Models · Kia
Kia Sorento (2015–2020) buying guide
The third-generation Sorento, on sale from March 2015 to 2020 with seven seats, four-wheel drive and a single 2.2 CRDi diesel, and facelifted for 2018. It has a good reliability record, and the checks centre on wear from towing and a few recall items.
The versions
- 2.2 CRDi diesel: 197bhp, the only engine
- Six-speed manual, or automatic (six-speed, then eight-speed from the facelift); the automatic is rated to tow 2,000kg against 2,500kg for the manual
- Four-wheel drive with a locking differential
- Self-levelling rear suspension on every version except the entry KX-1
- No cambelt: the engine is chain-driven
What to check on a 2015 to 2020 Sorento
3 model-specific things to look at when you view one. They're a starting point, not the full inspection.
Clutch slip 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 after the drive. Ask whether the car has towed.
Why it matters: Many manual Sorentos have been used for heavy towing, and the clutch works hard, so slip or a burning smell are the signs to note.
Automatic gearbox behaviour
What to look for: On an automatic, drive through the gears gently and then briskly, and note any long delays, slurred or harsh changes, or hesitation pulling away.
Why it matters: The automatic is slow to shift and can slur between gears even when healthy, and gearboxes are one of the main things owners have complained about. A test drive that includes some brisk acceleration shows whether this car's gearbox is behaving normally.
Signs of towing and off-road use
What to look for: Look underneath and along the sills for dents and scrapes. On a KX-2 or above, check the car sits level at the rear when unladen and after loading the boot. Look for a towbar and ask what has been towed.
Why it matters: Most Sorentos stay on the road, but some have seen off-road use, and many have towed. Self-levelling rear suspension is fitted from KX-2 and is the one to have for towing. Try all the electrics too, especially on well-equipped top-spec cars.
Also in the full guide
- Door handles and recall work
- The cold start, test drive and paperwork checks for the exact version you're viewing
The full guide to the 2015 to 2020 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.