2025 Kia Sorento
Pros
281-hp turbo delivers quick acceleration
High fuel economy for a three-row SUV
Upscale interior rivals luxury SUVs
Extensive standard safety tech
Cons
Third-row seat is very cramped; best for kids
Minimal cargo room with all seats up
191-hp engine struggles when fully loaded

2025 Kia Sorento

Starting MSRP*
$31,990
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Our Verdict

The 2025 Kia Sorento impresses with refined styling, a tech-rich interior, and solid fuel efficiency, but cramped third-row seating limits its appeal as a full-time family hauler.

Best For

Families who occasionally need 3rd-row seatingvalue-focused buyers

Not Ideal For

Large families needing ample third-row spacethose requiring maximum cargo capacity
Pros
281-hp turbo delivers quick acceleration
High fuel economy for a three-row SUV
Upscale interior rivals luxury SUVs
Extensive standard safety tech
Cons
Third-row seat is very cramped; best for kids
Minimal cargo room with all seats up
191-hp engine struggles when fully loaded

Car Specifications

Trim
Engine
Horsepower
MPG (City/Hwy)
Seating
Cargo
Transimission
MSRP (Starting)
Car Type
About Image

About The 2025 Kia Sorento

The Kia Sorento is a midsize SUV ideal for small families and buyers wanting occasional third-row use in a manageable size. Smaller than the Telluride, it offers two engines: a fuel-efficient 191-hp 2.5L and a peppy 281-hp turbo 2.5L. The upscale interior features optional Nappa leather, dual 12.3-inch displays, and advanced safety tech.

Trims range from budget-friendly to rugged (X-Line/X-Pro), balancing comfort and efficiency. With confident handling, strong tech, and stylish looks, the Sorento suits those who don’t need max cargo or a full-time third row.

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What It Costs to Drive
The 2025 Kia Sorento's annual ownership costs:
Yearly
Monthly
Avg. Yearly Cost
$3,800–$4,900
Fuel
$2,000–$2,300
Insurance
$1,100–$1,500
Maintenance & Repairs
$700–$1,100
Avg. Yearly Cost
$3,800–$4,900
Fuel
$2,000–$2,300
Insurance
$1,100–$1,500
Maintenance & Repairs
$700–$1,100
Assumptions: These estimates consider 15,000 miles/year, $3.50/gal fuel, ~25–28 MPG, average insurance rates, and minimal repairs due to Kia’s 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty.

Trims, Features & Pricing

LX

  • Base Essentials
  • $31,990

Entry-level trim with a 191-hp engine, 8-passenger seating, and key safety features like forward collision warning. Includes cloth seats, manual adjustments, and a standard 12.3" touchscreen with wireless CarPlay/Android Auto. Best for budget-conscious families needing occasional third-row use without frills.

S

  • Added Comfort & Tech
  • $34,890

Adds SynTex upholstery, heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, and a 10-way power driver’s seat. Tech upgrades include built-in navigation, wireless charging, and a larger touchscreen. Ideal for families wanting comfort and style without overspending.

EX

  • Turbo Power & Convenience
  • $38,090

Swaps in a 281-hp turbo engine for better performance while retaining good MPG. Adds a smart power liftgate, 8-way power passenger seat, LED fog lights, and 20-inch wheels. Offers the best blend of price, power, and features—often called the “Best Value.”

SX

  • Premium Tech
  • $41,690

Includes full digital instrument cluster, Kia Digital Key, and advanced camera-based safety features. Heated/ventilated seats, leather-wrapped steering wheel, and alloy pedals enhance comfort and style. Perfect for tech-focused buyers wanting near-luxury features.

X-Line EX AWD

  • Rugged Style
  • $41,790

Takes EX features and adds standard AWD, raised ground clearance, and rugged X-Line styling. Comes with a panoramic sunroof, LED interior lighting, and special wood-look trim. Great for outdoorsy drivers wanting style, utility, and capability.

X-Line SX AWD

  • Adventure + Luxury
  • $43,490

Combines SX’s tech and comfort with X-Line’s rugged look and standard AWD. Includes panoramic sunroof, black exterior cladding, and digital cockpit. The “Stylish Adventurer” trim—luxury meets light off-road readiness.

X-Line SX Prestige AWD

  • Luxury Focused
  • $46,390

Adds ventilated leather seats (front & second row), suede headliner, and 14-way power driver’s seat. Upgrades tech with Bose audio, Full Digital Rearview Mirror, and acoustic glass. Tailored for those who want top-tier luxury in a midsize SUV package.

X-Pro SX Prestige AWD

  • Off-Road Capable
  • $47,390

Builds on SX Prestige with 17-inch wheels, all-terrain tires, center locking diff, and 4,500-lb towing. Enhances off-road traction with specialized terrain modes (mud, sand, snow). Combines full luxury with real off-road ability—Sorento’s most capable trim.

