The 2021 Kia Sorento crossover SUV strikes out in a new styling direction, and brings hybrid and plug-in models along for the adventure.
PROS More expressive Available hybrid powertrains Bigger interior More square inches of touchscreen
CONS What’s with the door tooth? Third-row seat’s very, very small More noise More hard plastic in the cabin
The Sorento is all new for 2021, with a starting price that's $2450 higher than last year. Its boxier proportions and bolder styling mark a stark departure from the curvier and softer appearance of the outgoing Sorento. In addition to riding on an all-new platform that's bigger inside and out, the new Sorento adds a hybrid powertrain as well as an eventual plug-in variant.We like the EX trim level. It's pricier than the bottom two models, but it comes standard with the more powerful 281-hp turbo-four. It also has nicer amenities than the S trim below it that include leatherette upholstery, heated front seats, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, remote start, and snazzier styling such as 18-inch wheels and black exterior accents.
The 2020 Kia Sorento comes with front wheel drive, and all wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 8-speed shiftable automatic, 6-speed shiftable automatic.Lightly refreshed bumpers and exterior lighting.EX Sport and SX Limited trims dropped.
PROS Convenient size should fit many families Ample feature content for the money Stylish and quiet interior Extra-long warranty coverage
CONS Less cargo space than other three-row models Third-row seat is strictly for kids Lackluster acceleration even from the V6 engine
The 2020 Kia Sorento skimps on third-row seating, but in all other respects it’s a more than respectable crossover SUV.
Pros Upmarket feel inside and out Terrific ride quality Responsive, natural steering Strong value and warranty Solid, quiet feel
Cons Second row sits too low Don’t bother with the base engine Mediocre fuel economy
Changes are minimal on the 2020 Kia Sorento. There are modest styling updates front and rear, and Kia has consolidated the trim levels and packaging on V-6 models. The ritzy SX Limited and its lofty price are gone, but the one-step-down SX provides most of the important content. The standard navigation system on SX models now includes an integrated modem that allows you to control certain vehicle functions remotely and can notify you if you inadvertently leave a kid in the back seat.
Pros Simple interior layout, agreeable driving experience, seating for seven in a mid-size body.
Cons Difficult-to-access third row, numb steering, some safety features limited to upper trims.