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2025 Kia Sorento Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated Jun 10, 2026·Ethan Miller·2 Critical Recalls
2025 Kia Sorento Report

Overall Score

6.9/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The 2025 Kia Sorento has an average public reliability verdict.
  • A significant number of recalls, including critical engine and lighting system defects, have been issued.
  • The primary ownership concern is potential engine failure due to improperly tightened connecting rod bolts.
  • Buyers must verify that all outstanding recalls, especially the engine fastener recall, have been properly addressed.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2025 Kia Sorento

The 2025 Kia Sorento offers a blend of utility and efficiency, making it a practical choice for families. However, used car shoppers should be aware of its average reliability rating, which is impacted by a significant number of recalls, particularly concerning the engine and critical lighting systems. While it boasts a 5-star overall NHTSA safety rating, the number of recalls suggests potential early lifecycle quality concerns that warrant thorough inspection. Fuel economy is respectable for its class, but potential buyers need to weigh this against the documented mechanical concerns.

Critical Failure Risk

Improperly tightened connecting rod bolts can lead to catastrophic engine failure and loss of power. This is a critical manufacturing defect.

Early detection can help you avoid a $4,000-$7,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls19
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
23
MPG
City
20
MPG
Highway
29
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

5.9/ 10

Practicality

5.0/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Families seeking a practical SUV with good fuel economy.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers prioritizing long-term, worry-free ownership.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2025 Kia Sorento Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2025 Kia Sorento.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Transmission
Automatic (AM-S8)
Drivetrain
Front-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Suv
EPA Combined MPG
23

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See the full 2025 Kia Sorento buyer report before you decide

Unlock the complete checklist, maintenance outlook, and buyer verdict in one place.

Most Common Issues

1. Engine Connecting Rod Bolt Failure

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Body Domain Control Unit (BDC) Software Error

Usage data observed

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes

Est. shop cost: $100 - $175

7,500 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (5 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
19 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2025 Kia Sorento reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2025 Kia Sorento is 5.9/10. Reliability score is 5.9/10. NHTSA recalls: 19. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2025 Kia Sorento for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.0/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 23 MPG.

What is the overall score for the 2025 Kia Sorento?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2025 Kia Sorento is 6.9/10. Overall score is 6.9/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.4/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2025 Kia Sorento?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $600. Repair prediction highlight: Engine Connecting Rod Bolts (typical at 50,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $4,000 • Max: $7,000).

What engine is in the 2025 Kia Sorento?▾

Engine specs list 4 • 2.5.

What transmission does the 2025 Kia Sorento use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2025 Kia Sorento, transmission is Automatic (AM-S8). The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2025 Kia Sorento?▾

EPA combined estimate is 23 MPG.

What kind of powertrain does the 2025 Kia Sorento use?▾

Powertrain classification is Hybrid (HEV).

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2025 Kia Sorento?▾

16 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

What body style is the 2025 Kia Sorento?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2025 Kia Sorento, body style is suv.

What drivetrain does the 2025 Kia Sorento use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2025 Kia Sorento, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (AM-S8).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2025 Kia Sorento?▾

NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.

Are there open safety recalls on the 2025 Kia Sorento?▾

This model year has 19 official safety campaigns listed.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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