History/Overview
2020 marks the Kia Sorento's fifth year on the market since a 2016 redesign. This mid-size model offers seven-passenger seating, creating some overlap with the newer Telluride.
What's New / Key Changes from Last Year
Kia appears to be working up to a Sorento redesign. It has trimmed the lineup by eliminating last year's front-wheel drive option and limiting four-cylinder engine availability to the most basic trim level.
Available Trims
For 2020, Sorento trims are LX, LX+, LX+ V6, EX, EX+ and SX. LX and LX+ are the only two offered with a 2.4L four-cylinder engine and six-speed transmission. All others get a V6 and an eight-speed gearbox. All Sorento models are AWD.
Standard Features
On the outside, the LX trim starts out with 17-inch alloy wheels, automatic on/off headlights, LED positioning lights, a windshield wiper de-icer, solar glass, heated side mirrors, chrome door handles, and a rear spoiler.
Inside are split-folding second-row seats, a height-adjustable driver's seat, heated front seats, a tilt-and-telescopic steering wheel, a sunglasses holder, lighted vanity mirrors, a rear centre armrest, air conditioning, a 7.0-inch infotainment display, a trip computer, a six-speaker stereo with USB input, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, cruise control, drive modes, keyless entry, and power windows.
The LX+ package brings gloss grille trim, a 10-way power driver's seat, a heated steering wheel, leather-trimmed steering wheel and shifter, dual-zone automatic climate control, wireless smartphone charging, passive keyless entry, blind spot monitoring, forward collision warning with city-speed automatic braking, and rear cross traffic alert.
LX+ V6 brings roof rails, trailer pre-wiring, seven-passenger seating, and rear-seat ventilation ducts.
EX's additions are 18-inch wheels, fog lights, a sound-deadening windshield, a panoramic sunroof, power-folding side mirrors, leather seating, a 14-way driver's seat with memory, a power front passenger seat, heated second-row seats, a cargo cover and luggage net, a 110-volt power outlet, a hands-free power tailgate, and LED interior lighting.
EX+ trim adds navigation in an 8.0-inch infotainment display, an upgraded sound system, satellite radio, radar cruise control, UVO connected car services, an electric parking brake, blind spot collision avoidance, lane keep assist, drive attention alert, all-speed forward collision mitigation braking, rear cross traffic collision avoidance assist, and 360-degree exterior camera views.
Finally, Sorento SX gets 19-inch wheels, adaptive LED headlights with automatic high beams, LED positioning lights, LED taillights and fog lights, sound-deadening front door glass, a stainless steel exhaust tip, chrome roof rails, premium leather upholstery, ventilated front seats, rear door sun shades, premium interior trim, and lighted front door scuff plates.
Fuel Economy
Kia's fuel consumption estimates are 11.2/9.0 L/100 km (city/highway) for Sorento four-cylinder/AWD models, and 12.3/9.5 L/100 km for V6/AWD versions.
Competition
Kia intends the Sorento to compete with both five- and seven-seat models in the mid-size crossover class. That means it does double (or triple) duty against vehicles like the Honda Passport and Pilot; the Ford Edge, Flex and Explorer; Chevrolet's Blazer and Traverse, the Subaru Outback and Ascent, and Nissan's Murano and Pathfinder.
Other competitors are the Toyota Highlander, the GMC Acadia, Mazda's CX-9, the Hyundai Santa Fe, Volkswagen's Atlas, and the Dodge Durango.
