KIA SORENTO (2003)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 407 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
65%
Total Tests (2024)
407
Avg Mileage
120,995 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,250
Is the 2003 KIA SORENTO reliable?
Below average reliability. Budget extra for maintenance and repairs. That's 17 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the KIA brand average of 86%.
At 21 years old, 65% of KIA SORENTOs from 2003 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 407 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 120,995 miles.
How does the 2003 KIA SORENTO compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2003 KIA SORENTO has 120,995 miles on the clock, which is below the expected 155,400 miles for a 21-year-old car. This suggests lighter use than average, which generally means less wear on major components.
Best year to buy a KIA SORENTO?
The most reliable year is the 2020 model with a 92% MOT pass rate, while the 2003 model has the lowest at 65%. Consider a different year if reliability is a priority.
How much does a 2003 KIA SORENTO cost to run?
Higher than average due to low pass rate
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
KIA SORENTO by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 92% | 797 | 36,475 mi |
| 2019 | 90% | 5,231 | 43,737 mi |
| 2018 | 89% | 5,394 | 52,871 mi |
| 2017 | 88% | 5,869 | 60,803 mi |
| 2016 | 84% | 5,714 | 72,775 mi |
| 2015 | 83% | 7,581 | 79,583 mi |
| 2014 | 79% | 5,512 | 87,900 mi |
| 2013 | 77% | 4,199 | 97,498 mi |
| 2012 | 75% | 3,653 | 105,666 mi |
| 2011 | 75% | 3,283 | 110,486 mi |
| 2010 | 73% | 3,463 | 113,933 mi |
| 2009 | 72% | 2,396 | 107,820 mi |
| 2008 | 70% | 1,936 | 108,273 mi |
| 2007 | 72% | 2,670 | 112,654 mi |
| 2006 | 67% | 3,595 | 117,298 mi |
| 2005 | 66% | 1,973 | 116,648 mi |
| 2004 | 65% | 1,065 | 115,317 mi |
| 2003 | 65% | 407 | 120,995 mi |
Checking a specific KIA SORENTO?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2003 KIA SORENTO
The 2003 KIA SORENTO is a large car with a 2497cc diesel engine. 407 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a less common model in the UK market. It sits in the bottom 89% of 2003 cars for MOT pass rates.
With an average of 120,995 miles at 21 years old, KIA SORENTO owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver.
2003 KIA SORENTO Fuel Costs
The 2497cc diesel engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 40 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,245 per year at current diesel prices of 148p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year). Diesel cars of this age should have their DPF (diesel particulate filter) checked, as replacements can be costly.
What does it cost to own a 2003 KIA SORENTO?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,250 (£188/month), broken down as £1245 fuel, £250 road tax, £55 MOT, and £700 predicted repairs. The higher repair estimate reflects the 65% MOT pass rate. Cars in this bracket tend to need work on suspension, brakes, and emissions components.
KIA SORENTO Reliability Trend
Newer KIA SORENTOs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 15 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2003 KIA SORENTO
At 21 years old, the KIA SORENTO is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age.
Alternatives to the 2003 KIA SORENTO
If reliability is your priority, there are 4 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- BMW 3 SERIES (2005) 78% pass rate (+13%) from 24,924 tests
- HONDA CIVIC (2005) 73% pass rate (+8%) from 24,685 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN TRANSPORTER (2005) 72% pass rate (+7%) from 20,813 tests
- LAND ROVER DISCOVERY (2005) 78% pass rate (+13%) from 17,079 tests