Ford Explorer vs Kia Sorento
The Kia Sorento is more fuel-efficient at 24 MPG combined, against 23 MPG for the Ford Explorer. At EPA assumptions that is about $100 less in fuel per year. (Comparison uses each model's most efficient version.)
Side by side
| Ford Explorer | Kia Sorento | |
|---|---|---|
| Complaints (NHTSA) | 2,800 | 1,299 |
| Most reported problem | Steering | Engine |
| Crashes and fires | 61 and 16 | 37 and 71 |
| Typical mileage at complaint | 74,000 miles | 79,000 miles |
| Recalls | 11 | 5 |
| Fuel economy, combined | 23 MPG | 24 MPG |
| City and highway | 20 and 27 | 21 and 30 |
| Yearly fuel cost (EPA) | $2,900 | $2,800 |
| NHTSA overall safety |
What the numbers say
NHTSA has 2,800 complaints for the Ford Explorer and 1,299 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.
NHTSA's overall safety ratings: 5 stars for the Ford Explorer, 4 stars for the Kia Sorento.
Safety recalls on file: 11 for the Ford Explorer, 5 for the Kia Sorento.