Ford Explorer vs Kia Sorento
The Kia Sorento is more fuel-efficient at 24 MPG combined, against 20 MPG for the Ford Explorer. At EPA assumptions that is about $550 less in fuel per year. (Comparison uses each model's most efficient version.)
Side by side
| Ford Explorer | Kia Sorento | |
|---|---|---|
| Complaints (NHTSA) | 1,501 | 2,080 |
| Most reported problem | Steering | Engine |
| Crashes and fires | 48 and 4 | 65 and 111 |
| Typical mileage at complaint | 65,000 miles | 80,000 miles |
| Recalls | 6 | 7 |
| Fuel economy, combined | 20 MPG | 24 MPG |
| City and highway | 18 and 25 | 21 and 28 |
| Yearly fuel cost (EPA) | $3,350 | $2,800 |
| NHTSA overall safety | Not rated |
What the numbers say
NHTSA has 1,501 complaints for the Ford Explorer and 2,080 for the Kia Sorento. Complaint counts depend heavily on how many of each vehicle were sold, so a higher count does not by itself mean a less reliable car.
Safety recalls on file: 6 for the Ford Explorer, 7 for the Kia Sorento.