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Cars in Taylor Swift Music Videos2026 Kia Sorento Review
The 2026 Kia Sorento blends family-friendly comfort with hybrid efficiency and tech-savvy features, making it a smart pick for midsize SUV shoppers.
Overview
The 2026 Kia Sorento offers hybrid efficiency, spacious seating for seven, and advanced tech. With multiple trims and strong safety ratings, it’s a versatile midsize SUV for families and commuters alike.
Carsforsale.com Score
9/10
Powertrain
Score
8.75/10
Interior
Score
8.75/10
Technology
Score
9.25/10
Value
Score
9/10
2026 Kia Sorento Powertrain 8.75/10
The 2026 Kia Sorento stands out for its wide range of powertrain choices, giving drivers plenty of flexibility. The standard gas-powered engine is a 2.5-liter inline-4 that delivers 191 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. This setup strikes a practical balance between fuel economy and everyday performance, delivering an estimated 23 mpg in city driving and 31 mpg on the highway when equipped with front-wheel drive. For those seeking more power, there’s also a 2.5-liter turbocharged engine that produces 281 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque, providing stronger acceleration.
For improved efficiency, the Sorento Hybrid combines a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine with an electric motor. This hybrid system produces a total of 227 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, routed through a 6-speed automatic transmission. Fuel economy is a strong point here, with ratings of up to 37 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway.
The plug-in hybrid variant builds on the same 1.6-liter turbo engine but integrates a more robust hybrid system. Output rises to 261 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque, and it offers an estimated 31 miles of electric-only range. Like the hybrid, it uses a six-speed automatic transmission.
Across its range of powertrains, the Sorento maintains a composed and comfortable ride. The available all-wheel-drive system provides extra confidence in poor weather and on slippery surfaces. For buyers looking for a bit more capability, the X-Line trims add mild off-road enhancements, making the Sorento suitable for occasional ventures off pavement. When properly equipped with the turbocharged engine, towing capacity reaches up to 3,500 pounds, adding useful versatility for hauling small trailers or gear.
2026 Kia Sorento Interior 9/10
The 2026 Kia Sorento’s cabin is spacious and upscale and emphasizes comfort and everyday practicality. Its three-row configuration seats six or seven passengers, depending on the setup. Second row passengers benefit from 41.7 inches of legroom, giving them plenty of space to stretch out during extended drives. However, the third row offers just 29.6 inches of legroom, making it cramped for adults and best suited for children. Interior finishes vary by trim level, starting with cloth and moving up to synthetic leather, with quilted Nappa leather available on the highest trims for a premium feel. Select models include heated and ventilated front seats, while top trims also add heated outboard seats in the second row for extra comfort.
Behind the third row, the 2026 Kia Sorento provides 12.6 cubic feet of cargo space. Folding the rear seats down expands that area to 75.5 cubic feet, offering plenty of room for larger items or gear and making the Sorento a practical choice for families and active lifestyles.
2026 Kia Sorento Technology 9.25/10
The 2026 Kia Sorento is well-equipped in the tech department, featuring a 12.3-inch touchscreen as the centerpiece of its infotainment system. Every trim includes Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for seamless smartphone integration. Higher trims add convenience with two USB charging ports for each row of seats, while audio quality ranges from a standard six-speaker setup on lower trims to an impressive 12-speaker Bose premium system on the top models.
The 2026 Kia Sorento includes a solid set of driver-assistance features. Standard equipment covers blind-spot warning, forward collision avoidance with pedestrian and cyclist detection, and lane-keeping and lane-following assist. Higher trims add a 360-degree camera system and parking sensors around the vehicle, making tight spots easier to handle. SiriusXM and Kia Connect subscriptions are also available.
2026 Kia Sorento Value 9/10
The 2026 Kia Sorento offers a broad range of trims and pricing, starting with the LX at $32,190. This entry-level model includes LED headlights, an 8-inch touchscreen, and a solid set of driver-assistance features.
The EX Hybrid offers a good mix of features and efficiency, starting at $38,890. It adds a larger display screen, synthetic leather, and better fuel economy thanks to its hybrid setup.
The X-Line SX Prestige AWD Plug-in Hybrid sits at the top of the lineup at $53,490. This vehicle brings premium upgrades such as genuine leather, a panoramic sunroof, and Kia’s most advanced technology package.
Against competitors like the Toyota Highlander and Honda Pilot, the Sorento stands out for its combination of hybrid options, technology features, and warranty coverage at a competitive price.
Trims & Pricing
2026 Kia Sorento Final Score 9/10
The 2026 Kia Sorento is a well-rounded midsize SUV that delivers comfort, efficiency, and tech in equal measure. Whether you’re hauling kids or commuting solo, it’s built to handle the journey with confidence. Compared to rivals like the Highlander and Pilot, the Sorento shines with its hybrid options and value-packed trims. It’s a top pick for families who want a little more from their SUV.
