The Kia Sorento has always been a Goldilocks vehicle. It’s about the size of most 2-row midsize SUVs, making it easy to maneuver even in urban settings. But it has a third row (albeit one not suited for adults often), giving buyers flexibility most midsize SUV owners lack.
With its latest generation that debuted in 2021, the Sorento seriously sharpened its looks. Now it’s getting even better.
For 2024, Kia has given the Sorento a makeover. The company hasn’t released pricing for the updated model. For an idea, the 2023 Sorento starts at $30,090.
No Mechanical Changes
There are no significant mechanical changes. 2024 Sorento buyers will get the same 181-horsepower and 281-horsepower engine options, 8-speed transmission, and available all-wheel drive (AWD) as 2023 Sorento buyers. The Sorento is also available as a hybrid and plug-in hybrid.
The SUV’s body has been given a facelift, and its interior has new technologies to offer.
Big Cosmetic Changes
Its grille is dramatically larger, giving the vehicle a new sense of presence. Wider character lines in the hood draw back from its corners, creating a more muscled look. The headlights and daytime running lights are now stacked vertically beside the grille rather than horizontally along its top line. All the changes serve to emphasize width and make it look more substantial even though the SUV’s dimensions haven’t meaningfully changed.
The same is true inside, where central air vents in the dashboard have gone from vertical to horizontal.
The two screens are mounted as if they are one, but a faster processor drives them. “This advanced system processes faster and in higher fidelity, with frequently used Quick Controls conveniently accessible with a swipe on the screen,” Kia says. It’s now capable of receiving over-the-air updates, which might save owners a few trips to the dealership for upgrades over the years.
Owners can use smartphones as keys, Kia says. The smart cruise control system uses machine learning “to adapt to and match the driver’s driving style with certain inputs like accelerating and braking patterns.”
New X-Pro Trail Model
The X-Line light off-road trim returns. But 2024 Sorento buyers will have the option of a more capable trail trim, too. The Sorento X-Pro rides on 17-inch wheels and standard BF Goodrich all-terrain tires, which offer more sidewall to absorb bumps on the trail.
“With increased towing capacity up to 4,000 lbs., the X-Pro can tow a travel trailer for an elevated camping adventure,” Kia says.
The X-Line and X-Pro models get new interior color options, including Olive Brown and Sage.
The 2024 Kia Sorento is slated to go on sale in the first quarter of 2024. The hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants will arrive later as 2025 models.
