With more powertrain options and a footprint that’s smaller, the 2022 Kia Sorento is an attractive substitute for the larger Kia Telluride. Both Kia models are beautiful and have 3 rows, but adults won’t want to spend a lot of time in the Sorento’s far-back seats, and when those seats are up they decrease their cargo capacity. Keep the third row packed, however, and its amazingly appointed cabin is now a comfortable place for a small family. Unlike the Telluride, the Sorento comes as a hybrid or plug-in hybrid, which helps increase fuel efficiency. No matter what’s providing the drive, the Kia has a nice ride and satisfying handling characteristics.
A plug-in-hybrid model joins the Sorento lineup for the year 2022. Its powertrain combines a turbocharged four-cylinder and six-speed automatic transmission, featuring an electric motor for a total system production of 261 horsepower. All-wheel drive comes standard, and Kia says that the plug-in Sorento has a combined fuel-economy rating of 79 MPGe and an electric-only range of thirty-two miles. While we don’t know how much the PHEV variant costs, it’ll be offered in two top-tier trims: SX and SX-P.
We like the EX trim level. It’s costlier than the bottom two models, but it comes standard featuring the more powerful 281-hp turbo four. In addition, it has better advantages than the S trim features leatherette upholstery, heated seats, blind-spot monitoring, remote start, rear cross-traffic alert, as well as snazzier styling such as 18-inch wheels and black accents. Featuring all-wheel drive with the EX trim costs an extra $3700, which is $1900 more than the previous model year. But, the upgrade comes with some features from the X-Line appearance package that features a 1.0-inch higher ride height, in addition to a bridge-type roof, 20-inch wheels, and other exterior details.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The Sorento has a large selection of engine options and comes with front- or all-wheel drive. A 191-hp 2.5-liter inline-four-cylinder engine is the standard and a 281-hp turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder is possible too. Both feature an eight-speed automatic transmission, but the hybrid model uses a six-speed automatic. We drove atop SX trim with the turbo four and appreciated its significant thrust, but we hoped the powertrain was more responsive off the line. The same model delivered great handling, a greatly isolated ride, and nice brake-pedal feedback. The eco-friendly Sorento hybrid comes in the combination of a turbo 1.6-liter four-cylinder gas engine and a 44.0-kW electric motor that generates 227 horsepower. The plug-in version of the hybrid comes with the same engine and transmission, however, it makes a combined 261 horsepower and has a better 66.9-kW electric motor, and is all-wheel drive only. When equipped with the towing package, the Sorento can carry up to 3500 pounds.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
Inside, the Sorento has a compelling layout, great materials, and nice build quality. The dashboard can come with a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and a 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The rest of the design features ambient lighting and intricately stitched surfaces on the door panels and seat inserts. A large variety of cubby storage spots and cup holders also fill out the console. Along with a third row, its second-row bench can be changed for a pair of captain’s chairs. Compared with the larger Telluride, the Sorento’s far-back seats are not comfortable for anyone but small children.
All trim levels of the Kia Sorento are wonderful in their own way. We hope that this article has helped you know the car better.
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