2020 Kia Sorento Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- Prioritize confirming the trailer hitch harness recall (22V703000) is completed. This addresses a potential fire risk.
- The V6 engine offers adequate power for daily driving and highway cruising.
- With a combined EPA rating of 20 MPG, expect moderate fuel costs.
- The Sorento boasts a 5-star overall NHTSA safety rating, including 5 stars for frontal and side crash tests.
2020 Kia Sorento
Critical Failure Risk
A recall addresses a potential fire risk originating from the trailer hitch harness module. Debris and moisture can cause an electrical short within the module's printed circuit board.
Early detection can help you avoid a $300-$700 repair.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
No primary complaint themes found.
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Families seeking a safe and practical SUV with three rows of seating.
+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Buyers unwilling to meticulously check for completed recalls, especially the trailer hitch harness.
+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2020 Kia Sorento Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2020 Kia Sorento.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Regular
- Seating Capacity
- 7
- Transmission
- Automatic
- Drivetrain
- FWD/Front-Wheel Drive
- EPA Combined MPG
- 20
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Most Common Issues
1. Trailer Hitch Harness Module Fire Risk
Most reportedUsage data observed
2. Oil Leaks
Usage data observed
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake Inspection - Fluid Level Checks (Coolant, Brake, Power Steering, Washer)
Est. shop cost: $100 - $150
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FAQ
Is the 2020 Kia Sorento reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2020 Kia Sorento is 9.1/10. Reliability score is 9.1/10. NHTSA recalls: 7. Owner complaints: 0.
How practical is the 2020 Kia Sorento for daily use?
Practicality score is 4.3/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 20 MPG. Seating capacity is 7.
What is the overall score for the 2020 Kia Sorento?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2020 Kia Sorento is 7.2/10. Overall score is 7.2/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.8/10. Practicality 4.3/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2020 Kia Sorento?
Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake Inspection - Fluid Level Checks (Coolant, Brake, Power Steering, Washer) at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $600. Repair prediction highlight: Trailer Hitch Harness Module (estimated cost Min: $0 (Recall)).
What is the MSRP range for the 2020 Kia Sorento?
Base MSRP is $27,990.
What engine is in the 2020 Kia Sorento?
Engine specs list 6 • 3.3.
What transmission does the 2020 Kia Sorento use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2020 Kia Sorento, transmission is Automatic. The paired drivetrain is FWD/Front-Wheel Drive.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2020 Kia Sorento?
EPA combined estimate is 20 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2020 Kia Sorento?
14 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.
How many people fit in a 2020 Kia Sorento?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2020 Kia Sorento, seating capacity is 7.
What drivetrain does the 2020 Kia Sorento use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2020 Kia Sorento, drivetrain is FWD/Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic.
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2020 Kia Sorento?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.
Are there open safety recalls on the 2020 Kia Sorento?
This model year has 7 official safety campaigns listed.
Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2020 Kia Sorento?
Alternatives listed in this guide: 2020 Toyota Highlander and 2020 Honda Pilot.