2022 Kia Sorento Base — Carivo review carivo.co
SUV

2022 Kia Sorento Base

Independent review & score by Carivo

Price Range $31,950–$42,638
Fuel Economy 24 MPG
Seating 7 passengers
Category SUV
Est. Annual Fuel $2,188/yr

Key Specifications — 2022 Kia Sorento Base

Seating Capacity7 passengers
Body StyleSUV
Base Price$31,950–$42,638

Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.

About the 2022 Kia Sorento Base

With an overall Carivo score of 7.9/10, the 2022 Kia Sorento Base earns a Recommended rating among the suvs we've scored. Its strongest dimension is Reliability at 8.5/10, while Safety at 6.7/10 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 the Kia Sorento Base's reliability at 8.5/10 — among the strongest in our suv database, reflecting the nameplate's track record and recall history. Safety is a notable gap at 6.7/10 in our scoring — below what the best in segment deliver. Check the official NHTSA ratings for the trim you're considering before deciding.

The 8.3/10 performance score reflects a chassis and powertrain that punch above the segment norm — this is a suv you choose partly for the drive itself. Technology scores 8.3/10 — one of the stronger tech packages in the segment. Expect a responsive infotainment system, broad smartphone integration, and a solid suite of driver-assistance features.

Priced from $31,950–$42,638, 24 MPG, seating 7, the Kia Sorento Base sits in the mid-market bracket of the suv segment. Value lands at 7.3/10 — you get what you pay for, no more and no less, with a few rivals offering slightly better per-dollar returns. At 4 years old, it's worth checking whether a newer generation or refresh has addressed any weaker dimensions — compare it to the current model year before buying.

Bottom line: Think of the 2022 Kia Sorento Base as the dependable pick rather than the exciting one. Its softer scores in safety 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 2022 Kia Sorento Base ranks #293 of 2454 suvs in the Carivo database — better than 88% of the segment. Its 7.9/10 overall score is 0.5 points above the segment average of 7.4/10. Its $31,950 starting price undercuts the segment's median of $36,079 by about 11%.

Rankings are recalculated as new vehicles and scores are added. See the full SUV ranking →

Which Sorento Base Year Should You Buy?

Smart-money pick: the 2019 Kia Sorento Base scores 7.7/10 — within striking distance of the 2022's 7.9 — and starts roughly $3,000 lower. If you don't need the newest model year, that's money better spent on a higher trim or kept in your pocket.

YearScoreStarting price (MSRP when new)
2025 8.1/10$35,009 Read review →
2024 8.0/10$33,990 Read review →
2023 7.9/10$32,970 Read review →
2022 (this review) 7.9/10$31,950
2021 7.9/10$30,930 Read review →
2020 7.8/10$29,911 Read review →
2019 7.7/10$28,891 Read review →
2018 7.6/10$27,871 Read review →
2017 7.6/10$26,852 Read review →
2016 7.6/10$25,832 Read review →
2015 7.6/10$24,812 Read review →

Pros & Cons — 2022 Kia Sorento Base

✓ What it does well

  • Proven long-term reliability — lower unplanned repair costs than class average
  • Competent performance that satisfies most everyday driving demands
  • Modern, intuitive tech suite with wireless connectivity and up-to-date ADAS
  • Versatile body style handles daily commuting and weekend adventures equally well

✗ Where it falls short

  • Few standout weaknesses — review individual sub-scores for nuance
  • Some competing models offer a higher overall score at a similar price

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