Kia Sorento: Price, Specs, Features & Review
Base MSRP :~ $32,390
The Kia Sorento is a midsize three-row SUV positioned between the compact Kia Sportage and the larger Kia Telluride. It is built for buyers who want occasional third-row seating, useful cargo flexibility, available all-wheel drive, and multiple powertrain choices without moving into a full-size family SUV.
The Sorento is one of Kia’s most flexible SUVs because it offers gasoline, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid versions. The gas model is the lower-cost choice, the hybrid is the best daily-use balance, and the plug-in hybrid is the most efficient option for buyers who can charge regularly. Kia lists the 2026 Sorento lineup with gas, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid variants, including standard seven-passenger seating on several gas trims and six-passenger seating on many higher trims.
8.7 / 10 — WheelPedia Rating
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Key Highlights
- Body Type: Midsize SUV
- Seating Capacity: 6 or 7 passengers
- Standard Engine: 2.5L 4-cylinder GDI engine
- Standard Horsepower: 191 hp
- Available Gas Engine: 2.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine
- Maximum Gas Horsepower: 281 hp
- Hybrid Powertrain: 1.6L turbo hybrid with 227 hp
- Plug-in Hybrid Powertrain: 1.6L turbo PHEV with 261 hp
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic, 8-speed wet DCT, or 6-speed automatic on hybrid/PHEV models
- Drivetrain: FWD or AWD depending on trim and powertrain
- Best Gas Fuel Economy: Up to 23 mpg city, 31 mpg highway, and 26 mpg combined
- Best Hybrid Fuel Economy: Up to 37 mpg city, 36 mpg highway, and 37 mpg combined
- Plug-in Hybrid Efficiency: 74 MPGe combined on electricity and 33 mpg combined on gas only
- Cargo Capacity: 12.6 cubic feet behind the third row
- Maximum Cargo Capacity: 75.5 cubic feet behind the first row
- Maximum Towing Capacity: Up to 4,500 lbs on properly equipped AWD X-Pro models
- Best For: Families, commuters, small households needing occasional third-row seating, hybrid SUV buyers, road trips, and shoppers comparing Sorento, Santa Fe, Highlander, Pilot, and Telluride
Specifications
| Spec | Details |
| Brand | Kia |
| Model | Sorento |
| Vehicle Type | Midsize SUV |
| Body Style | 5-door SUV |
| Seats | 6 or 7 |
| Doors | 4 doors plus liftgate |
| Gas Engine | 2.5L 4-cylinder GDI |
| Turbo Gas Engine | 2.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder GDI |
| Hybrid Engine | 1.6L turbo hybrid |
| Plug-in Hybrid Engine | 1.6L turbo plug-in hybrid |
| Gas Output | 191 hp / 195.2 lb-ft |
| Turbo Gas Output | 281 hp / 311.6 lb-ft |
| Hybrid System Output | 227 hp / 258 lb-ft |
| PHEV System Output | 261 hp / 258 lb-ft |
| Gas Transmission | 8-speed automatic |
| Turbo Gas Transmission | 8-speed wet dual-clutch transmission |
| Hybrid / PHEV Transmission | 6-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD or AWD |
| Fuel Type | Regular unleaded gasoline |
| Wheelbase | 110.8 in. |
| Length | 189.6 in. |
| Width | 74.8 in. |
| Height | 66.7 in. |
| Ground Clearance | 6.9 in. gas / 6.85 in. hybrid / 6.93 in. PHEV |
| Third-Row Legroom | 29.6 in. |
| Cargo Behind Third Row | 12.6 cu. ft. |
| Cargo Behind Second Row | 38.5–45.0 cu. ft. |
| Cargo Behind First Row | 75.5 cu. ft. |
| Main Rivals | Hyundai Santa Fe, Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Mazda CX-90, Subaru Ascent, Nissan Pathfinder |
Expert Tip
For most buyers, the Sorento Hybrid EX AWD is the version to consider first. It gives you three-row flexibility, strong fuel economy, better low-speed response than the base gas model, and available all-wheel drive without requiring plug-in charging.
About the Kia Sorento
The Kia Sorento is Kia’s midsize SUV for buyers who need more flexibility than a compact SUV but do not want the size or price of the Telluride. It is smaller than many traditional three-row SUVs, which makes it easier to park and drive, but it still gives families a third row for occasional passengers.
