Sorento III (UM) vs Macan I (95B): which is better?
Kia Sorento III (UM) (2014–2020) vs Porsche Macan I (95B) (2014–present): specs, fuel economy, tax and common problems.
Kia Sorento III (UM)
Porsche Macan I (95B)Specifications
| Kia Sorento III (UM) | Porsche Macan I (95B) | |
|---|---|---|
| Production years | 2014–2020 | 2014–present |
| Body | crossover SUV | crossover SUV |
| Fuel | petrol | petrol |
| Engines | 3.5 V6 | 2.0 Turbo |
| Power, up to | 249 hp | 252 hp |
| Torque, up to | 336 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Gearbox | automatic | dual-clutch (DCT) |
| Drive | all-wheel drive | all-wheel drive |
| Length | 4 800 mm | 4 696 mm |
| Width | 1 890 mm | 1 923 mm |
| Height | 1 690 mm | 1 624 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2 780 mm | 2 807 mm |
| Ground clearance | 185 mm | — |
| Fuel tank | 71 L | 65 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.
Porsche Macan I (95B)
Pros
- Powerful versions: up to 252 hp
- All-wheel-drive versions available
- Currently in production — can be bought new
- Sold in all major markets of the region — parts and mechanics available
Cons
- Engine VW/Audi EA888 (1.8–2.0 TSI/TFSI): oil consumption (piston rings) on second-generation engines
- Dual-clutch gearbox: check smoothness in stop-and-go traffic
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.
Which one to choose
- Sorento III (UM) — if you care more about: fuel tank.
- Macan I (95B) — if you care more about: power, torque, wheelbase, 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 Macan I (95B)?
Sorento III (UM): up to 249 hp, Macan I (95B): up to 252 hp.
What is the vehicle tax in Kazakhstan?
For 2026, for a car under 10 years old: Sorento III (UM) — about 68 375 ₸, Macan I (95B) — about 16 475 ₸ (base engine). A 0.7 factor applies to cars aged 10–20 years and 0.5 to cars over 20.