The Kia Sorento continues to be a smart choice for families looking for a practical three-row SUV without breaking the bank. While the 2026 model doesn’t introduce major changes, it builds on the solid foundation established by the 2024 refresh, making it an attractive option in the competitive midsize SUV market.
What’s New for 2026
The 2026 Sorento keeps things simple by carrying over the improvements from its 2024 update. This approach means buyers get a proven formula that includes refined styling, updated technology, and expanded powertrain options without any first-year hiccups that sometimes come with major redesigns.
Kia has focused on expanding hybrid availability across more trim levels, making fuel-efficient options more accessible to budget-conscious families. The electrified variants now extend beyond just the premium GT-Line, giving more buyers access to better fuel economy.
Engine Options That Make Sense
Standard and Turbocharged Gasoline Engines
The base 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine produces 191 horsepower and pairs with an eight-speed automatic transmission. While adequate for daily driving, most drivers will appreciate the step up to the turbocharged 2.5-liter engine, which delivers 281 horsepower and significantly better acceleration.
Hybrid Powertrains for Better Efficiency
The hybrid system combines a four-cylinder engine with electric motors to achieve an impressive 36 mpg in combined driving. For families wanting even better efficiency, the plug-in hybrid offers 74 MPGe with up to 30 miles of electric-only range, perfect for short commutes and errands around town.
Trim Levels and Features
| Trim Level | Key Features |
|---|---|
| LX | 8-inch touchscreen, cloth seating, basic safety features |
| S | 12.3-inch display, heated front seats, parking sensors, available AWD |
| EX | Faux leather, wireless charging, blind-spot monitoring |
| SX Prestige | Leather seating, panoramic sunroof, premium audio, 12.3-inch digital cluster |
| X-Pro | All-terrain tires, increased ground clearance, enhanced towing (4,500 lbs) |
Interior Space and Practicality
The Sorento strikes a balance between being manageable to drive and providing useful space. The first two rows offer comfortable seating for adults, while the third row works best for children or occasional adult passengers on shorter trips.
Smart Storage Solutions
Families will appreciate the numerous storage compartments throughout the cabin. The second-row seats slide and fold easily, making access to the third row straightforward. When cargo space is needed, the rear seats fold flat to create a substantial loading area.
Technology That Actually Helps
The 12.3-inch touchscreen comes standard on most trims and includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system responds quickly and offers intuitive menu layouts that don’t require a learning curve. Over-the-air updates keep the software current without dealership visits.
Safety Features That Protect Your Family
Standard Safety Equipment
Every Sorento includes Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane-Keeping Assist, and Adaptive Cruise Control. These systems work together to help prevent accidents and reduce driver fatigue on longer trips.
Advanced Safety Options
Higher trims add Highway Driving Assist 2 with lane-changing capability, a 360-degree camera system, and Remote Smart Parking Assist. The Rear Occupant Alert system uses ultrasonic sensors to help prevent leaving children or pets in the vehicle.
NHTSA awarded the Sorento a five-star overall safety rating, providing peace of mind for family transportation.
Real-World Driving Experience
The Sorento feels composed and stable on the highway, with the turbocharged engine providing confident merging and passing power. The steering is precise enough for city driving while remaining comfortable on long trips. Road noise is well-controlled, making conversations easy at highway speeds.
Off-Road Capability with X-Pro
The X-Pro trim transforms the Sorento into a more capable adventure vehicle. While it won’t tackle serious rock crawling, it handles dirt roads, camping trips, and light trail work with confidence. The increased ground clearance and all-terrain tires make a noticeable difference in challenging conditions.
Fuel Economy and Running Costs
The standard engine achieves approximately 23 mpg city and 31 mpg highway, which is competitive for the class. The turbocharged version drops to 20/29 mpg but provides much better performance. Hybrid models deliver significantly better efficiency, with the conventional hybrid reaching 36 mpg combined.
Kia’s 10-year/100,000-mile warranty provides long-term value and peace of mind that many competitors can’t match.
Pricing and Value
Starting prices begin around $33,000 for the base LX trim, making the Sorento one of the more affordable three-row SUVs available. The sweet spot appears to be the S trim, which adds key features like the larger touchscreen and heated seats while remaining reasonably priced.
Quick FAQs
Q: Is the third row suitable for adults?
A: The third row works for children and shorter adults on brief trips, but taller passengers will find it cramped for longer journeys.
Q: How does the Sorento compare to the larger Telluride?
A: The Sorento is more affordable and easier to park, while the Telluride offers more interior space and cargo capacity.
Q: Which engine should I choose?
A: The turbocharged engine provides noticeably better performance and is worth the upgrade if your budget allows.