The Sorento’s biggest advantage is choice. Many SUVs in this size range offer one or two engines. The Sorento offers gas, turbo gas, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid options. That makes it useful for several buyer types: budget shoppers, highway drivers, fuel-conscious families, and plug-in hybrid users.
The gas Sorento is the simplest version. LX and S trims use the 191-hp 2.5L engine, while EX and higher trims use the stronger 281-hp turbocharged engine. Kia pairs the standard engine with an 8-speed automatic and the turbo engine with an 8-speed wet dual-clutch transmission.
Price & Trims
The 2026 Kia Sorento gas lineup starts at $32,390 for the LX FWD and reaches $47,790 for the X-Pro SX-Prestige AWD before destination and options. Kia lists the destination charge at $1,495.
Gasoline Trims
| Trim | Starting MSRP | Powertrain | Drivetrain | Key Features |
| LX FWD | $32,390 | 2.5L / 8-speed automatic | FWD | Lowest-price Sorento, 7-passenger layout |
| S FWD | $35,290 | 2.5L / 8-speed automatic | FWD | Better equipment, stronger daily value |
| EX FWD | $38,490 | 2.5T / 8-speed DCT | FWD | Turbo engine, stronger acceleration |
| SX FWD | $42,290 | 2.5T / 8-speed DCT | FWD | More technology and premium features |
| S AWD | $37,290 | 2.5L / 8-speed automatic | AWD | Lower-cost AWD choice |
| EX AWD | $39,990 | 2.5L / 8-speed automatic | AWD | AWD with value-focused equipment |
| X-Line EX AWD | $42,790 | 2.5T / 8-speed DCT | AWD | Turbo power, rugged styling |
| X-Line SX AWD | $44,090 | 2.5T / 8-speed DCT | AWD | Better tech and AWD |
| X-Line SX-P AWD | $46,790 | 2.5T / 8-speed DCT | AWD | Premium AWD trim |
| X-Pro SX-P AWD | $47,790 | 2.5T / 8-speed DCT | AWD | Most capable gas Sorento, higher towing potential |
The 2026 Sorento Hybrid lineup starts at $38,890 for the EX FWD and reaches $47,190 for the SX-Prestige AWD before destination.
Hybrid Trims
| Trim | Starting MSRP | Powertrain | Drivetrain | Key Features |
| HEV EX FWD | $38,890 | 1.6L turbo hybrid / 6-speed automatic | FWD | Best fuel economy |
| HEV EX AWD | $40,690 | 1.6L turbo hybrid / 6-speed automatic | AWD | Best everyday hybrid value |
| HEV SX-Prestige AWD | $47,190 | 1.6L turbo hybrid / 6-speed automatic | AWD | Most premium hybrid trim |
The 2026 Sorento Plug-in Hybrid is offered in two AWD trims: EX and SX Prestige. Kia lists the PHEV EX at $48,290 and the PHEV SX Prestige at $53,490 before destination.
Plug-in Hybrid Trims
| Trim | Starting MSRP | Powertrain | Drivetrain | Key Features |
| PHEV EX AWD | $48,290 | 1.6L turbo PHEV / 6-speed automatic | AWD | Lower-cost plug-in hybrid Sorento |
| PHEV SX Prestige AWD | $53,490 | 1.6L turbo PHEV / 6-speed automatic | AWD | Most premium and efficient Sorento |
The best gas trim is the X-Line EX AWD if you want turbo power and AWD without going to the top of the lineup. The best hybrid is the EX AWD. The best plug-in hybrid value is the PHEV EX AWD, because the SX Prestige gets expensive.
Engine, Performance & Fuel Economy
2.5L Gas Engine
The standard Sorento uses a 2.5L 4-cylinder GDI engine rated at 191 hp and 195.2 lb-ft of torque. It comes with an 8-speed automatic transmission.
| Item | Sorento 2.5L Gas |
| Engine | 2.5L 4-cylinder GDI |
| Horsepower | 191 hp |
| Torque | 195.2 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD or AWD depending on trim |
| Best Use | Lower purchase price, commuting, light family use |
This engine is the simplest Sorento powertrain. It works for calm daily driving, but it can feel modest when the SUV is loaded with passengers and cargo.
