If long-term reliability is a concern, then I would recommend sticking to the Toyota RAV4, Mazda CX-5, and Subaru Forester for the $25k small crossover/SUV category.
Kia has improved their vehicles' reliability significantly over the past decades and the legendary warranties are known for giving a peace of mind to their first owners. They've made improvements to be the #6 in terms of reliability, but they haven't been made enough improvement to be in the top 5 — which are Lexus, Toyota, Audi, Mazda, and Subaru. Why settle for the 6th best when there are better choices?
The Sorento is a mid-size SUV leading to higher fuel consumption. (The Sorento consumes 4.5gal/100mi (22 MPG) compared to the Forester consuming 3.7 gal/100mi (27 MPG))[http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/Find.do?action=sbs&id=34678&id=34655&id=35640&id=34716].
Toyota offers a 2-year, 25k miles free maintenance package through ToyotaCare. That in addition to the friendly sales manager at no-haggle dealership nearby sealed the deal for me in my last purchase, not to mention the fuel economy, reliability, low cost of ownership, 10k miles synthetic oil change maintenance schedule, practicality, and the $1000 fuel gift card promotion at the time. Not to mention that buyers consider (Toyota and Honda)[http://www.autotrader.com/car-shopping/buying-a-used-car-why-does-everyone-recommend-honda-and-toyota-244178] cars as their top choices when searching for a used car. Hence, increasing their resale value compared to the rivals.
That being said, the RAV4 isn't the best value for the money for $25k, that title actually goes to the Subaru Forester 2.5i Premium.