Recommended Trim by AutosMarket

EX Trim

  • Best balance of price, turbo performance, and standard features
  • Power liftgate, captain’s chairs, and great MPG
  • Lower cost than SX Prestige while offering strong value
  • Ideal for buyers who want daily comfort and weekend flexibility
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Recommended Trim Image

A Review From Every Angle

GOOD

4.5/5

1. Exterior

4.0 / 5.0

Bold, rugged, and upscale styling

The Sorento blends rugged SUV cues with modern elegance. New Panthera Metal paint and gloss black accents elevate its look. Trims like X-Line add height and trail presence. LED lighting and 20-inch wheels on higher trims make it stand out.

  • LED headlights/fog lights on most trims
  • X-Line/X-Pro models feature unique bumpers and wheels
  • Black roof rails and trim enhance style

2. Interior

4.0 / 5.0

Upscale cabin with flexible seating

The cabin is stylish and quiet, with SynTex or Nappa leather and available dual 12.3″ screens. The first two rows offer adult comfort, but the third row is tight. Storage is practical, with many USB ports and wireless charging.

  • 6-7 passenger seating configurations
  • Fold-flat 3rd row improves cargo use
  • Ambient lighting and soft-touch materials impress

3. Safety

5.0 / 5.0

Top-tier safety with standard

The Sorento earned IIHS Top Safety Pick with high marks in crash tests. Even base trims include auto emergency braking, lane-keep, and blind-spot features. SX trims add Highway Driving Assist 2.

  • 8 airbags and crash-tested structure
  • 360º camera and blind-view monitor on top trims
  • Strong ADAS package, even on base
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4. Fuel Economy

4.0 / 5.0

Efficient for a 3-row SUV

The 2.5L base engine delivers up to 31 mpg highway, while the turbo averages around 23-26 mpg combined. Both engines run on regular fuel. The Sorento outperforms many V6 competitors.

  • Base FWD: 23/31 mpg
  • Turbo AWD: 20/27 mpg
  • 17.7-gallon tank offers good range

5. Tech & Infotainment

5.0 / 5.0

Dual screens, smart features standard

All trims now have wireless smartphone integration. Upper trims get panoramic dual 12.3-inch displays, Bose audio, digital key, and surround view. Controls are intuitive, with physical knobs for essentials.

  • Wireless CarPlay/Android Auto standard
  • Connected Kia app for remote access
  • Rear Quiet Mode and ambient lighting

6. Performance & Handling

4.0 / 5.0

Turbo punch with smooth cruising

The base engine is slow when loaded, but the turbo version offers strong acceleration (0-60 in ~6.7s). Ride is composed and confident, especially on highway trips. AWD adds traction for all-weather confidence.

  • Turbo: 281 hp, quick acceleration
  • Light, predictable steering feel
  • X-Line/X-Pro offer slight lift and terrain modes

What's New From Last Year?

  • Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto now standard on all trims
  • New Panthera Metal paint replaces Gravity Gray
  • Gloss black Kia badging on X-Line and X-Pro models
  • Updated turbo engine tuning for better low-speed response
  • Standard panoramic sunroof added to X-Line EX AWD
  • SX Prestige trims gain Highway Driving Assist 2 semi-autonomous driving
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New from Last Year Image
Cars Similar to 2025 Kia Sorento
The Sorento occupies an interesting niche as a slightly smaller three-row SUV, so you might also consider both compact and midsize rivals.
2025 Kia Sorento
2025 Volkswagen Atlas
2025 Subaru Ascent
Feature2025 Kia Sorento2025 Volkswagen Atlas2025 Subaru Ascent
Performance
Gas, hybrid, and PHEV all ride smoothly
Turbo-4 and V6 deliver stable drive
Standard AWD with turbo engine for stable drives
Tech & Interior
Dual displays, premium cabin, advanced safety tech
Digital cockpit, easy tech, premium trims
Modern cabin with Starlink and EyeSight tech
Practicality
Three rows, flat-fold seats, flexible cargo space
Spacious 3-row with 96.8 cu ft cargo
3-row, 86.5 cu ft, seats 7–8
Comfort & Space
Room for 7; premium, quiet interior
Spacious interior; ideal for families and trips
Smooth ride, smart layout, comfort-focused
Who's It For?
Families who value fuel economy and tech
Larger families needing space, Euro-style design
Safety-focused families wanting AWD capability
Best Choice For
  • Hybrid options
  • Tech-forward cabin
  • Urban comfort
  • Road trip readiness
  • Max interior room
  • Elegant yet practical
  • All-weather security
  • Family functionality
  • High safety priority
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Frequently Asked Questions

Is the third row usable for adults?
Yes, it is but only for short trips. Consider it to be best suited for kids.
Does the Sorento require premium fuel?
No. Both engines use regular gas.
Can I tow with the Sorento?
Yes. Up to 4,500 lbs with X-Pro trim and tow package.
Is AWD available on all trims?
Optional on most; standard on X-Line and X-Pro.
Is there a hybrid or plug-in option?
Yes, but this review focuses on gasoline trims only.
What warranty does Kia offer?
10-year/100,000-mile powertrain and 5-year/60,000-mile basic coverage.