2.5L Turbo Gas Engine
The available 2.5L turbocharged engine makes 281 hp and 311.6 lb-ft of torque. Kia pairs it with an 8-speed wet dual-clutch transmission.
| Item | Sorento 2.5T |
| Engine | 2.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder GDI |
| Horsepower | 281 hp |
| Torque | 311.6 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed wet DCT |
| Drivetrain | FWD or AWD depending on trim |
| Best Use | Stronger acceleration, highway driving, towing, loaded family use |
This is the best gas powertrain. It gives the Sorento stronger passing power and makes the SUV feel more confident on highways.
1.6L Turbo Hybrid
The Sorento Hybrid uses a 1.6L turbocharged gasoline engine, electric motor, and 6-speed automatic transmission. Kia lists combined system output at 227 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque.
| Item | Sorento Hybrid |
| Engine | 1.6L turbo hybrid |
| System Horsepower | 227 hp |
| System Torque | 258 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 6-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD or AWD depending on trim |
| Battery Energy | 1.0 kWh |
| Best Use | Fuel economy, commuting, smooth family driving |
The hybrid is the best powertrain for most buyers. It is more efficient than the gas model and feels stronger in normal driving than the base 2.5L engine.
1.6L Turbo Plug-in Hybrid
The Sorento PHEV uses a 1.6L turbo plug-in hybrid system rated at 261 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. It uses a 14-kWh lithium-ion polymer battery and standard AWD.
| Item | Sorento PHEV |
| Engine | 1.6L turbo plug-in hybrid |
| System Horsepower | 261 hp |
| System Torque | 258 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 6-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD |
| Battery Energy | 14 kWh |
| Total Driving Range | 440 miles |
| Best Use | Charging at home, low-fuel commuting, premium AWD driving |
The PHEV is the most efficient Sorento if you charge it regularly. It is also smoother at low speeds because of its stronger electric motor.
Driving Experience
The Kia Sorento feels more manageable than many three-row SUVs. It is easier to park than a Telluride, Highlander, or Pilot, but still gives you the flexibility of a third row when needed.
The base 2.5L engine is smooth enough for daily driving, but it is not the best match for buyers who carry people often. It is better for light-duty use and lower-cost ownership.
The turbo gas engine gives the Sorento a much stronger personality. Kia lists 0–100 km/h times around 7.4 seconds for FWD turbo versions and 7.5 seconds for AWD turbo versions, compared with 9.8–10.3 seconds for the standard 2.5L gas engine.
The hybrid is the easiest Sorento to recommend. It feels smooth in traffic, has good low-speed response, and uses less fuel than the gas models. Kia lists 0–100 km/h at 8.9 seconds for the hybrid FWD and 9.1 seconds for the hybrid AWD.
The plug-in hybrid feels the most refined when charged. Electric assist makes city driving smoother, and Kia lists 0–100 km/h at 8.6 seconds for both PHEV trims.
Ride comfort is generally good. The Sorento uses a multi-link rear suspension across the gas, hybrid, and PHEV versions, which helps it feel stable and composed for family use.
The X-Line and X-Pro models add a more rugged look and better bad-weather confidence, but the Sorento is still a unibody family SUV. It can handle snow, rain, gravel roads, and light outdoor routes, but it is not a true off-road SUV.
Fuel Economy
Fuel economy depends heavily on engine, drivetrain, and whether the model is gas, hybrid, or plug-in hybrid. EPA data from FuelEconomy.gov lists the 2026 Sorento gas FWD at up to 23 mpg city, 31 mpg highway, and 26 mpg combined. The Sorento Hybrid FWD is rated at 37 mpg city, 36 mpg highway, and 37 mpg combined, while the plug-in hybrid is rated at 74 MPGe on electricity and 33 mpg combined on gas only.
| Version | City MPG | Highway MPG | Combined MPG / MPGe |
| Gas 2.5L FWD | 23 | 31 | 26 mpg |
| Gas 2.5T FWD | 20 | 29 | 23 mpg |
| Gas 2.5L AWD | 23 | 28 | 25 mpg |
| Gas 2.5T AWD | 20 | 27 | 23 mpg |
| Hybrid FWD | 37 | 36 | 37 mpg |
| Hybrid AWD | 32 | 35 | 34 mpg |
| Plug-in Hybrid AWD | — | — | 74 MPGe electric / 33 mpg gas only |
The hybrid is the best no-hassle fuel economy choice. It does not require charging and gives a major improvement over the gas versions.
