2013 Kia Sorento
Changes for the 2013 Kia Sorento
For 2013, Kia includes an automatic transmission and the UVO infotainment system as standard equipment for all Sorento models. The base model no longer exists; the LX is now considered the entry-level model. The EX trim level comes standard with leather, and the price of the SX has dropped a bit.
Model Lineup
The 2013 Kia Sorento, a 5- or 7-passenger crossover SUV that can carry up to 72.5 cu.-ft. of cargo, can be furnished in LX, EX and SX trim levels.
On the base LX you’ll find 17-inch aluminum wheels, Bluetooth connectivity, a USB port, an auxiliary audio input jack, a UVO infotainment system, and power windows, door locks, and mirrors. The LX V6 model adds a standard third-row seat. The Sorento EX is equipped with 18-inch alloys, fog lights, a reverse sensing system, leather upholstery, dual-zone automatic climate control, and keyless entry with push-button ignition. Chrome wheels and roof rails, body-color trim, and LED taillights distinguish the top-of-the-line SX on the outside. Inside, you’ll find a premium surround sound audio system, enhanced gauges, rear air conditioning, and a ventilated driver’s seat.
Among the Sorento’s optional features are a navigation system with real-time traffic information, a panoramic sunroof and a rear entertainment system.
Engines and Transmissions
The standard engine for the Sorento LX is a 175-horsepower, 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine. The EX adds direct fuel-injection on that same engine, bumping power output to 191 horsepower. The Sorento SX is powered by a 276-horsepower, 3.5-liter V-6, an engine which is optional for the LX and EX. A 6-speed Sportmatic automatic transmission is standard, delivering power to the SUV’s front wheels. All-wheel drive is optional.
Fuel Economy Ratings
The EPA estimates that the Sorento LX with front-wheel drive will return 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. The optional AWD system decreases those numbers to 21-mpg city/27-mpg highway mpg.
The direct-injected 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine installed in the Sorento EX is rated for 22-mpg city/32-mpg highway with front-wheel drive. Adding AWD results in 21-mpg city/28-mpg highway.
The Sorento SX’s V-6 engine will get 18-mpg city/23-mpg highway, with the AWD reducing those numbers to 18-mpg city/24-mpg highway.
Safety Ratings
The Sorento earns a 4-Star overall crash-test rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) calls the 2013 Sorento a “Top Safety Pick.”
Technology Highlights
Kia’s UVO infotainment system is standard on all 2013 Sorento models, and includes voice-activated operation. It also includes a hard-drive Jukebox function and Bluetooth audio streaming. A navigation system with real-time traffic reports is optional, along with a premium sound system and a rear-seat entertainment system.
