Performance
The base engine in the 2026 Sorento LX and S trims is a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder that produces 191 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque, which is mated to a standard 8-speed automatic transmission. Stepping up to the EX and above gets you the same engine, but turbocharged to produce 281 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. This upgrade also includes an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission for faster and smoother shifts.
While the base trims can tow up to 2,000 lbs when properly equipped, adding the Towing Package to the SX and higher models gives drivers the ability to tow up to 4,500 lbs when properly equipped. Front-wheel drive is standard, but all-wheel drive is available as an option on EX and higher trim levels.
Buyers looking for an SUV that is comfortable, practical, and can still dare to go off-road should look no further than the X-Line and X-Pro trim levels, as they feature a center locking differential, special skid plates to protect underneath the SUV, 20-inch gloss-black wheels, and special X-Line badges. The X-Pro, on the other hand, features 17-inch wheels with larger sidewalls and BF Goodrich all-terrain tires, providing even more effective off-road driving. Towing is also increased to 4,500 lbs for the X-Pro over the X-Line.
X-Line and X-Pro models also offer an extra 0.2 inches of ground clearance, at 8.2 inches, to ensure the Sorento has no problems in most driving situations, both on main roads and off-road.
Drivers can expect an EPA-estimated 23 mpg in city driving and 31 mpg on the highway with an average of 26 mpg between both driving cycles.
Exterior
With its large grille that meets pronounced and stylish LED daytime running lights and LED projector headlights, the new Sorento is a treat for the eyes. Around back, you will find stacked LED taillights, a unique distinction from the SUV’s larger siblings, the Telluride and EV9.
Depending on the trim level you purchase, there are a couple of different exterior features that are unique to each model. Base models have a silver accent that flows under and along the side of the front grille, while the more off-road-ready trims feature a straight, gloss-black grille in the lower fascia. Moving along the sides of the Sorento, buyers will find silver roof racks in regular models with black racks in the X-Line and X-Pro vehicles.
The base wheel sizes range from 17 inches all the way to 20 inches, again, depending on the trim level. For more information on the standard wheels for each trim, please refer to the Trim Levels section below.
Interior
Inside is where you’ll spend most of your time, and Kia gave buyers an interior that punches well above its weight. Designers wanted to create a sense of openness in the cabin, so they used lots of horizontal designs for things like the air vents and buttons.
While the steering wheel is now wrapped in leather for all trim levels, the seating surfaces are standard cloth or optional, environmentally conscious SynTex vegan leather-like trim, available as heated or heated and ventilated, depending on the model.
From the S trim and above, buyers can option a panoramic sunroof that allows the cabin to feel even more open and spacious. Rear passengers will love the view of the sky as you are driving along.
Technology
Even though the Sorento is the slightly smaller sibling to the Telluride, Kia didn’t skimp on the tech features. Like the Telluride, the Sorento offers an ultra-unique panoramic curved display with dual 12.3-inch displays as optional equipment. Don’t worry if the higher trims are out of your price range, though, as a 4.3-inch digital cluster display and a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment display are standard equipment.
Standard on the LX are five USB charging ports, which is bumped to seven in the S trim and above.
Regardless of the trim level you select, every 2026 Kia Sorento comes standard with wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth phone connectivity. The Sorento also takes advantage of Digital Key 2.0, which allows you to lock, unlock, and start your vehicle from the comfort of your smartphone using Near Field Communication (NFC) technology.
Safety
Kia has made sure that drivers and passengers in the Sorento are protected and taken care of with standard Driver Assistance Technology that includes Auto Emergency Braking with Pedestrian, Cyclist, and Junction Turning Detection, Lane Keeping and Following Assist, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist, Blind-Spot Detection, Driver Attention Warning with Leading Vehicle Departure Alert, Safe Exit Assist, and a Rear Occupant Alert.
Higher trim levels further add front, rear, and side Parking Sensors, Navigation-Based Smart Cruise Control with Stop and Go, Curve, Highway Driving Assist, and Auto Emergency Braking Technology with Evasive Steering Assist and Junction Crossing Detection.
All models come standard with nine airbags, including side airbags for the second row.
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has not yet tested the 2026 Sorento. The agency did award the 2024 model with its coveted Top Safety Pick award. Since the 2026 is identical to the 2024 model, it would not be surprising if the Sorento retains the title of Top Safety Pick.