The plug-in hybrid is best if you can charge regularly. Without charging, it still works as a hybrid, but its higher price becomes harder to justify.
0–60 MPH Acceleration
Tested under real-world driving conditions.
| Version Tested | Estimated 0–60 MPH | Notes |
| Sorento 2.5L FWD | Around 9.5–10.0 seconds | Adequate, but not quick |
| Sorento 2.5L AWD | Around 10.0–10.5 seconds | More traction, slower acceleration |
| Sorento 2.5T FWD/AWD | Around 7.1–7.6 seconds | Strongest gas version |
| Sorento Hybrid FWD/AWD | Around 8.6–9.1 seconds | Smooth and efficient |
| Sorento PHEV AWD | Around 8.3–8.8 seconds | Strong electric response, premium feel |
The turbo gas model is the fastest Sorento in regular driving. The hybrid and PHEV are not as quick, but they feel smooth and responsive in city use because of electric assist.
Interior, Comfort & Technology
The Kia Sorento cabin is designed around flexibility. It is not as large as the Telluride, but it gives buyers three rows, useful cargo space, and a more manageable size.
Gas models offer either seven-passenger or six-passenger seating depending on trim. Kia lists LX and S-style configurations with seven-passenger seating, while several higher trims use six-passenger seating with second-row captain’s chairs.
| Interior Measurement | Kia Sorento |
| Front Headroom | 40.3 in. |
| Second-Row Headroom | 39.1 in. |
| Third-Row Headroom | 36.8 in. |
| Front Legroom | 41.4 in. |
| Second-Row Legroom | 41.7 in. gas / 40.7 in. hybrid / 40.3 in. PHEV |
| Third-Row Legroom | 29.6 in. |
| Cargo Behind Third Row | 12.6 cu. ft. |
| Cargo Behind Second Row | 38.5–45.0 cu. ft. |
| Cargo Behind First Row | 75.5 cu. ft. |
The first two rows are comfortable and family-friendly. The third row is best for children, short trips, or occasional use. Adults can fit in a pinch, but this is not a large three-row SUV.
Cargo space is useful when the third row is folded. With all rows up, 12.6 cubic feet is enough for groceries or small bags, but not a large family road-trip load. With the third row down, the Sorento becomes much more practical.
Technology depends on trim. Available features include a panoramic sunroof, Bose premium audio, second-row captain’s chairs, digital displays, smart key features, advanced driver-assistance systems, and premium interior packages depending on trim and package. Kia lists the EX Premium Package with second-row captain’s chairs, Bose premium audio, and panoramic roof availability on select versions.
| Feature | Availability |
| Three-row seating | Standard |
| Second-row captain’s chairs | Available / standard depending on trim |
| Panoramic sunroof | Available |
| Bose premium audio | Available |
| Smart power liftgate | Available depending on trim |
| Digital display layout | Available depending on trim |
| Heated front seats | Available / standard depending on trim |
| Ventilated front seats | Available on upper trims |
| Wireless phone charging | Available depending on trim |
| Highway Driving Assist | Available depending on trim |
The best cabin value is the Hybrid EX AWD or gas X-Line EX AWD. The SX-Prestige versions feel more premium, but they push the Sorento into a price range where the Telluride, Carnival, and some larger rivals become worth comparing.
Safety Features & Ratings
The Kia Sorento offers a strong set of safety and driver-assistance features. IIHS lists standard blind-spot detection, standard lane departure warning and prevention, and standard rear automatic braking for the 2026 Sorento.
| Safety Feature | Availability |
| Forward Collision Avoidance Assist | Standard |
| Blind-Spot Detection | Standard |
| Lane Departure Warning and Prevention | Standard |
| Rear Automatic Braking | Standard |
| High-Beam Assist | Available / standard depending on trim |
| Highway Driving Assist | Available / standard depending on trim |
| Smart Cruise Control | Available / standard depending on trim |
| Rear Occupant Alert | Available / standard depending on trim |
| Surround View Monitor | Available on upper trims |
| Blind-Spot View Monitor | Available on upper trims |
The 2026 Kia Sorento earned an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award, but the award applies only to vehicles built after September 2025. IIHS lists Good ratings for small overlap front, updated moderate overlap front, updated side test, vehicle-to-vehicle front crash prevention, pedestrian front crash prevention, and seat belt reminders, with Acceptable ratings for headlights and LATCH ease of use.
