2026 Kia Sorento

Overview

There are many vehicles that fall under the wide umbrella of "midsize three-row SUVs," and the Kia Sorento is one of the few that's even smaller. But even though it's more compact than other three-rows, it's one of the most affordable and well-optioned crossovers around. The Sorento offers seating for six or seven passengers — depending on if you opt for a second-row bench or captain's chairs — and if you don't think you'll be using the third row often (or won't need to fit adults back there), it might be the right size for you. Its latest update in 2024 didn't just upgrade the Sorento's rugged good looks, it also delivered a needed technology infusion that added standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Both look great on the standard 12.3-inch touchscreen. And you don't just have the option for a more powerful turbocharged engine; the Sorento is also offered as a hybrid and a plug-in hybrid, which are both reviewed separately.

Edmunds spotlight: Getting off-road

For those planning to take their Sorento off the beaten path, Kia offers X-Line and X-Pro versions of the SUV that add all-wheel drive to help get you where you need to go. If you want to go rock crawling or tackle really tough trails, you probably should look elsewhere, but these slightly beefed-up Sorentos should be able to get you down nearly any dirt road to a campsite. The X-Line package can be added to the EX and SX, and is standard on SX Prestige trims. It adds roof rails, more rugged styling and additional ground clearance. The X-Pro can only be ordered on the SX Prestige and it tacks on all-terrain tires, increased towing capacity (up to 4,500 pounds) and upgraded leather.

Competitors to consider

The Kia Sorento doesn't have to look far for its closest competitor: the Hyundai Santa Fe, which comes with a completely different look but many of the same technology upgrades found in the Kia, to go with a similar amount of interior space and an off-road trim (the XRT) of its own. There's also the Mitsubishi Outlander, which is also available with a plug-in hybrid powertrain. And if you don't need three rows, the Kia Sportage is worth checking out too.

The Kia Sorento is an appealing and affordable three-row option as long as you don't plan on using the back row often and are OK sacrificing a bit of cargo space. It offers the same level of amenities as larger rivals at a lower price point, and it comes in two electrified versions (hybrid and plug-in hybrid) if you want to prioritize efficiency.