Airbags:
Front, Side, Curtain Airbags (standard on most trims)
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters
Child Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Infotainment System:
Optional touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, USB, Bluetooth, and auxiliary input.
Audio System:
Available premium Infinity audio system with subwoofer.
Driver Assistance
Driver Assistance Features:
Rear parking sensors, backup camera (optional/standard on higher trims), smart key with push-button start.
Connectivity
Connectivity Options:
Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 24 months.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
90,000 miles (144,000 km) for iridium-tipped plugs (refer to manual for exact type).
Coolant Flush:
Every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) or 10 years (initial flush), then every 50,000 miles (80,000 km) or 5 years thereafter.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) under normal conditions, more frequently under severe conditions (refer to manual).
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 5W-20 (API SN or ILSAC GF-5 certified)
Engine Oil Capacity V6:
5.2 Liters (5.5 US Quarts)
Engine Oil Capacity 4Cyl:
4.5 Liters (4.8 US Quarts)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze/coolant (long-life pink)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Known Issues
Engine Performance:
Some reports of carbon buildup in 3.5L V6 engines, requiring periodic cleaning. Ignition coil failures can also occur.
Transmission Issues:
Occasional complaints about rough shifting or delayed engagement, particularly in earlier production years. Fluid leaks can also be a concern.
Electrical System:
Battery drain issues, sensor failures (e.g., wheel speed sensors, O2 sensors), and infotainment system glitches have been reported.
Suspension And Steering:
Worn suspension components (struts, bushings) over time, leading to noise or handling degradation. Some steering rack issues have been noted.
Brakes:
Premature wear of brake pads and rotors reported by some owners.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Brand Origin:
South Korea
Brand Growth:
Kia has evolved from a budget-oriented manufacturer to a globally recognized automotive brand known for design and quality.
Model Evolution
Model Introduction Generation:
The Sorento was first introduced in 2002 as a body-on-frame SUV. The XM generation (2009-2015) marked a significant shift to a unibody platform, transforming it into a more car-like crossover.
Xm Generation Key Changes:
Transition to unibody construction, new styling, improved fuel economy, expanded feature list.
Production
Production Start Year:
2009 (XM Generation)
Production End Year Xm:
2015
Manufacturing Locations:
South Korea (Hwaseong), Slovakia (Žilina), Vietnam, Malaysia, China, Russia
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Award Type Typical:
Often recognized for value and family-friendliness by automotive publications.
Ratings
Kbb Consumer Rating:
Generally positive consumer ratings for features and value, though some reliability concerns are noted by users.