From the side, particularly around the C-pillar, there's a slight resemblance to the Lexus RX300, but the front has a distinct look, if somewhat Mercedes M-Class-ish. From the rear, the Sorento has distinctively broad shoulders, thanks to a shoulder line that steps out and sweeps around the tailgate. The truck's width, wider than most of its competitors, is apparent from this angle. Sorento's headlights have stylish clear covers. Out back, Kia managed to do something different with the taillights, circular with dots of red in a spoke-like pattern.

The Sorento's front and rear overhangs are short, something that anyone who takes the Sorento seriously off road will appreciate. Those who frequent colder climes will appreciate the standard rear defroster and rear wiper, and the hot-wire windshield deicer.

The EX has a two-tone treatment with lower body cladding in a contrasting color. The LX doesn't have the cladding. A roof rack is standard on the EX, but optional on the LX.