Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
About the 2023 Kia Sorento Base
Our scoring places the 2023 Kia Sorento Base at 7.9/10 overall, which translates to a Recommended rating for this suv. Its strongest dimension is Technology at 8.8/10. 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. At 8.5/10, reliability is one of this suv's best cards — few vehicles in our database score higher on this dimension. The 8.7/10 safety score puts it near the top of the class on this dimension; the official trim-level results at nhtsa.gov are worth a final check.
Performance is a genuine highlight at 8.6/10. The Kia Sorento Base delivers engaging driving dynamics — responsive handling, meaningful power delivery, and a drivetrain that rewards spirited driving without sacrificing daily usability. The cabin tech earns 8.8/10 — infotainment, smartphone integration, and driver-assistance are all close to the best this class offers.
Priced from $32,970–$42,713, 25 MPG, seating 7, the Kia Sorento Base sits in the mid-market bracket of the suv segment. Value is where it presses its advantage — 8.0/10, meaning the feature set and quality outrun the asking price. At 3 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.
Our take: The 2023 Kia Sorento Base is a solid, well-rounded suv that covers the essentials without obvious deal-breakers. For most buyers in this segment, it's a safe, dependable choice.
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 2023 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 $32,970 starting price undercuts the segment's median of $36,079 by about 9%.
Smart-money pick: the 2020 Kia Sorento Base scores 7.8/10 — within striking distance of the 2023'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.
Proven long-term reliability — lower unplanned repair costs than class average
Top-tier safety scores across crash tests and driver-assistance tech
Good overall value; holds its own against pricier alternatives in the segment
Engaging driving dynamics with class-leading power and handling
Best-in-class infotainment, driver assistance, and connectivity features
✗ 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
Common Questions — 2023 Kia Sorento Base
Is the 2023 Kia Sorento Base reliable?
We rate the 2023 Kia Sorento Base's reliability 8.5/10 — one of the stronger records in its class.
Is the 2023 Kia Sorento Base worth buying?
It scores 7.9/10 overall, ranking #293 of 2454 suvs in our database (better than 88% of the segment). A solid choice for most buyers — compare it against the segment leaders before deciding.
How much does the 2023 Kia Sorento Base cost?
The 2023 Kia Sorento Base starts at $32,970 and ranges up to $42,713 across trims (MSRP when new). At 25 MPG, expect roughly $2,100/year in fuel at 15,000 miles/year.
Owner Essentials — Kia Sorento Base
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Representative photo — may show another model year
