IT’S A BEST BUY BECAUSE:
The Sorento boasts a broad model lineup with a choice of four powertrains, a generous list of available comfort and convenience features, and a thoughtfully designed interior, all within tidier, easier-to-park dimensions than the typical three-row midsize SUV.
BUT…
Those smaller dimensions mean third-row seat is cramped, and maximum cargo room isn’t as generous as the Sorento’s three-row class rivals.
WORTH NOTING:
Most non-hybrid Sorento models are available in “X-Line” guise, with off-road-focused touches such as a raised ride height, matte exterior trim, and a bridge-type roof-rack system.
WHAT IS IT?
The Sorento is the smaller of Kia’s 3-row midsize crossover SUVs, slotting in size and price beneath the Telluride. Sorento LX and S models get a 191-horsepower 2.5-liter 4-cylinder that’s paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, while EX, SX, and the SX Prestige models step up to a 281-hp turbocharged 2.5 four with an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic. Sorento Hybrids come as S and EX models with front- or all-wheel drive with a 227-hp turbocharged 1.6-liter 4-cylinder hybrid powertrain. The new-for-2022 Sorento Plug-in-Hybrid is powered by a 261-hp version of the turbo 1.6 engine, with a larger battery pack and a more powerful electric motor. Sorentos are available with a full complement of safety features, including Rear Occupant Alert (which warns of potentially forgotten passengers or items in the back seat) and Safe Exit Assist (which can detect an object approaching from the rear and keep the child safety locks activated until the object passes). Other available features include a digital gauge cluster, 360-degree surround-view monitor, heated steering wheel, heated/ventilated front seats, and a height-adjustable hands-free power liftgate.
WHAT’S NEW?
After its redesign for 2021, the Sorento gets the above-mentioned plug-in-hybrid version for ‘22. The Sorento Hybrid is newly available with AWD; it was previously offered only with front-wheel drive. Availability of the X-Line version has been expanded to more trim levels.
FUEL ECONOMY
The base 2.5-liter engine is rated at 24 mpg city/29 mpg highway with front-wheel drive and 23/25 with all-wheel drive. The turbo 2.5 engine is rated at 22/29 with FWD and 22/27 with AWD. Sorento Hybrids are rated at 39 city/35 highway, and the Plug-in Hybrid is rated at 34 mpg in combined city/highway driving and 79 MPGe, with a targeted pure-electric driving range of 32 miles. During Consumer Guide® evaluation, an SX Prestige X Line averaged 22.7 mpg in a test that consisted of 75 percent city driving. All Sorentos use regular-grade gas.
VALUE IN CLASS
The Kia Sorento’s redesign for 2021 brought it a crisp new look and a host of desirable new features. The broad model range means it’s easy to tailor a Sorento to your wants and needs, and the exterior dimensions should be just right for families who need third-row versatility but don’t want to step up to the larger Kia Telluride.
| BASE PRICE RANGE | $29,490 – $43,090 |
| BODY STYLES | 4-Door Wagon |
| AVAILABLE ENGINES | 191-HP, 2.5-Liter 4-Cyl.; 281-HP, Turbocharged 2.5-liter 4-Cyl.; 227-HP, Turbocharged 1.6-liter 4-Cyl./Electric; 261-HP, Turbocharged 1.6-liter 4-Cyl./Electric |
| DRIVE WHEELS | Front or All-Wheel Drive |
| BUILT IN | South Korea |
| EPA FUEL-ECONOMY RANGE | 22-39 MPG |
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