Sorento II (XM) vs Yeti I: which is better?
Kia Sorento II (XM) (2009–2014) vs Skoda Yeti I (2009–2017): specs, fuel economy, tax and common problems.
Kia Sorento II (XM)
Skoda Yeti ISpecifications
| Kia Sorento II (XM) | Skoda Yeti I | |
|---|---|---|
| Production years | 2009–2014 | 2009–2017 |
| Body | crossover SUV | crossover SUV |
| Fuel | petrol | petrol |
| Engines | 2.4 | 1.8 TSI |
| Power, up to | 174 hp | 152 hp |
| Torque, up to | 227 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Gearbox | automatic | dual-clutch (DCT) |
| Drive | all-wheel drive | all-wheel drive |
| Length | 4 685 mm | 4 222 mm |
| Width | 1 885 mm | 1 793 mm |
| Height | 1 710 mm | 1 691 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2 700 mm | 2 578 mm |
| Ground clearance | 184 mm | — |
| Fuel tank | 70 L | 60 L |
| KZ tax 2026 (car under 10 years) | ≈ 28 750 ₸ | ≈ 15 075 ₸ |
The better value is highlighted in green.
Pros, cons and common problems
Kia Sorento II (XM)
Pros
- All-wheel-drive versions available
- Conventional automatic, no robotized gearbox or CVT
- Large tank: 70 L
- Sold in all major markets of the region — parts and mechanics available
Cons
- Hyundai/Kia Theta II engine (G4KD, G4KE, G4KJ): cylinder scoring (especially the direct-injection G4KJ)
- Hyundai/Kia automatic: jolts on 2–3 shifts and when braking
Engine (Hyundai/Kia Theta II (G4KD, G4KE, G4KJ)): cylinder scoring (especially the direct-injection G4KJ); knocking and oil consumption; catalytic converter debris in the cylinders.
Gearbox (Hyundai/Kia automatic): kicks on the 2–3 shift and when braking; solenoid and clutch pack wear at high mileage.
Skoda Yeti I
Pros
- All-wheel-drive versions available
Cons
- Engine VW/Audi EA888 (1.8–2.0 TSI/TFSI): oil consumption (piston rings) on second-generation engines
- Gearbox DSG/S tronic with wet clutch: clutch and mechatronics wear at high mileage
Engine (VW/Audi EA888 (1.8–2.0 TSI/TFSI)): oil consumption (piston rings) on second-generation engines; timing chain stretch and tensioner on early engines; plastic water pump and thermostat housing leaks.
Gearbox (DSG/S tronic with wet clutch): clutch and mechatronic wear at high mileage; wears quickly without oil changes.
Which one to choose
- Sorento II (XM) — if you care more about: power, wheelbase, fuel tank.
- Yeti I — if you care more about: torque, kz tax 2026.
The condition of a specific car matters more than the model: check the service history and get the engine and gearbox inspected before buying.
FAQ
Which is more powerful: Sorento II (XM) or Yeti I?
Sorento II (XM): up to 174 hp, Yeti I: up to 152 hp.
What is the vehicle tax in Kazakhstan?
For 2026, for a car under 10 years old: Sorento II (XM) — about 28 750 ₸, Yeti I — about 15 075 ₸ (base engine). A 0.7 factor applies to cars aged 10–20 years and 0.5 to cars over 20.