Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
About the 2016 Kia Sorento Base
With an overall Carivo score of 7.6/10, the 2016 Kia Sorento Base earns a Recommended rating among the suvs we've scored. Its strongest dimension is Safety at 8.2/10, while Technology at 6.6/10 is where it trails the competition most noticeably. It's a solid all-rounder that delivers across most dimensions without obvious deal-breakers.
Reliability and safety are the two dimensions that matter most for long-term ownership costs. We rate reliability at 6.7/10 — below the segment average in our scoring. Budget for potentially higher maintenance costs and check the recall record below before buying. On safety it earns 8.2/10: respectable, if not class-leading — several competitors bundle more driver-assist tech as standard. Check your trim's official ratings at nhtsa.gov.
Performance at 6.8/10 is a genuine liability and a score that should factor heavily into any buying decision. The powertrain and chassis dynamics trail class rivals by a meaningful margin — don't overlook it. Technology scores 6.6/10 — the infotainment and driver-assist features feel dated against current-generation rivals. This is worth weighing if you prioritize connected features or modern safety tech.
Priced from $25,832–$30,614, 18 MPG, seating 7, the Kia Sorento Base sits in the mid-market bracket of the suv segment. Value lands at 7.1/10 — you get what you pay for, no more and no less, with a few rivals offering slightly better per-dollar returns. At 10 years old, resale value, parts availability, and whether a successor model has improved on its weak points are all worth investigating before committing.
Bottom line: Think of the 2016 Kia Sorento Base as the dependable pick rather than the exciting one. Its softer scores in performance and reliability and technology are the only real asterisks. Shoppers who value predictability over headlines will be well served.
Carivo scores are our own editorial assessment, informed by NHTSA safety and recall records, EPA fuel-economy figures, and manufacturer-published specifications. Scores are reviewed periodically and updated when new data becomes available. See our full methodology →
How It Ranks Among SUVs
The 2016 Kia Sorento Base ranks #737 of 2454 suvs in the Carivo database — better than 70% of the segment. Its 7.6/10 overall score is 0.2 points above the segment average of 7.4/10. Its $25,832 starting price undercuts the segment's median of $36,079 by about 28%.
Varies widely by driver and state — always quote the exact trim before buying
We only print costs we can compute from sourced data (EPA fuel economy, NHTSA recalls). We don't estimate maintenance or depreciation — anyone who gives you one number for those is guessing.
Which Sorento Base Year Should You Buy?
Across the Sorento Base model years we've scored, the 2016 holds its position — we didn't find an older year that delivers similar scores for meaningfully less money.
Strong safety ratings from NHTSA and independent testers
Versatile body style handles daily commuting and weekend adventures equally well
✗ Where it falls short
Reliability scores are mid-pack; some owners report higher-than-expected maintenance needs
Driving dynamics are adequate but uninspiring; not the choice for enthusiast drivers
Tech suite is functional but lags behind segment-best options; some features cost extra
Fuel economy at 18 MPG is low — running costs will add up quickly
Common Questions — 2016 Kia Sorento Base
Is the 2016 Kia Sorento Base reliable?
We rate the 2016 Kia Sorento Base's reliability 6.7/10 — below the segment average, so budget for higher maintenance.
Is the 2016 Kia Sorento Base worth buying?
It scores 7.6/10 overall, ranking #737 of 2454 suvs in our database (better than 70% of the segment). A solid choice for most buyers — compare it against the segment leaders before deciding.
How much does the 2016 Kia Sorento Base cost?
The 2016 Kia Sorento Base starts at $25,832 and ranges up to $30,614 across trims (MSRP when new). At 18 MPG, expect roughly $2,917/year in fuel at 15,000 miles/year.
Which Sorento Base years should you avoid?
Based on our year-by-year scoring, the weakest Sorento Base years we've rated are 2018 (7.6/10), 2017 (7.6/10), 2016 (7.6/10) — each at least half a point below the nameplate's best (8.1/10). See the full year table above before deciding.
Owner Essentials — Kia Sorento Base
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More Kia Reviews
Explore the full lineup of Kia models scored by Carivo — ranked by overall score across reliability, safety, value, performance, and technology.
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