1 / 1Illustrative AI renders — not manufacturer photographs.
Kia Sorento
Three-row practicality without the bulky footprint
Kia Sorento review
The Kia Sorento threads a needle few rivals attempt: a genuine three-row SUV that stays close in size to a two-row crossover. That makes it easy to park and pleasant to drive, while still adding occasional rear seating and strong cargo space. Buyers also get an unusually wide powertrain menu, from a punchy turbo gas engine to efficient hybrid and plug-in hybrid options, plus available all-wheel drive and a generous warranty.
On the road, the Sorento feels more like a tall wagon than a lumbering family hauler, and that is meant as a compliment. The base 2.5-liter four is adequate, but the turbocharged version is the one worth seeking out, delivering confident passing power through a quick-shifting dual-clutch transmission. The hybrid models trade some immediacy for real-world efficiency, and the plug-in hybrid adds roughly 30 miles of electric range for short commutes. Ride quality is composed, and steering is accurate without pretending to be sporty.
Inside, Kia has done strong work. Higher trims feel close to luxury-adjacent, with crisp dual screens, quality materials, and a logical layout that mixes touch controls with welcome physical knobs. The first two rows are roomy and comfortable, and the cabin stays quiet at highway speeds. The catch is the third row: it exists, and it works for kids or short trips, but adults will find it tight on legroom and best reserved for emergencies.
Families will appreciate the practical touches. Cargo space behind the second row is competitive, the available captain's chairs ease access, and storage cubbies are plentiful. Standard driver-assistance features are comprehensive, and the infotainment system is responsive with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on most trims. Kia's 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty remains a meaningful reassurance.
There are trade-offs. The dual-clutch transmission can hesitate in stop-and-go traffic, fully loaded prices climb into territory shared by larger three-row rivals, and towing capacity trails truck-based competitors. But for buyers who want most of a midsize SUV's flexibility in a tidier, more efficient package, the Sorento is one of the smartest picks in the class.
Pros & cons
What we like
- Right-sized, easy-to-drive footprint
- Wide range of efficient powertrains
- Upscale, well-built cabin
- Generous standard safety tech
- Long warranty coverage
What could be better
- Third row tight for adults
- Dual-clutch lag in traffic
- Modest towing capacity
- Top trims get pricey
Kia Sorento price & variants
| Variant | Fuel / Transmission | Starting MSRP |
|---|---|---|
| LX Best value | GasolineAutomatic | $31,990 |
| S Hybrid | HybridAutomatic | $36,490 |
| EX Turbo | GasolineAutomatic | $39,990 |
| PHEV EX | Plug-in HybridAutomatic | $46,490 |
| SX Prestige X-Pro | GasolineAutomatic | $50,990 |
Key specifications
Model Overview
Engine & Transmission
Dimensions & Capacity
Fuel & Performance
Comfort & Convenience
Safety
Kia Sorento colours
Snow White PearlExpert rating breakdown
Owner reviews
Hybrid makes the math work
I average around 35 MPG on my mixed commute, which is genuinely impressive for a vehicle this practical. The cabin feels far nicer than the price suggests. My only gripe is the third row, which my teenagers complain about on longer trips.
Great size for city life
It fits in our tight garage and parking spots that swallow bigger SUVs whole. Plenty of room for two kids, a dog, and a week of groceries. The transmission can feel jerky at low speeds, but you get used to it.
Turbo trim is the sweet spot
The 2.5 turbo has more than enough power for highway merging and the tech is easy to live with. Loaded up it wasn't cheap, but the warranty gives me peace of mind. Wish it could tow a bit more for my small trailer.
Alternatives to the Kia Sorento
Hyundai Palisade
4.4$37,000 – $54,000Starting MSRP
Rivian R2
4.3$45,000 – $68,000Starting MSRP
Audi Q5
4.2$45,000 – $58,000Starting MSRP
BMW X3
4.4$50,000 – $65,000Starting MSRP
Kia Sorento — frequently asked questions
Is the Kia Sorento a true three-row SUV?
Yes, but it is a compact three-row. The third row works well for children and short trips, while adults will find legroom tight compared with larger rivals like the Honda Pilot.
Which Sorento powertrain should I choose?
For efficiency, pick the hybrid. For everyday punch, the 2.5-liter turbo gas engine is the best all-rounder. The plug-in hybrid suits buyers with short commutes and home charging.
How fuel-efficient is the Sorento?
The gas models return roughly 24 MPG combined, while the standard hybrid reaches about 36 MPG combined. The plug-in hybrid adds around 30 miles of electric-only driving.
Can the Sorento tow?
Yes. Properly equipped turbo models can tow up to around 3,500 pounds, which handles small trailers and watercraft but trails truck-based SUVs.
Does the Sorento come with all-wheel drive?
All-wheel drive is available on most trims and standard on rugged X-Pro versions. Front-wheel drive is standard on lower trims to keep the price down.
How good is the Sorento's warranty?
Kia offers a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile limited warranty, among the strongest coverage in the segment.
Image is an AI-generated illustration. Specifications and prices are indicative and may vary by variant and city — please confirm with an authorized dealer. Last updated 2026-06-25.