2009 Kia Sorento: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The main change for the 2009 Kia Sorento is the addition of the Base, LX, and EX trim lineup. Beyond that trim change, this is a quiet carryover year with no redesign or major mechanical, styling, safety, or technology update.
About the 2009 Kia Sorento
1st generation (2003-2009), final U.S. model year before the all-new 2011 Sorento crossover redesign.
The 2009 Sorento is Kia’s value-focused traditional midsize SUV. Unlike softer car-based crossovers of its era, it uses body-on-frame construction and true SUV hardware that support towing and light off-road use. Kia marketed it as a five-passenger utility vehicle with strong standard safety equipment, V6 power across the range, and more toughness than many similarly priced family crossovers.
The lineup starts with the straightforward Base model, while the LX adds useful everyday features such as cruise control, keyless entry, and roof rails. The EX is the stronger and better-equipped version, with a 3.8-liter V6, a power driver’s seat, heated mirrors, fog lights, and a trip computer.
What changed, by category
2009 Kia Sorento specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | V6, 3.8 Liter | V6, 3.3 Liter | V6, 3.3 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 5-Spd w/Overdrive & Sportmatic | Automatic, 5-Spd w/Overdrive & Sportmatic | Automatic, 5-Spd w/Overdrive & Sportmatic |
| Drivetrain | 4WD | 4WD | 2WD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 15 mpg | 16 mpg | 16 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 21 mpg | 22 mpg | 22 mpg |
| Horsepower | 262 hp | 242 hp | 242 hp |
| Torque | 260 lb-ft | 228 lb-ft | 228 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 5000 lb | 3500 lb | 3500 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 31.7 cu-ft | 31.7 cu-ft | 31.7 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 36.1 in | 36.1 in | 36.1 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Cruise Control | |||
| Alloy Wheels | |||
| Fog Lights | |||
| Heated Windshield | |||
| Power Moonroof | |||
| Rear Spoiler | |||
| Roof Rails | |||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | |||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | |||
| Heated Front Seats | |||
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | |||
| Leather Seats | |||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | |||
| Power Driver Seat | |||
| Remote Start | |||
| Tilt Wheel | |||
| Wood Interior Trim | |||
Frequently asked questions
Is the 2009 Kia Sorento a redesigned model?
No, the 2009 Kia Sorento is not a redesign. It retains the previous year’s truck-style body-on-frame construction, V6 engines, five-speed automatic transmission, and overall styling.
Which trims were added to the 2009 Kia Sorento lineup?
Base, LX, and EX were added to the 2009 Kia Sorento lineup. Base is the simplest version, LX adds everyday convenience features, and EX gets the stronger engine and more comfort equipment.
Did the 2009 Kia Sorento get a new engine?
No, there was no major engine update for 2009. Base and LX use a 3.3-liter V6, while EX uses a 3.8-liter V6; every trim has a five-speed automatic transmission.
Does the 2009 Kia Sorento have four-wheel drive?
Yes, some 2009 Kia Sorentos have four-wheel drive. LX and EX were sold in both two-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive versions.
Is 2009 the final year of this Kia Sorento generation?
Yes, 2009 is the final U.S. model year of the first-generation Sorento. Kia replaced it with the all-new 2011 Sorento crossover.