The 2014 model year marked a decisive turning point for the Kia Sorento. This wasn’t a mild refresh meant to keep showroom traffic alive; it was a ground-up rethink of what a midsize crossover could deliver for families, commuters, and long-distance drivers alike. Kia took a vehicle that was already selling well in the U.S. and rebuilt it with a clear objective: elevate comfort, refinement, and technology without abandoning affordability.
Assembled in West Point, Georgia, the 2014 Sorento arrived riding on an all-new platform, with more than 80 percent of its components either redesigned or entirely new. That statistic matters because the improvements weren’t cosmetic. They were structural, mechanical, and experiential—changes you could feel from the driver’s seat within minutes.
A Platform That Changed the Way It Drove
One of the most meaningful upgrades lay beneath the sheet metal. The new chassis increased torsional rigidity by roughly 18 percent, and that translated directly into better ride quality and more confident handling. Kia’s engineers focused on isolating road noise while improving stability, especially during highway cruising and quick lane changes.
Electric motor-driven power steering replaced the previous hydraulic setup, sharpening steering response and trimming weight. For the first time, drivers could choose between Comfort, Normal, and Sport steering modes. It wasn’t a gimmick; the difference was noticeable, particularly when transitioning from relaxed city driving to more assertive highway maneuvers.
On real roads, this meant fewer corrections on uneven pavement and a calmer feel during long journeys—qualities that matter more in daily ownership than lap times or marketing slogans.
Powertrains That Finally Matched the Ambition
The headline change for 2014 was the introduction of a new 3.3-liter GDI V6 engine. Producing 290 horsepower, it gave the Sorento genuine authority, especially when fully loaded with passengers or climbing steep grades. Acceleration felt smooth rather than aggressive, but there was no doubt this engine had reserves when needed.
For buyers prioritizing efficiency, the 2.4-liter GDI four-cylinder remained available, offering a sensible balance of fuel economy and everyday performance. Both engines paired with a six-speed automatic transmission that favored smoothness over flash, reinforcing the Sorento’s role as a refined family vehicle rather than a sporty outlier.
Available all-wheel drive was enhanced with torque vectoring cornering control, subtly improving grip and stability in challenging conditions. Whether dealing with wet roads or light snow, the system worked unobtrusively, which is exactly how such technology should behave.
Exterior Styling That Grew More Confident
Visually, the 2014 Sorento looked more mature and deliberate. The front fascia adopted a wider, lower stance, while refined lighting elements—particularly LED accents—gave it a distinctive presence without venturing into excess. Larger wheel options, including new 19-inch designs, added to the upscale impression.
From the rear, horizontal taillamps emphasized width, making the Sorento appear planted and stable. It was still clearly a Kia, but one that had grown into its role, projecting confidence rather than trying to prove itself.
An Interior That Prioritized the Driver
Step inside, and the transformation became even clearer. The dashboard layout was redesigned for better ergonomics, with controls placed logically and within easy reach. Higher trims introduced a large digital display in the instrument cluster, blending analog clarity with modern information delivery.
The center stack accommodated a larger touchscreen, integrating navigation, audio, connectivity, and vehicle settings into a single, intuitive interface. Kia’s next-generation voice-activated infotainment system made its debut here, allowing drivers to manage calls, music, and navigation with minimal distraction.
Seating comfort improved across all rows, with better cushioning and available ventilated front seats—features that were once rare in this segment. Small details, like improved materials and thoughtful storage solutions, reinforced the sense that Kia had paid attention to how people actually use their vehicles.
How It Compared to Its Rivals
Against competitors from the same era, the 2014 Sorento carved out a distinct position by blending power, refinement, and value.
| Vehicle (2014) | Max Horsepower | Ride Comfort | Interior Tech |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kia Sorento | 290 hp | Smooth, quiet | Advanced for class |
| Toyota Highlander | 270 hp | Very comfortable | Conservative |
| Honda Pilot | 250 hp | Stable, firm | Practical |
| Ford Edge | 285 hp | Sporty bias | Feature-rich |
What set the Sorento apart was how evenly matched it felt across categories. It didn’t dominate one area at the expense of others, making it a compelling all-rounder rather than a niche choice.
Safety and Driver Confidence
The 2014 model year also introduced Kia’s first blind spot detection system, a significant step forward at the time. Alongside a full complement of airbags, stability control, and traction aids, the Sorento delivered reassurance without overwhelming the driver with alerts.
These systems worked quietly, reinforcing confidence rather than demanding attention—a balance that many manufacturers struggled to achieve during this period of rapid technological adoption.
Real-World Driving and Practical Ownership
Picture a weekday commute followed by a weekend road trip. During the week, the Sorento’s refined ride and intuitive controls reduce fatigue in traffic. On the weekend, the same vehicle swallows luggage, keeps passengers comfortable, and cruises effortlessly at highway speeds. That duality is where the 2014 Sorento excelled: it adapted seamlessly to different roles without asking owners to compromise.
Related: 2013 Kia Sorento Overview
Conclusion
The 2014 Kia Sorento wasn’t just redesigned—it was redefined. By investing heavily in its platform, powertrains, and interior experience, Kia created a crossover that felt genuinely competitive with established leaders in the segment. It delivered meaningful improvements where they mattered most: ride comfort, performance confidence, and everyday usability. For buyers seeking a well-rounded midsize crossover with substance behind the styling, the 2014 Sorento represented one of Kia’s most convincing statements yet.
FAQs
Is the 2014 Kia Sorento a full redesign?
Yes. It rides on an all-new platform with extensive mechanical and interior changes, making it far more than a cosmetic update.
How powerful is the V6 engine?
The 3.3-liter GDI V6 produces 290 horsepower, offering strong acceleration and confident highway performance.
Does it support modern infotainment features?
For its time, the system was advanced, featuring voice activation, navigation, and connectivity that still feels usable today.
Is it suitable for long-distance travel?
Absolutely. Improved ride quality, supportive seating, and reduced cabin noise make it well-suited for extended drives.
How does it hold up today?
With proper maintenance, many owners find the 2014 Sorento remains comfortable, capable, and reliable, especially considering its original value proposition.
