Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
About the 2023 Kia Sorento SL
The 2023 Kia Sorento SL is a suv that earns a Carivo score of 7.9/10 — rated Recommended. Its strongest dimension is Value at 8.9/10, while Safety at 6.5/10 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. The reliability picture is solid rather than spectacular: 8.2/10, which puts it comfortably above the class median. Safety is a notable gap at 6.5/10 in our scoring — below what the best in segment deliver. Check the official NHTSA ratings for the trim you're considering before deciding.
With 7.6/10 for performance, this is a car tuned for daily driving rather than excitement — perfectly capable on the commute, unremarkable on a back road. At 7.9/10 for technology, the infotainment and driver-assist package does its job without setting benchmarks — check which features cost extra on lower trims.
Priced from $42,861–$55,526, 25 MPG, seating 7, the Kia Sorento SL sits in the mid-market bracket of the suv segment. Its value score of 8.9/10 confirms that the price reflects the quality — you're getting a lot for your money here. 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.
Verdict: Nothing about the 2023 Kia Sorento SL will scare a sensible buyer off. Keep an eye on safety if those matter to you; otherwise it does what a good suv should — quietly and competently.
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 SL 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 $42,861 starting price is about 19% above the segment's median of $36,079.
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 SL Year Should You Buy?
Smart-money pick: the 2020 Kia Sorento SL scores 7.7/10 — within striking distance of the 2023's 7.9 — and starts roughly $4,000 lower. If you don't need the newest model year, that's money better spent on a higher trim or kept in your pocket.
Above-average reliability record with solid owner satisfaction data
Exceptional value for money — high-quality features at a competitive price point
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
Common Questions — 2023 Kia Sorento SL
Is the 2023 Kia Sorento SL reliable?
We rate the 2023 Kia Sorento SL's reliability 8.2/10 — one of the stronger records in its class.
Is the 2023 Kia Sorento SL 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 SL cost?
The 2023 Kia Sorento SL starts at $42,861 and ranges up to $55,526 across trims (MSRP when new). At 25 MPG, expect roughly $2,100/year in fuel at 15,000 miles/year.
Which Sorento SL years should you avoid?
Based on our year-by-year scoring, the weakest Sorento SL years we've rated are 2017 (7.5/10), 2018 (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 SL
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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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