Models · Kia
Kia Sorento (2010–2015) buying guide
The second-generation Sorento, sold from 2010 to 2015 with seven seats, almost always with the 2.2 CRDi diesel, and four-wheel drive only after the 2012 facelift. The engines and electrics have proved very reliable, and the checks centre on wear from towing and a few recalls.
The versions
- 2.2 CRDi diesel: 194bhp, fitted to virtually all cars, manual or automatic
- 2.0 CRDi diesel: 147bhp, front-wheel drive only, from spring 2011 until the 2012 facelift
- 2.4 petrol on early cars only
- Front or four-wheel drive (KX trims), four-wheel drive only from August 2012
- All engines are chain-driven, with no cambelt
What to check on a 2010 to 2015 Sorento
3 model-specific things to look at when you view one. They're a starting point, not the full inspection.
Clutch and dual-mass flywheel on a manual
What to look for: On a manual, pull away on a slope and accelerate firmly in a high gear: the revs should not rise without the car picking up speed. Sniff for a burning clutch smell and feel for judder or vibration. Ask whether the car has towed.
Why it matters: Slip, smell or judder point to a worn clutch or dual-mass flywheel, and the flywheel is a big job to replace. Many Sorentos have towed, which is why an automatic is often recommended for towing.
Corrosion on the roof's leading edge
What to look for: Look closely along the front edge of the roof above the windscreen for bubbling paint or rust, especially if the windscreen has been replaced. Check the tyres for uneven wear.
Why it matters: The leading edge of the roof can corrode, particularly where a replacement windscreen has been fitted. Uneven tyre wear is common on these cars, so it's worth checking all four.
The spare wheel and the underside
What to look for: Check the spare wheel is still in its cradle under the car and whether a lock is fitted. Look underneath at the exhaust, suspension and under-bumper panels for damage, and in the arches for caked mud.
Why it matters: The spare sits under the car and is easily stolen, so many owners fit a lock. Damage to the underside, exhaust and bumpers points to green laning or heavy use, which matters on a car that may also have towed.
Also in the full guide
- Brake light and fuel hose recalls
- The cold start, test drive and paperwork checks for the exact version you're viewing
The full guide to the 2010 to 2015 Sorento
The CrankSight guide walks you round the car on your phone at the viewing, with every check for the exact version you're looking at: what to look for, where to find it, and what anything you find is likely to cost. As you go it builds an assessment of that car, and if you view more than one, it lines them up side by side.
£29 for the model, used on as many cars as you like, delivered within 72 hours or your money back.
Other generations
General points for the model, last checked October 2026. Every car is different, so treat this as a guide to what to look at, not a verdict on any car. CrankSight is independent and has no connection with Kia.