KIA SORENTO (2008)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 1,936 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
70%
Total Tests (2024)
1,936
Avg Mileage
108,273 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,050
Is the 2008 KIA SORENTO reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 12 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the KIA brand average of 86%.
At 16 years old, 70% of KIA SORENTOs from 2008 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 1,936 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 108,273 miles.
How does the 2008 KIA SORENTO compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2008 KIA SORENTO has 108,273 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 118,400 miles for a 16-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
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%. The 2008 sits between the two at 70%.
How much does a 2008 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 2008 KIA SORENTO
The 2008 KIA SORENTO is a large car with a 2497cc diesel engine. 1,936 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a reasonably common sight on UK roads. It sits in the bottom 78% of 2008 cars for MOT pass rates.
With an average of 108,273 miles at 16 years old, KIA SORENTO owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2008 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 2008 KIA SORENTO?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,050 (£171/month), broken down as £1245 fuel, £250 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 70% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
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 2008 KIA SORENTO
At 16 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. If you're flexible on year, the 2020 model has the highest pass rate at 92%.
Alternatives to the 2008 KIA SORENTO
If reliability is your priority, there are 3 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- BMW 3 SERIES (2008) 80% pass rate (+10%) from 48,705 tests
- HONDA CIVIC (2007) 72% pass rate (+2%) from 45,025 tests
- FORD TRANSIT (2010) 69% pass rate (-1%) from 31,633 tests
- FORD MONDEO (2010) 75% pass rate (+5%) from 29,714 tests