Sorento III (UM) vs NX I (AZ10): which is better?
Kia Sorento III (UM) (2014–2020) vs Lexus NX I (AZ10) (2014–2021): specs, fuel economy, tax and common problems.
Kia Sorento III (UM)
Lexus NX I (AZ10)Specifications
| Kia Sorento III (UM) | Lexus NX I (AZ10) | |
|---|---|---|
| Production years | 2014–2020 | 2014–2021 |
| Body | crossover SUV | crossover SUV |
| Fuel | petrol | petrol |
| Engines | 3.5 V6 | 2.0 Turbo (NX200t) |
| Power, up to | 249 hp | 238 hp |
| Torque, up to | 336 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Gearbox | automatic | automatic |
| Drive | all-wheel drive | all-wheel drive |
| Length | 4 800 mm | 4 630 mm |
| Width | 1 890 mm | 1 845 mm |
| Height | 1 690 mm | 1 645 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2 780 mm | 2 660 mm |
| Ground clearance | 185 mm | — |
| Fuel tank | 71 L | 60 L |
| KZ tax 2026 (car under 10 years) | ≈ 68 375 ₸ | ≈ 16 475 ₸ |
The better value is highlighted in green.
Pros, cons and common problems
Kia Sorento III (UM)
Pros
- Powerful versions: up to 249 hp
- All-wheel-drive versions available
- Conventional automatic, no robotized gearbox or CVT
- Large tank: 71 L
Cons
- Hyundai/Kia Lambda engine (V6): timing chain stretch at high mileage
- Hyundai/Kia automatic: jolts on 2–3 shifts and when braking
Engine (Hyundai/Kia Lambda (V6)): timing chain stretch at high mileage; oil leaks.
Gearbox (Hyundai/Kia automatic): kicks on the 2–3 shift and when braking; solenoid and clutch pack wear at high mileage.
Lexus NX I (AZ10)
Pros
- Gearbox Aisin automatic: generally reliable
- All-wheel-drive versions available
- Sold in all major markets of the region — parts and mechanics available
Cons
- Gearbox Aisin automatic: valve body wear at high mileage
Gearbox (Aisin automatic): generally reliable; at high mileage — valve body wear.
Which one to choose
- Sorento III (UM) — if you care more about: power, wheelbase, fuel tank.
- NX I (AZ10) — 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 III (UM) or NX I (AZ10)?
Sorento III (UM): up to 249 hp, NX I (AZ10): up to 238 hp.
What is the vehicle tax in Kazakhstan?
For 2026, for a car under 10 years old: Sorento III (UM) — about 68 375 ₸, NX I (AZ10) — about 16 475 ₸ (base engine). A 0.7 factor applies to cars aged 10–20 years and 0.5 to cars over 20.