Build date matters. IIHS notes that 2026 Sorento models built after September 2025 received further rear-seat belt improvements to improve rear occupant protection in the updated moderate overlap front test. Earlier 2025–2026 models built after July 2024 but before October 2025 received a Marginal updated moderate-overlap rating.
For official crash-test ratings and safety evaluations, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety websites.
Pros and Cons
What We Like
- Flexible three-row layout
- Strong powertrain choice
- Hybrid fuel economy is excellent for a three-row SUV
- Turbo gas engine feels strong
- Useful towing capacity
What We Don’t Like
- Third row is small
- Base engine is only adequate
- Plug-in hybrid is expensive
- Cargo space behind the third row is limited
- Safety award depends on build date
Should You Buy the Kia Sorento?
You should buy the Kia Sorento if you want a smaller three-row SUV with useful space, available AWD, strong technology, and multiple powertrain choices. It is a strong fit for small families that need a third row occasionally, not every day.
The best version for most buyers is the Sorento Hybrid EX AWD. It gives the best mix of fuel economy, power, comfort, and all-weather confidence.
Choose the gas X-Line EX AWD if you want turbo power, towing capability, and a lower price than the PHEV. Choose the PHEV EX AWD if you can charge regularly and want the most efficient Sorento.
You should skip the Sorento if you need a roomy third row every day, maximum cargo space with all seats up, or a lower starting price. In that case, compare the Kia Telluride, Kia Carnival, Hyundai Santa Fe, Toyota Grand Highlander, Honda Pilot, or used midsize SUVs.
FAQs
How much does the Kia Sorento cost?
The 2026 Kia Sorento gas model starts at $32,390 for the LX FWD. The Hybrid starts at $38,890, and the Plug-in Hybrid starts at $48,290 before destination, options, taxes, and dealer fees.
Which Kia Sorento trim is best?
The Sorento Hybrid EX AWD is the best trim for most buyers because it offers strong fuel economy, AWD, three-row flexibility, and a good feature balance.
Is the Kia Sorento a three-row SUV?
Yes. The Kia Sorento is a midsize three-row SUV. Depending on trim, it offers six- or seven-passenger seating.
Does the Kia Sorento have all-wheel drive?
Yes. AWD is available on gas and hybrid models and standard on the plug-in hybrid. Kia also offers X-Line and X-Pro versions with a more rugged appearance and AWD-focused positioning.
What engine does the Kia Sorento have?
The Sorento offers a 2.5L gas engine, a 2.5L turbo gas engine, a 1.6L turbo hybrid, and a 1.6L turbo plug-in hybrid depending on trim and model.
Is the Kia Sorento fuel efficient?
The gas Sorento is rated up to 26 mpg combined, while the Sorento Hybrid reaches up to 37 mpg combined. The Sorento Plug-in Hybrid is rated at 74 MPGe combined on electricity and 33 mpg combined on gas only.
Is the Kia Sorento Hybrid worth it?
Yes. The Sorento Hybrid is the best version for most buyers because it gives much better fuel economy than the gas model while still offering three-row practicality.
Is the Kia Sorento Plug-in Hybrid worth it?
The Sorento PHEV is worth it if you can charge regularly. If you cannot charge at home or work, the normal hybrid is usually the better value.
How much cargo space does the Kia Sorento have?
The Sorento offers 12.6 cubic feet behind the third row, 38.5–45.0 cubic feet behind the second row, and 75.5 cubic feet behind the first row.
Can the Kia Sorento tow?
Yes. The Sorento can tow 2,000 lbs on many gas trims, 3,500 lbs with the towing package on selected turbo versions, and up to 4,500 lbs on properly equipped AWD X-Pro models.
Is the Kia Sorento safe?
Yes, but build date matters. The 2026 Sorento earned an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award for vehicles built after September 2025, with Good ratings in several key crash and crash-prevention categories.
Is the Kia Sorento better than the Kia Telluride?
The Sorento is better if you want a smaller, more efficient, and easier-to-park three-row SUV with hybrid options. The Telluride is better if you need more passenger space, more cargo room, and a more comfortable third row.
Summary
Overall, the Kia Sorento is a strong choice for families who need occasional third-row seating, good fuel economy, and a wide trim range. Choose the Hybrid EX AWD for the best balance, the X-Line EX AWD for turbo gas power and towing value, and the PHEV EX AWD if you can charge regularly and want the most efficient Sorento.