Final Decision: Kia Sorento versus Toyota Highlander Limited

[HuskyMan]

Both have V6 engines but it appears Toyota may build a better V6 engine. Tne new Kia Sorentos are built in China and Russia......

[Mike Murrell]

I wish all of my decisions were this tough.

[HuskyMan]

Almost forgot, the Kia Sorento is a 2014 with the EX trim level....

[Mike Murrell]

OK...I'll be more serious this time.

In the past 36 yrs., I've owned 5 Toyota's...3 trucks, 1 SUV; 1 car. My eldest child was given to an indigent relation at 415,000 miles. Never had an issue with the truck. Sister-in-law managed to kill it shortly after. The other 4 are still running. All have gone well over 200K miles; one approaching 300K with just minimal maint.

I really don't know anything about KIAs, but you may have answered your question with the comment about where part of the vehicle was made.

Another thing that's always impressed me about Toyota is their toll-free customer service issue. If you are being jerked around on a warranty issue, they will be all over the dealer. I have not been down that road, but on Toyota forums, many have reported success bringing big brother in so solve this sort of thing. I wonder if Kia is this proactive?

Either way, I hope your choice serves you well.

[HuskyMan]

Thank you Mike for sharing your experiences. I'm leaning towards Toyota due to what you shared. While Kia appears to be an up and comer, I believe Toyota has FAR more experience in delivering a quality product over a much longer period of time......

[Mike Murrell]

And, basic maintenance of Toyota's is pretty straight-forward.

The older Highlander's had front-wheel drive and as a result, an east-west engine. Oil, coolant, air filter, Mass air Flow Sensor cleaning, Power steering fluid/Brake fliud changes, etc - all pretty easy. Transmission fluid dipstick were eliminated on many Toyota's starting on '05 - just about all were absent by mid-'07. Not a problem. Countless videos on YT on how to deal with this.

[HuskyMan]

On CBS sunday news yesterday they showed both Kia Sorentos and Hyundai's bursting into flames, sometimes resulting in serious injury to the occupants. Seems the problem is linked to the fuel pumps/fuel lines being defective and/or faulty wiring issues.

Needless to say, this has my attention and I believe I'll take a pass on Hyundai or Kia.....check it out on youtube....YIKES!!