2024 Kia Sorento Hybrid Expert Review
Reviewed by Billy Rehbock
Kia's fuel-efficient midsize SUV won't be getting a big upgrade just yet. The Sorento Hybrid carries over into 2024 with minor changes, meaning that we'll have to wait another year before the hybrid hauler receives a midcycle update. Kia first introduced the fourth-generation Sorento lineup for 2021, so the three-row SUV is due for a reworking soon. Rivals include other midsize hybrid SUVs such as the Toyota Highlander Hybrid and Ford Explorer Hybrid.
What's New
- Gravity Blue paint offered with Navy interior
- Navy interior receives gray headliner
- Runway Red paint discontinued
What We Think
The 2024 Kia Sorento Hybrid is almost entirely a carryover model, which means it'll remain the likeable and efficient SUV it was last year. The midsize hybrid SUV exhibits good body control and brake feel. However, its drivetrain provides mediocre acceleration, a tradeoff for thrifty fuel efficiency. In our road testing, we've noted that the Sorento Hybrid becomes increasingly poky when the hybrid battery depletes.
Although the Sorento Hybrid's interior is upscale for a vehicle within this segment, the third row can be cramped for adults. It's a shame that Kia hasn't added seating for more than six passengers at this point in the model's lifecycle. Still, the Sorento Hybrid comes equipped with a strong suite of standard features, even if that area won't improve until there's a more thorough refresh. We'll welcome the global model's changes with open arms if they're eventually confirmed for future versions of the Sorento Hybrid.
Performance and MPGs
Kia retains the Sorento Hybrid's existing drivetrain for the 2024 model year. A 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-four, an electric motor, and a six-speed automatic transmission serve as the SUV's standard equipment. Total output measures 227 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. Front-wheel drive is the default and all-wheel drive is available. In our testing, a Sorento EX Hybrid FWD made the sprint from 0 to 60 mph in 8.4 seconds. The EPA rates the 2024 Sorento Hybrid FWD at 39/35 mpg city/highway while the AWD model returns 36/33 mpg.
Kia Sorento Hybrid vs. Plug-in Hybrid
Both the Kia Sorento Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid models make use of an electric motor for fuel efficiency and propulsion, but they differ in terms of output and efficiency. The Sorento Hybrid produces 227 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque from its 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-four and electric motor combination. Driving range is rated at an incredible 655 miles for FWD models and 602 miles for AWD versions.
The Sorento Plug-in Hybrid comes equipped with the same gasoline engine and a more powerful electric motor. Total output is rated at 261 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. In our testing, a Sorento Plug-in Hybrid accelerated from 0-60 mph in 7.4 seconds, making it a full second quicker than the standard hybrid model. Combined driving range is just 460 miles, but the more important figure for a PHEV is all-electric range, which the EPA rates at 32 miles. The Sorento Plug-in Hybrid is a good option for buyers who can charge at home. Otherwise, it's probably best to stick with the Sorento Hybrid, which won't need to visit a fueling station very often.
Cargo Space and Interior Room
The Kia Sorento Hybrid offers competitive second row legroom, although third-row space won't be comfortable for most adults. Cargo volume is down compared to larger three-row SUVs.
Safety Features
All of the Kia Sorento Hybrid's active safety technology carries over into the 2024 model year. Kia's Drive Wise suite makes a series of features standard, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic monitoring, lane keeping, adaptive cruise control, automatic high-beams, and parking sensors. A 360-degree camera and a rear parking collision avoidance system are available.
Technology
Kia equips the Sorento Hybrid with a standard 10.3-inch touchscreen with standard Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth audio, and satellite radio. A six-speaker audio system is standard while a 12-speaker setup from Bose is available. Other standard tech includes LED automatic headlights and foglights, keyless entry, remote start, push-button start, auto-dimming rearview mirror, illuminated vanity mirrors, a wireless smartphone charger, powered driver's seat, heated front seats, and a dual-zone climate control system with second-row vents. Stepping up to the SX Prestige trim adds rain-sensing wipers, power-folding side mirrors, a power front passenger seat, ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. Optional equipment includes a panoramic sunroof with a power shade and LED interior lighting.
Recommended Trim
Kia offers the 2024 Sorento Hybrid in two trims: EX and SX Prestige. We think the entry-level model is the better buy as the standard equipment list is impressive. Pricing with destination starts just over $38,000 with FWD and just over $40,000 with AWD. We'd recommend stepping up to the AWD variant for better all-weather capability. Otherwise, the Sorento Hybrid EX should offer plenty of equipment to keep passengers safe, comfortable, and entertained.
