The Kia Sorento may not be as spacious inside as the bigger Telluride, but the midsize SUV makes up for it with more powertrains and options to satisfy customers. The Sorento is a three-row, midsize SUV that appeals to those who want something average in terms of size. It offers many practical standard and optional features.
Versatility and Comfort: the Kia Sorento Raises the Bar
If you’ve been shopping for a crossover for your family, you know what a challenge it is to find one that offers a decent suite of creature comforts and safety technology at a reasonable price point. Kia knocked it out of the park with the versatile Sorento: a crossover SUV with plenty of room for growing families or empty-nesters with active lifestyles. Let’s explore this outstanding Kia SUV.
Long List of Trims and Options
The Kia Sorento can’t be said to be low on choices. It offers several trims, with the base LX trim starting at around $34,000. The range-topping SX Prestige PHEV starts at $54,465, but between those two are ten other trims, all below $50,000 and a few below $40,000. The most popular trim tends to be the EX Hybrid, which starts at just over $40,000.
The EX Hybrid strikes a nice balance between affordability and value. It costs more than the base model, but it uses a standard turbocharged 1.6-liter hybrid system that is more powerful than the base non-hybrid engine. It also adds some pleasant amenities like faux-leather upholstery, active safety features, remote start, and heated front seats.
Responsive Powertrain Choices
The list of choices for the Kia Sorento doesn’t stop at the different trim levels. The Sorento also offers several engine options and can be had with either FWD or AWD. The base engine is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder that makes 191 horsepower. A turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder is also available and it makes 281 horsepower. Both engines come with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
The hybrid model comes with a six-speed automatic transmission and uses a turbo 1.6-liter four-cylinder. Paired with an electric motor, this powertrain generates 227 horsepower. If you get the AWD Sorento with the plug-in hybrid powertrain, you’ll get the same engine, but the electric motor has more power, which leads to an output of 261 horsepower.
Versatile Towing
The Kia Sorento won’t necessarily be the first choice of buyers who want towing power, but it’s not exactly a slouch either. The X-Pro trim offers the highest towing capacity with 4,000 pounds. The X-Pro only comes with a turbocharged 2.5-liter engine and features a center-locking differential, all-terrain tires, and 17-inch wheels. This towing capacity is enough for a few jet skis, dirt bikes, or a small utility trailer.
Attractive Interior Layout
One thing about the Kia Sorento is that it punches well above its price range in interior quality and layout. The cabin features nice materials, good build quality, and is laid out attractively. Two upright air vents border the dash but is otherwise simply laid out for function over form. Ambient lighting is nicely incorporated throughout the cabin and you’ll notice stitched detailing on the door panels and seat inserts for an upscale feel. Many cubbies and cupholders contribute to the Sorento’s functional design.
Practical and Refined, the Kia Sorento is Worth a Test Drive
Ultimately, the Kia Sorento is a practical and comfortable SUV with plenty of power and an upscale interior. With an affordable price range, the Sorento is a great choice for families sticking to a budget.
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