Up to 5,000 lbs (2270 kg) when properly equipped (3.5L AWD recommended)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Overall Rating:
4-Star (2012 Model Year, varies by configuration)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Yes (for models with specific safety features and configurations)
Active Features
Electronic Stability Control:
Standard
Traction Control:
Standard
Antilock Braking System ABS:
Standard
Electronic Brakeforce Distribution Ebd:
Standard
Brake Assist Bas:
Standard
Passive Features
Airbag System:
Dual front airbags, front side airbags, side curtain airbags (all rows).
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters.
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Infotainment System:
Available touchscreen infotainment system with AM/FM/CD/MP3, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, and optional navigation.
Audio System:
Standard 6-speaker audio system; optional Infinity premium audio system.
Driver Assistance
Backup Camera:
Available as an option or part of a package, often integrated with the infotainment display.
Parking Sensors:
Available rear parking assist sensors.
Connectivity
Bluetooth Hands-Free:
Available Bluetooth wireless technology for hands-free calling and audio streaming.
Usb Aux Ports:
Standard USB and auxiliary input jacks for media devices.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions).
Air Filter Replacement Interval:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on conditions.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement Interval:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement Interval 2 4L:
Every 105,000 miles (169,000 km) for iridium-tipped plugs.
Brake Fluid Flush Interval:
Every 24 months or 30,000 miles (48,000 km), whichever comes first.
Coolant Flush Interval:
First flush at 60,000 miles (96,000 km), then every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months thereafter.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 0W-20 API SN/ILSAC GF-5 (for 2.4L GDI), SAE 5W-20 API SN/ILSAC GF-5 (for 3.5L MPI)
Engine Oil Capacity 2 4L:
4.8 US quarts (4.6 liters) with filter change.
Engine Oil Capacity 3 5L:
6.9 US quarts (6.5 liters) with filter change.
Coolant Specification:
HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) or OAT (Organic Acid Technology) Extended Life Antifreeze/Coolant, typically red or orange in color.
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 8.0 US quarts (7.6 liters) for 2.4L, 9.5 US quarts (9.0 liters) for 3.5L.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Known Issues
Engine Knock Sensor Issues:
Some reports of false knock sensor codes, potentially leading to reduced performance or check engine lights.
Thermostat Failures:
Occasional reports of thermostat housing leaks or failures affecting engine temperature regulation.
Cv Joint Wear:
Front CV joints can experience wear, leading to clicking noises during turns, especially on AWD models.
Paint Chipping:
Some owners have reported susceptibility to paint chipping on the front fascia and hood.
Tpms Sensor Issues:
Infrequent issues with TPMS sensor battery life or connectivity.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Kia History:
Kia Motors Corporation, founded in 1944, is South Korea's oldest manufacturer of motor vehicles.
Model Evolution
Sorento Generation Xm:
The 2012 Sorento marked the second generation (XM) of the model, introducing a significant redesign with a unibody construction and new powertrain options.
Key Changes 2012:
Transition to a unibody platform, introduction of the more powerful 3.5L Lambda II V6 engine, improved fuel efficiency, and a revised interior and exterior styling.
Production
Production Start Year:
2002
Production Location:
Hwaseong, South Korea; West Point, Georgia, USA (for North American market)
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
IIHS Award 2012:
The 2012 Sorento earned an IIHS Top Safety Pick award, highlighting its good performance in crash tests.
Ratings
Consumer Reports Rating:
Varies by year and specific model configuration; generally rated as average to good for reliability and owner satisfaction.