In 2011, the Kia Sorento switched to a unibody chassis and a front-wheel-drive biased driveline allowing Kia to market the Sorento as a crossover. The Sorento which offers both 5-passenger and 7-passenger seating options is on the smaller end of the segment for 7-passenger vehicles. For example, the Sorento is about 4 inches shorter than a Toyota Highlander and over a foot shorter than a Ford Explorer. This places the Sorento at a disadvantage for three-row legroom and cargo volume. The base engine in the Sorento is a 2.4l four-cylinder. A more powerful V6 engine is available on all trim levels. Like other Kia models, the Sorento represents a good value including desirable features for a lower price than many competitive vehicles. An all-wheel-drive Sorento V6 with leather seating lists for under $34,000.

The Sorento now includes a standard hands-free entertainment and communication system. Minor changes to standard equipment.