Sorento II (XM) vs Forester III (SH): which is better?
Kia Sorento II (XM) (2009–2014) vs Subaru Forester III (SH) (2008–2013): specs, fuel economy, tax and common problems.
Kia Sorento II (XM)
Subaru Forester III (SH)Specifications
| Kia Sorento II (XM) | Subaru Forester III (SH) | |
|---|---|---|
| Production years | 2009–2014 | 2008–2013 |
| Body | crossover SUV | crossover SUV |
| Fuel | petrol | petrol |
| Engines | 2.4 | 2.5 |
| Power, up to | 174 hp | 172 hp |
| Torque, up to | 227 Nm | 226 Nm |
| Gearbox | automatic | automatic |
| Drive | all-wheel drive | all-wheel drive |
| Length | 4 685 mm | 4 560 mm |
| Width | 1 885 mm | 1 780 mm |
| Height | 1 710 mm | 1 700 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2 700 mm | 2 615 mm |
| Ground clearance | 184 mm | 215 mm |
| Fuel tank | 70 L | 64 L |
| KZ tax 2026 (car under 10 years) | ≈ 28 750 ₸ | ≈ 29 450 ₸ |
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.
Subaru Forester III (SH)
Pros
- All-wheel-drive versions available
- Conventional automatic, no robotized gearbox or CVT
- High ground clearance: 215 mm
- Sold in all major markets of the region — parts and mechanics available
Cons
- Subaru EJ (2.0–2.5) engine: head gasket leaks
Engine (Subaru EJ (2.0–2.5)): head gasket leaks; oil consumption; head gasket on the EJ253.
Which one to choose
- Sorento II (XM) — if you care more about: power, torque, wheelbase, fuel tank, kz tax 2026.
- Forester III (SH) — if you care more about: ground clearance.
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 Forester III (SH)?
Sorento II (XM): up to 174 hp, Forester III (SH): up to 172 hp.
Which has more ground clearance?
Sorento II (XM): 184 mm, Forester III (SH): 215 mm.
What is the vehicle tax in Kazakhstan?
For 2026, for a car under 10 years old: Sorento II (XM) — about 28 750 ₸, Forester III (SH) — about 29 450 ₸ (base engine). A 0.7 factor applies to cars aged 10–20 years and 0.5 to cars over 20.